Heresy

In 1576, twenty-eight year old Fra Giordano Bruno has been caught reading a book not allowed in any monastery, and as a result will likely end up being tortured by the Inquisition.  As a monk, if he runs away he will be excommunicated.  What choice does he have?

By 1583 Bruno was in London in the company of his good friend, Sir Philip Sidney.  Bruno is in search of a book that delves into the mysteries of the universe.  He hopes to find it in Oxford.  Bruno is also employed by Walshingham, Queen Elizabeth’s Secretary of State and spymaster.  Walshingham has a job for Bruno to do in Oxford.

At his first meal with members of the teaching community of Oxford he learns the intrigues of the current staffing.  He also meets the intriguing and intelligent Sophia Underhill, daughter of the rector.

In the following early morning hours, Bruno is awoken to the painful cries of a man being terrorised.  Fortunately, one of the students has a long bow and kills the dog attacking the man.  Unfortunately, it is too late for the man.  Why did this happen?  The rector wants to keep the idea of a murder under cover and make it appear to have been an accident, until it can be proven otherwise.  Others seem to also want to cover things up.  Bruno is under threat because he is a foreigner so, he should keep his knowledge to himself.

Bruno’s debate with Rector Underhill does not go as he hoped it would.  Then two days later the new sub rector is killed.  Bruno realises that the method of killing is intended to mimic the killing of Saint Sebastian.  What is going on?  Evidence left at the scene points to one of the students as the killer, but Bruno thinks that it is set up to look that way.  The rector asks Bruno to conduct an investigation.

Where will that investigation lead Bruno?  How many more deaths will occur, and could Bruno be one of the victims?  Author S. J. Parris has written a rollicking good historical novel, which leaves the reader wanting to know what lies on the next page.  A thoroughly enjoyable read.