The King's Evil

James Marwood has just been told by Lady Quincy that her stepson, Edward Alderley is intent on killing his cousin, Catherine Lovett.  She wants Marwood to warn Catherine.

Lady Quincy also wants Marwood to arrange a visitation with the king for her African page who has scrofula, also known as the King’s Evil.  The king is apparently able to cure it by simply touching the afflicted person.

A few days later, by order of the king, Marwood is assigned to investigate the death of Alderley.  He had been found dead in the bottom of the Duke of Clarendon’s well.  Clarendon is the father-in-law of the Duke of York who is brother to the king and heir apparent.  Marwood immediately wonders if Catherine had anything to do with the death.

While Marwood begins his investigation, Chiffinch, Marwood’s superior, receives a letter accusing Catherine of the killing of Alderley.  Chiffinch had sent officers to arrest her, but she was gone.  Chiffinch is sure of her guilt.

Marwood is sure that he is being followed; has seen a mysterious man a few times in his vicinity.  He is also surprised when he discovers that Lady Quincy recently had business dealings with Alderley.  What in the devil’s name is going on?

Marwood receives another surprise when he is ordered by the king to attend Lady Quincy when she travels to Cambridge.  He is to gather information on what she does and who she sees.  The king also wants information on the innocence of Catherine, should it exist.

When they get to Cambridge, Lady Quincy informs Marwood that they are there to retrieve a young girl, however they must go out into the Fens to get her.  Who is this little girl?  And what role does she play?

Marwood has numerous trials ahead of him before he can find the answers to these questions.  There will be treachery, double crosses and self sacrifice.  Author Andrew Taylor‘s historical thriller is an excellent read, and hard to put down.