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Sophia de Wolfe #1
Traitor’s Legacy
THE INSTANT
SUNDAY TIMES
BESTSELLER
INTRODUCING AN INCREDIBLE NEW SERIES FROM THE NO.1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING MASTER OF HISTORICAL CRIME, S. J. PARRIS
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
'Sophia is a dazzling heroine, and the world of late Elizabethan England brimful of plot and conspiracy, is vividly and thrillingly brought to life' LAURA SHEPHERD-ROBINSON
'Right from the intriguing opening pages everything Parris layers into this Elizabethan crime drama screams bestselling series' OBSERVER
'A new historical crime from S. J. Parris is always cause for celebration but she really has excelled herself with Traitor's Legacy' ANDREW TAYLOR
'A writer who repeatedly proves that she is one of the most stylish of historical crime practitioners' FINANCIAL TIMES
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
England, 1598. Queen Elizabeth’s successor remains unnamed. The country teeters on a knife edge.
When a young heiress is found murdered at the theatre, the Queen’s spymaster Robert Cecil calls upon former agent Sophia de Wolfe to investigate.
A cryptic note found on the dead girl’s body connects to Sophia’s previous life as a spy, and her quest soon takes her into dangerous waters. Powerful enemies emerge, among them the Earl of the Queen’s favourite courtier and a man of ruthless ambition.
This is a murder that reaches directly into the heart of the court. And Sophia is concealing a deep-buried secret of her own. She must uncover the truth before her past threatens to destroy her.
Traitor's Legacy was a Sunday Times bestseller w/c 12-05-2025
INTRODUCING AN INCREDIBLE NEW SERIES FROM THE NO.1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING MASTER OF HISTORICAL CRIME, S. J. PARRIS
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
'Sophia is a dazzling heroine, and the world of late Elizabethan England brimful of plot and conspiracy, is vividly and thrillingly brought to life' LAURA SHEPHERD-ROBINSON
'Right from the intriguing opening pages everything Parris layers into this Elizabethan crime drama screams bestselling series' OBSERVER
'A new historical crime from S. J. Parris is always cause for celebration but she really has excelled herself with Traitor's Legacy' ANDREW TAYLOR
'A writer who repeatedly proves that she is one of the most stylish of historical crime practitioners' FINANCIAL TIMES
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
England, 1598. Queen Elizabeth’s successor remains unnamed. The country teeters on a knife edge.
When a young heiress is found murdered at the theatre, the Queen’s spymaster Robert Cecil calls upon former agent Sophia de Wolfe to investigate.
A cryptic note found on the dead girl’s body connects to Sophia’s previous life as a spy, and her quest soon takes her into dangerous waters. Powerful enemies emerge, among them the Earl of the Queen’s favourite courtier and a man of ruthless ambition.
This is a murder that reaches directly into the heart of the court. And Sophia is concealing a deep-buried secret of her own. She must uncover the truth before her past threatens to destroy her.
Traitor's Legacy was a Sunday Times bestseller w/c 12-05-2025
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First published January 1, 2025
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About the author
S.J. Parris
28 books984 followersPseudonym for author Stephanie Merritt
S.J. Parris began reviewing books for national newspapers while she was reading English literature at Queens' College, Cambridge. After graduating, she went on to become Deputy Literary Editor of The Observer in 1999. She continues to work as a feature writer and critic for the Guardian and the Observer and from 2007-2008 she curated and produced the Talks and Debates program on issues in contemporary arts and politics at London's Soho Theatre. She has appeared as a panelist on various Radio Four shows and on BBC2's Newsnight Review, and is a regular chair and presenter at the Hay Festival and the National Theatre. She has been a judge for the Costa Biography Award, the Orange New Writing Award and the Perrier Comedy Award. She lives in the south of England with her son.
S.J. Parris began reviewing books for national newspapers while she was reading English literature at Queens' College, Cambridge. After graduating, she went on to become Deputy Literary Editor of The Observer in 1999. She continues to work as a feature writer and critic for the Guardian and the Observer and from 2007-2008 she curated and produced the Talks and Debates program on issues in contemporary arts and politics at London's Soho Theatre. She has appeared as a panelist on various Radio Four shows and on BBC2's Newsnight Review, and is a regular chair and presenter at the Hay Festival and the National Theatre. She has been a judge for the Costa Biography Award, the Orange New Writing Award and the Perrier Comedy Award. She lives in the south of England with her son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
February 11, 2025
Elizabethan London 1598. Queen Elizabeth’s successor remains unnamed. The country teeters on a knife edge.
It’s against this backdrop that a young heiress is found murdered. The Queen’s spymaster Robert Cecil calls upon former agent Sophia de Wolfe to investigate.
The girl was found in the remains of a theatre, with a cryptic note which appears to refer to Sophia’s former life as a spy. Sophia is shocked that someone would have this information. Finding out who wrote the note will be high on her list of priorities, as is her quest to find the murderer. Her investigations will set her against some of the most powerful men in London, including the Queen’s favourite courtier, the Earl of Essex. This man is ruthless in his ambitions, and no one will stand in his way.
However, Sophia is also harbouring another secret that could be used against her, that is unless she can unearth the killer before her past comes back to destroy her.
This is the first in a new historical crime thriller series set in the time of Elizabeth I, and what a great start it is. Sophia makes for an interesting protagonist, one with many secrets, but she’s highly intelligent, and can certainly look after herself. Expect secrets, lies and conspiracies, not to mention twists and turns. It also gives lots of insight into the workings of society in this turbulent period in history, and though fictional, there are real people included too. A compelling read.
*Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins Uk, Hemlock Press, for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
It’s against this backdrop that a young heiress is found murdered. The Queen’s spymaster Robert Cecil calls upon former agent Sophia de Wolfe to investigate.
The girl was found in the remains of a theatre, with a cryptic note which appears to refer to Sophia’s former life as a spy. Sophia is shocked that someone would have this information. Finding out who wrote the note will be high on her list of priorities, as is her quest to find the murderer. Her investigations will set her against some of the most powerful men in London, including the Queen’s favourite courtier, the Earl of Essex. This man is ruthless in his ambitions, and no one will stand in his way.
However, Sophia is also harbouring another secret that could be used against her, that is unless she can unearth the killer before her past comes back to destroy her.
This is the first in a new historical crime thriller series set in the time of Elizabeth I, and what a great start it is. Sophia makes for an interesting protagonist, one with many secrets, but she’s highly intelligent, and can certainly look after herself. Expect secrets, lies and conspiracies, not to mention twists and turns. It also gives lots of insight into the workings of society in this turbulent period in history, and though fictional, there are real people included too. A compelling read.
*Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins Uk, Hemlock Press, for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
May 21, 2025
It’s been several years since Sophia de Wolfe was in the employ of Francis Walsingham, Queen Elizabeth’s spymaster. On her retirement from the trade, Walsingham had arranged a marriage for her which had turned out to be happy. But her husband has since died and she is a wealthy widow with time on her hands. She spends some of her time and money supporting The Lord Chamberlain’s Men, a theatre troupe famous for the plays of their resident playwright, William Shakespeare. But Sophia’s interest is one of the young boy actors, Tobie, who is her illegitimate son though he doesn’t know it. Walsingham is also now dead, so Sophia is surprised to be summoned by his successor, Sir Robert Cecil. He tells her that the body of a young girl has been found, murdered, and she had a note on her body which was written in the cipher that used to be exclusively used by Sophia in her spying days. He sets her the task of finding out who could have got hold of the cipher but the investigation soon becomes more personal when young Tobie is arrested on suspicion of the murder. Now Sophia must find the real murderer to save her son…
I’ve popped in and out of Parris’ Giordano Bruno series over the years, in which Sophia occasionally appeared (as Sophia Underhill), but I’ve not been consistent enough to know her full back story. However, on the whole I found this one, which is being billed as the first in a new series, stands on its own merits – only occasionally did I feel I wanted to know more, like about who her lover and Tobie’s father had been. I had often wondered what Parris would do when she reached the time when Bruno was executed in real life. Being true to history is always one of her strengths, so I assumed she wouldn’t keep him alive. Transferring over to Sophia is a good idea, giving a sense of continuity to existing fans while allowing new fans to jump aboard. It also allows her to create an enjoyable new set of who will doubtless be recurring characters in future novels – Tobie, the Chamberlain’s Men, Sophia’s household staff, and another playwright, also a real person, Anthony Munday, who is in love with Sophia.
The plot in this one is very strong, and not bogged down in famous events of the time, which has sometimes been a weakness of her books in the past for me. The victim is a thirteen-year-old girl, Agnes Lovell, the orphaned ward of Sir Thomas North. Sir Thomas planned to marry her to his son as soon as she reached her majority, which would have been on her fourteenth birthday, so that the family could retain her valuable inheritance. But Agnes had fallen in love, Juliet-style, with young Tobie, a willing Romeo. As Sophia begins to delve into the mystery, she uncovers various possible suspects and motives for the murder, some of them leading all the way to the highest in the land. Justice in Elizabethan England works differently for those in high places and Sophia knows that she can’t make accusations that are more likely to lead to her own incarceration than Tobie’s freedom.
The book is peppered with real people, like Cecil, the Earl of Essex, Shakespeare, etc. Again one of the weaknesses of her previous series for me was that her main character was a real well-documented person from history, and I felt she sometimes strayed too far from his life and probable character to keep it credible. (This was a minority view – the books are highly popular with a loyal following, so I accept that my opinion is entirely subjective.) In this one, however, Sophia is fully fictional, while all the real people play more minor, secondary roles. This works much better, I feel, and gives her more scope to be inventive, which she takes advantage of here to the full.
I found it a slow starter which is fairly common in the first of a new series, when all the new characters and their connections have to be laid out before the main story can get going. But once it got into the plot properly, I found it increasingly gripping. Parris doesn’t have her characters speak in faux Elizabethan English thankfully, but nor does she make them overly anachronistic. Sophia is undoubtedly a strong woman with a will of her own, but she does stick more or less to the conventions of her time, and she doesn’t battle the bad guys all on her own. She does object to the subordinate position of girls and women, especially with regards to them being bought and sold in the marriage mart, but she accepts that it is as it is – she’s not a secret suffragette, though she would probably like to be.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one. The new characters all have plenty of room for development and are a likeable group, and Sophia herself has matured into a more believable character than I remember from her earlier outings. I’m very much looking forward to reading about her future adventures as the world moves towards the end of the Tudor era and into the Stuarts.
NB This book was provided for review by the publisher, HarperCollins via NetGalley.
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I’ve popped in and out of Parris’ Giordano Bruno series over the years, in which Sophia occasionally appeared (as Sophia Underhill), but I’ve not been consistent enough to know her full back story. However, on the whole I found this one, which is being billed as the first in a new series, stands on its own merits – only occasionally did I feel I wanted to know more, like about who her lover and Tobie’s father had been. I had often wondered what Parris would do when she reached the time when Bruno was executed in real life. Being true to history is always one of her strengths, so I assumed she wouldn’t keep him alive. Transferring over to Sophia is a good idea, giving a sense of continuity to existing fans while allowing new fans to jump aboard. It also allows her to create an enjoyable new set of who will doubtless be recurring characters in future novels – Tobie, the Chamberlain’s Men, Sophia’s household staff, and another playwright, also a real person, Anthony Munday, who is in love with Sophia.
The plot in this one is very strong, and not bogged down in famous events of the time, which has sometimes been a weakness of her books in the past for me. The victim is a thirteen-year-old girl, Agnes Lovell, the orphaned ward of Sir Thomas North. Sir Thomas planned to marry her to his son as soon as she reached her majority, which would have been on her fourteenth birthday, so that the family could retain her valuable inheritance. But Agnes had fallen in love, Juliet-style, with young Tobie, a willing Romeo. As Sophia begins to delve into the mystery, she uncovers various possible suspects and motives for the murder, some of them leading all the way to the highest in the land. Justice in Elizabethan England works differently for those in high places and Sophia knows that she can’t make accusations that are more likely to lead to her own incarceration than Tobie’s freedom.
The book is peppered with real people, like Cecil, the Earl of Essex, Shakespeare, etc. Again one of the weaknesses of her previous series for me was that her main character was a real well-documented person from history, and I felt she sometimes strayed too far from his life and probable character to keep it credible. (This was a minority view – the books are highly popular with a loyal following, so I accept that my opinion is entirely subjective.) In this one, however, Sophia is fully fictional, while all the real people play more minor, secondary roles. This works much better, I feel, and gives her more scope to be inventive, which she takes advantage of here to the full.
I found it a slow starter which is fairly common in the first of a new series, when all the new characters and their connections have to be laid out before the main story can get going. But once it got into the plot properly, I found it increasingly gripping. Parris doesn’t have her characters speak in faux Elizabethan English thankfully, but nor does she make them overly anachronistic. Sophia is undoubtedly a strong woman with a will of her own, but she does stick more or less to the conventions of her time, and she doesn’t battle the bad guys all on her own. She does object to the subordinate position of girls and women, especially with regards to them being bought and sold in the marriage mart, but she accepts that it is as it is – she’s not a secret suffragette, though she would probably like to be.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one. The new characters all have plenty of room for development and are a likeable group, and Sophia herself has matured into a more believable character than I remember from her earlier outings. I’m very much looking forward to reading about her future adventures as the world moves towards the end of the Tudor era and into the Stuarts.
NB This book was provided for review by the publisher, HarperCollins via NetGalley.
www.fictionfanblog.wordpress.com
May 29, 2025
Traitor’s Legacy is the first in a new series featuring Sophia de Wolfe, former agent of Queen Elizabeth’s spymaster, Sir Francis Walsingham. We discover pretty quickly that Sophia has had an eventful life including a previous marriage, an illegitimate son given up for adoption and coming under suspicion of murder. In fact, so detailed is her back story I found myself checking that I hadn’t missed an earlier book in the series. That is until I realised she had featured (then going by the name Sophia Underhill) in some of the books in the author’s Giordano Bruno series which I read years ago. However, although new readers might find them wishing for more detail about her colourful past, it does mean you don’t need to have read the Giordano Bruno books to enjoy this one.
Sophia is now a widow with a stepson who resents the fact she has inherited her late husband’s wealth. Her stepson is a drunkard, a gambler and a spendthrift with a potential for violence. Although Sophia’s was a marriage of convenience arranged by Walsingham to ensure her safety, she developed a real affection for her late husband Humphrey, often recalling his wise and supportive advice. Having said that, widowhood has given Sophia a certain freedom. ‘One of the great advantages of being a widow with her own money is that, for the first time in her life, she doesn’t have to submit to any man telling her what she can and can’t do.’
Our first encounter with Sophia is during a duel with her fencing master, so we know from the off she’s someone to be reckoned with. She’s resourceful, intrepid and resolute. ‘Here you are, like some kind of truffle-hound, determined to sniff out the truth and dig it up.’ Sophia has faced many obstacles in her life but has never given up trying to overcome them. ‘She has been raging all her life, for as long as she can remember, at one thing or another (usually the actions of men.’
Following the discovery of the dead girl’s body, Sophia is reunited with Anthony Munday, now a playwright for Richard Burbage’s theatre company, but formerly a pursuivant hunting Catholic priests smuggled into the country. This involved him working for Richard Topcliffe, notorious for his brutal interrogations. Munday now has a wife and children but his attachment to Sophia means that when her connection to the death of the girl becomes very personal he can’t help but get involved. I enjoyed the tease of the relationship between Sophia and Anthony. They’re certainly comrades but could they become something more to each other?
The plot revolves around the question of what was the motive for the murder? Was it an act of jealous rage by a spurned lover? Was it for financial gain given the dead girl was a wealthy heiress? Or was there a political angle to the murder? Answering those questions means taking on the rich and powerful, and Sophia and Anthony both find themselves in risky situations as a result. As she says at one point, ‘I feel with every step we’re tangling ourselves deeper in something that can’t end well’.
The book is set in 1598 towards the end of Elizabeth’s reign when the question of the succession was in a lot of minds and there was turmoil in Ireland where Catholics were suspected of supporting the enemies of England, notably Spain. Alongside the fictional characters, there are real historical figures including the Queen’s favourite, the Earl of Essex, his wife Frances, daughter of Sir Francis Walsingham, and Thomas Phelippes, Walsingham’s cryptographer who deciphered the coded letters of the Babington Plot conspirators. There’s even a walk-on part for William Shakespeare.
Traitor’s Legacy has everything I look for in a historical mystery: a deliciously complex plot, an engaging main character, a varied supporting cast and lots of period detail. It moves along at pace and, most importantly as far as I’m concerned, the ending is all nicely set up for the next book in the series.
Sophia is now a widow with a stepson who resents the fact she has inherited her late husband’s wealth. Her stepson is a drunkard, a gambler and a spendthrift with a potential for violence. Although Sophia’s was a marriage of convenience arranged by Walsingham to ensure her safety, she developed a real affection for her late husband Humphrey, often recalling his wise and supportive advice. Having said that, widowhood has given Sophia a certain freedom. ‘One of the great advantages of being a widow with her own money is that, for the first time in her life, she doesn’t have to submit to any man telling her what she can and can’t do.’
Our first encounter with Sophia is during a duel with her fencing master, so we know from the off she’s someone to be reckoned with. She’s resourceful, intrepid and resolute. ‘Here you are, like some kind of truffle-hound, determined to sniff out the truth and dig it up.’ Sophia has faced many obstacles in her life but has never given up trying to overcome them. ‘She has been raging all her life, for as long as she can remember, at one thing or another (usually the actions of men.’
Following the discovery of the dead girl’s body, Sophia is reunited with Anthony Munday, now a playwright for Richard Burbage’s theatre company, but formerly a pursuivant hunting Catholic priests smuggled into the country. This involved him working for Richard Topcliffe, notorious for his brutal interrogations. Munday now has a wife and children but his attachment to Sophia means that when her connection to the death of the girl becomes very personal he can’t help but get involved. I enjoyed the tease of the relationship between Sophia and Anthony. They’re certainly comrades but could they become something more to each other?
The plot revolves around the question of what was the motive for the murder? Was it an act of jealous rage by a spurned lover? Was it for financial gain given the dead girl was a wealthy heiress? Or was there a political angle to the murder? Answering those questions means taking on the rich and powerful, and Sophia and Anthony both find themselves in risky situations as a result. As she says at one point, ‘I feel with every step we’re tangling ourselves deeper in something that can’t end well’.
The book is set in 1598 towards the end of Elizabeth’s reign when the question of the succession was in a lot of minds and there was turmoil in Ireland where Catholics were suspected of supporting the enemies of England, notably Spain. Alongside the fictional characters, there are real historical figures including the Queen’s favourite, the Earl of Essex, his wife Frances, daughter of Sir Francis Walsingham, and Thomas Phelippes, Walsingham’s cryptographer who deciphered the coded letters of the Babington Plot conspirators. There’s even a walk-on part for William Shakespeare.
Traitor’s Legacy has everything I look for in a historical mystery: a deliciously complex plot, an engaging main character, a varied supporting cast and lots of period detail. It moves along at pace and, most importantly as far as I’m concerned, the ending is all nicely set up for the next book in the series.
June 30, 2025
Big Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the advanced copy! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
'Traitor's Legacy' is the first book in the 'Sophia de Wolfe' series. It is a historical mystery case, with some quite dark themes that are well explored.
I really enjoyed the main character, first of all, especially when she spoke up and collided with those in power. However, her past was kind of murky, and I would have wanted more information about her background as, as it was, it felt like I wasn't reading the first book in the series. The relationship with Anthony was kind of odd as well, but I liked how Sophia handled it in the end.
In addition, the mystery had many twists and turns, but it got tiring to read after a while, and things got more interesting in the final chapters.
Finally, the writing was enjoyable.
'Traitor's Legacy' is the first book in the 'Sophia de Wolfe' series. It is a historical mystery case, with some quite dark themes that are well explored.
I really enjoyed the main character, first of all, especially when she spoke up and collided with those in power. However, her past was kind of murky, and I would have wanted more information about her background as, as it was, it felt like I wasn't reading the first book in the series. The relationship with Anthony was kind of odd as well, but I liked how Sophia handled it in the end.
In addition, the mystery had many twists and turns, but it got tiring to read after a while, and things got more interesting in the final chapters.
Finally, the writing was enjoyable.
June 26, 2025
I’m not saying I was keen to get hold of this book for an upcoming holiday, but as the release date in Aus was so much later than everywhere else (why???), I sneaked a copy in via mail and Waterstones.
This is a worthy successor to the Giordano Bruno novels, set in Elizabethan England in the spymaster (Walsingham) era. Sophia, who was mentioned as a worthy intellectual match for our favourite ex-monk, now is called back into service, with a task that is close to her heart. Unusually for the age, she is an independent woman of means (i.e: wealthy widow), and this means she can get up to all sorts of escapades. And she does. This is book one of a series which I’ll impatiently be waiting for the next ones. Fantastic descriptions of the era, the scenes, and the tense political machinations that went on, not only behind the scenes, but the overt jostling for favour. Highly recommend if you’re a historical fiction buff.
This is a worthy successor to the Giordano Bruno novels, set in Elizabethan England in the spymaster (Walsingham) era. Sophia, who was mentioned as a worthy intellectual match for our favourite ex-monk, now is called back into service, with a task that is close to her heart. Unusually for the age, she is an independent woman of means (i.e: wealthy widow), and this means she can get up to all sorts of escapades. And she does. This is book one of a series which I’ll impatiently be waiting for the next ones. Fantastic descriptions of the era, the scenes, and the tense political machinations that went on, not only behind the scenes, but the overt jostling for favour. Highly recommend if you’re a historical fiction buff.
January 24, 2025
I absolutely loved Traitor’s Legacy by S.J. Parris—it was another brilliant blend of historical intrigue and suspense. The richly detailed Elizabethan setting and clever twists kept me hooked from start to finish. While I was initially disappointed that Bruno didn’t make an appearance, I found that Sophia de Wolfe stood strong on her own as the main protagonist. Her intelligence, resourcefulness, and complexity made her a compelling lead, and she carried the story beautifully. Even without Bruno, this was a fantastic read, and I cannot wait for the next installment in this exciting new series!
April 14, 2025
This is a beautifully written piece of historical fiction, set in Elizabethan England in the latter days of Elizabeth’s reign, featuring Will Shakespeare himself (as a minor side character).
Sophia is a widow with a past; a spy for the Elizabethan Court, who’s tempted out of retirement by Robert Cecil, Elizabeth’s spy master. But there’s a stronger motivation to tempt Sophia; her son, Tobie, has been arrested for the murder of a young heiress with powerful connections.
Convinced of his innocence, Sophia will do everything in her power to find the real perpetrator of the crime, all the while having to keep her true identity secret, as Tobie (and most of London), have no idea she is his mother.
There are twists and turns a plenty to keep you guessing, while the machinations of the Elizabethan court turn ominously in the background.
A solid five-star read, which I’m sure you’ll enjoy if you’re an historical thriller fan.
With thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collins UK for an advance copy. Traitor’s Legacy releases on 8 May.
Sophia is a widow with a past; a spy for the Elizabethan Court, who’s tempted out of retirement by Robert Cecil, Elizabeth’s spy master. But there’s a stronger motivation to tempt Sophia; her son, Tobie, has been arrested for the murder of a young heiress with powerful connections.
Convinced of his innocence, Sophia will do everything in her power to find the real perpetrator of the crime, all the while having to keep her true identity secret, as Tobie (and most of London), have no idea she is his mother.
There are twists and turns a plenty to keep you guessing, while the machinations of the Elizabethan court turn ominously in the background.
A solid five-star read, which I’m sure you’ll enjoy if you’re an historical thriller fan.
With thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collins UK for an advance copy. Traitor’s Legacy releases on 8 May.
February 23, 2025
A fabulous historical read with the ever inspiring Sophia de Wolfe as the female lead. A rich, suspenseful plot which will make you feel like you are alongside on this journey.
The characters are very well written and developed, with appearances from memorable legends of this era.
Highly recommend!
The characters are very well written and developed, with appearances from memorable legends of this era.
Highly recommend!
May 26, 2025
I know S.J. Parris’s Giordano Bruno historical thrillers, set in Elizabethan England, are very popular, but I’ve only read one of them – Sacrilege – and wasn’t particularly impressed. When I saw that she’d started to write a new series, of which Traitor’s Legacy is the first, I thought it would be a good opportunity to give her another try. As it turned out, this is actually a spin-off featuring some of the same characters (but not Bruno himself, although he is mentioned once or twice).
Traitor’s Legacy is set in the winter of 1598 and follows Sophia de Wolfe, formerly an agent of the Queen’s spymaster, Sir Francis Walsingham. Now Walsingham is dead and Secretary of State Robert Cecil has stepped into his role. It’s Cecil who summons Sophia when a girl’s body is found in the foundations of a building site with a scrap of paper tucked inside her clothing. The paper contains a message written in a cipher used by Sophia during her time as a spy, suggesting that someone is trying to link her to the murder. But who would want to do that and how could the secret cipher have fallen into anyone else’s hands?
The girl is quickly identified as Agnes Lovell, a wealthy heiress and a ward of the powerful nobleman Sir Thomas North, who had been planning to marry her to his son, Edmund. It’s possible that the murder could have been committed for political reasons – North had gained a reputation for corruption during a recent military campaign in Ireland – but there also seems to be a connection with the ambitious Earl of Essex, the Queen’s favourite courtier. However, things take a more personal turn for Sophia when suspicion falls on her own illegitimate son, Tobie. Sophia will do whatever it takes to clear his name, but this is made more difficult by the fact that Tobie himself has no idea that she is his mother!
Having only read one of the Giordano Bruno novels, I’m not sure how much we actually learn about Sophia in that series. I vaguely remember her from Sacrilege and presumably she’s in some of the other books as well. It’s definitely possible to follow what’s happening in this book without any prior knowledge, but I did feel there was a lot of backstory I wasn’t familiar with and had to pick up as I went along. I didn’t find Sophia entirely believable as a 16th century woman, but not wildly anachronistic either and she’s aware of the limitations placed on her by society. I liked her as a character and enjoyed following her investigations. She’s assisted by Anthony Munday, a playwright and another former spy, sometimes working together and sometimes separately which helps the story to move along.
Many of the characters in the book are people who really existed; I’ve already mentioned some of them, but we also meet others including Thomas Phelippes, Cecil’s cryptographer, and Frances Devereux, wife of the Earl of Essex. Through the character of Anthony Munday, the novel also touches on Elizabethan London’s theatrical world and the rival groups of actors, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men and the Admiral’s Men. There’s a lot going on, then, but the plot, although complex, is easy enough to follow and I gradually became gripped by it. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to meeting Sophia and her friends again as the series progresses.
Traitor’s Legacy is set in the winter of 1598 and follows Sophia de Wolfe, formerly an agent of the Queen’s spymaster, Sir Francis Walsingham. Now Walsingham is dead and Secretary of State Robert Cecil has stepped into his role. It’s Cecil who summons Sophia when a girl’s body is found in the foundations of a building site with a scrap of paper tucked inside her clothing. The paper contains a message written in a cipher used by Sophia during her time as a spy, suggesting that someone is trying to link her to the murder. But who would want to do that and how could the secret cipher have fallen into anyone else’s hands?
The girl is quickly identified as Agnes Lovell, a wealthy heiress and a ward of the powerful nobleman Sir Thomas North, who had been planning to marry her to his son, Edmund. It’s possible that the murder could have been committed for political reasons – North had gained a reputation for corruption during a recent military campaign in Ireland – but there also seems to be a connection with the ambitious Earl of Essex, the Queen’s favourite courtier. However, things take a more personal turn for Sophia when suspicion falls on her own illegitimate son, Tobie. Sophia will do whatever it takes to clear his name, but this is made more difficult by the fact that Tobie himself has no idea that she is his mother!
Having only read one of the Giordano Bruno novels, I’m not sure how much we actually learn about Sophia in that series. I vaguely remember her from Sacrilege and presumably she’s in some of the other books as well. It’s definitely possible to follow what’s happening in this book without any prior knowledge, but I did feel there was a lot of backstory I wasn’t familiar with and had to pick up as I went along. I didn’t find Sophia entirely believable as a 16th century woman, but not wildly anachronistic either and she’s aware of the limitations placed on her by society. I liked her as a character and enjoyed following her investigations. She’s assisted by Anthony Munday, a playwright and another former spy, sometimes working together and sometimes separately which helps the story to move along.
Many of the characters in the book are people who really existed; I’ve already mentioned some of them, but we also meet others including Thomas Phelippes, Cecil’s cryptographer, and Frances Devereux, wife of the Earl of Essex. Through the character of Anthony Munday, the novel also touches on Elizabethan London’s theatrical world and the rival groups of actors, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men and the Admiral’s Men. There’s a lot going on, then, but the plot, although complex, is easy enough to follow and I gradually became gripped by it. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to meeting Sophia and her friends again as the series progresses.
May 18, 2025
Derring-do and skullduggery – oh, that history in school had been as exciting – with fine, fine writing and intriguing characters thrown in, make for a truly engaging and zippy read. The weaving of fact and fiction in an Elizabethan setting, murder, spies abounding, splendid sword fights, not to mention the excellent dialogue, ensure time is well spent in reading Traitor’s Legacy, the first in a new series from S.J. Parris.
May 11, 2025
A straight 5* for me! As her previous novels featuring Bruno Giordano, this new series is of the same quality as regards the plot as well as the characters. This time a woman is the central figure, a spy (who had known Bruno!) now working for Cecil. Sophie is a complex character with many secrets surrounding her life... Quite a bit of action involving The Earl of Essex and many others. The theatre world is in the background with William Shakespeare making a couple of appearances. I love historical fiction mixed with real people. It gives the novel a familiar touch and arouses my interest even more! A very compelling novel I highly recommend!
I received a digital advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I received a digital advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
May 14, 2025
This is an author whom I have been wanting to read for quite a while now. This seemed to be the perfect time, as Traitor's Legacy is the first book in a new series. The main character is Sofia de Wolfe, and her story is beginning to emerge, but I am sure there is more to come!
Sofia has had a mixed past. She is recently widowed and has been called back into service for Robert Cecil. She had worked for Lord Walsingham, and Cecil is aware of her skill set. The era is that of Elizabeth I. Walsingham was a spymaster to the Queen.
The case is that of a young woman found dead, the culprit is thought to be a young man who is an actor. As Sofia is a supporter of the p[layers she is asked to help, but there is a lot more at stake here than that of a murdered woman and a man held in prison.
The setting and era of this story are great, and there is so much detail that has been included about the politics, society and living conditions. The research that has gone into this is very good, and while there is a lot of detail, it is blended in with the story. The mystery of the murder takes the plot into darker and more dangerous areas for Sofia and also those who are helping her. Working in secrets, lies, and manipulation leaves Sofia unsure who to trust. While she may have status, she has not had the standing she once may have had since the death of her husband. There is a very good amount of backstory to Sofia's character, and as I mentioned earlier, I do feel there is a lot more to come.
If you are a fan of historical fiction set during the Elizabethan period that involves known figures of the time, playwrights, murders and a whole lot of scandal and mystery, then this is a series that you may find interesting. I really enjoyed it and I would be happy to recommend it.
Sofia has had a mixed past. She is recently widowed and has been called back into service for Robert Cecil. She had worked for Lord Walsingham, and Cecil is aware of her skill set. The era is that of Elizabeth I. Walsingham was a spymaster to the Queen.
The case is that of a young woman found dead, the culprit is thought to be a young man who is an actor. As Sofia is a supporter of the p[layers she is asked to help, but there is a lot more at stake here than that of a murdered woman and a man held in prison.
The setting and era of this story are great, and there is so much detail that has been included about the politics, society and living conditions. The research that has gone into this is very good, and while there is a lot of detail, it is blended in with the story. The mystery of the murder takes the plot into darker and more dangerous areas for Sofia and also those who are helping her. Working in secrets, lies, and manipulation leaves Sofia unsure who to trust. While she may have status, she has not had the standing she once may have had since the death of her husband. There is a very good amount of backstory to Sofia's character, and as I mentioned earlier, I do feel there is a lot more to come.
If you are a fan of historical fiction set during the Elizabethan period that involves known figures of the time, playwrights, murders and a whole lot of scandal and mystery, then this is a series that you may find interesting. I really enjoyed it and I would be happy to recommend it.
August 17, 2025
I didn't enjoy this as much as the Giordano Bruno novels but an enjoyable mystery all the same.
It was a risk picking this up as I never liked Sophia in the other novels, but Parris is one of my favourite authors, so I had to try. I was pleasantly surprised how much more I like Sophia without Bruno as I always felt she was just a ploy to make Bruno make stupid decisions, but in her own novel she has a strong mind and determined nature that I admired.
The mystery was twisty and enjoyable, not going the way I expected it, but also nothing too special and sometimes a little slow. I thought Munday, though one of the main characters, lacked personality and characterisation apart from being in love with Sophia. It might also be hard to read this without reading the Bruno novels as there is a lot of Sophia's past just haphazardly slapped in without too much explaining.
Through a lot of the book I also felt like information was given out far too freely to the main characters, people just spilling their deepest secrets without much prompting which I found unrealistic. To be honest, this made up most of the book- not much action and people just spilling information.
Good writing but I would have preferred a Bruno novel. Sorry 😣
It was a risk picking this up as I never liked Sophia in the other novels, but Parris is one of my favourite authors, so I had to try. I was pleasantly surprised how much more I like Sophia without Bruno as I always felt she was just a ploy to make Bruno make stupid decisions, but in her own novel she has a strong mind and determined nature that I admired.
The mystery was twisty and enjoyable, not going the way I expected it, but also nothing too special and sometimes a little slow. I thought Munday, though one of the main characters, lacked personality and characterisation apart from being in love with Sophia. It might also be hard to read this without reading the Bruno novels as there is a lot of Sophia's past just haphazardly slapped in without too much explaining.
Through a lot of the book I also felt like information was given out far too freely to the main characters, people just spilling their deepest secrets without much prompting which I found unrealistic. To be honest, this made up most of the book- not much action and people just spilling information.
Good writing but I would have preferred a Bruno novel. Sorry 😣
May 25, 2025
I was sent a copy of Traitor’s Legacy by S. J. Parris to read and review by NetGalley. I’ve always enjoyed reading novels by S. J. Parris and this book is no exception. Quite early on in the story I felt that the protagonist Sophia de Wolfe seemed very familiar to me but it was only much later in the book that I discovered that she was a character from the Giordano Bruno novels, then everything fell into place. You certainly don’t have to read any of those books before reading this one, the first in a series, as there is enough back story to help you understand Sophia’s history – but without so much that you feel like you are re-reading words that you have read before. There is a lot to like about Traitor’s Legacy. It is really nice having a feisty female protagonist and the way the author captures London of the times is very realistic, at least as far as we know of that era in time. There are lots of twists and turns and a great cast of characters, I suggest if you love historical mystery novels then you should definitely read and enjoy!
March 23, 2025
The author has started a series with a new central character: Sophia de Woolfe. She is a previous agent of Francis Walsingham but is now a wealthy widow sponsoring the theatre, partly due to son being one of the players. He son was taken form her when he was born and he doesn’t know their true relationship. When a noble girl called Agnes is found murdered at the theatre, a note is left on the body using Sophia’s previous cipher. She is drawn back into the world of politics and intrigue by Robert Cecil, partly to keep her secret. I found her a likeable central character with determination and charisma, Working alongside her is a devoted Anthony who I felt was a bit of a puppy dog. The story twists and turns and he a satisfying ending, I will read more of the series. Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC.
January 29, 2025
Traitor’s Legacy by S.J. Parris is an exciting historical murder mystery novel set in late Elizabethan London. It is the first in a new series featuring former spy Sophia De Wolfe who had previously worked for chief spymaster Francis Walsingham prior to her marriage and under a different name. One of her fellow spies had been Gordiano Bruno who was, of course, the main character in Parris' previous series of novels. Walsingham is dead and Sir Robert Cecil is now Master Secretary to the Queen and her spymaster.
While disappointed that this new series seems to indicate the end of the Bruno novels, Sophia De Wolfe the main protagonist in the new series is a satisfying replacement. The novel exhibits all the surprising twists and turns expected from the Gordiano series and alongside several of the landed gentry also features with the Lord Chamberlain's Men and The Admiral's Men, characters from Shakespeare's theatrical world. I also enjoyed the many light-hearted touches which include a sword fight that Erroll Flynn would have been proud of and a repartee between our heroine and Will Shakespeare towards the end of the book.
The book definitely deserves five stars and is from a novelist on the top of her form.
Thanks to HarperCollins and NetGalley for an ARC of this most enjoyable book.
While disappointed that this new series seems to indicate the end of the Bruno novels, Sophia De Wolfe the main protagonist in the new series is a satisfying replacement. The novel exhibits all the surprising twists and turns expected from the Gordiano series and alongside several of the landed gentry also features with the Lord Chamberlain's Men and The Admiral's Men, characters from Shakespeare's theatrical world. I also enjoyed the many light-hearted touches which include a sword fight that Erroll Flynn would have been proud of and a repartee between our heroine and Will Shakespeare towards the end of the book.
The book definitely deserves five stars and is from a novelist on the top of her form.
Thanks to HarperCollins and NetGalley for an ARC of this most enjoyable book.
November 20, 2025
This was a vast improvement on the two Giordano Bruno books I read, several years ago. The writing is stronger, the characters more likeable, and the atmosphere of late Elizabethan life is well-conveyed. some of the dialogue is a little forced, but I believe this is the beginning of a new series, and so I'm inclined to give Book 2 a go (when it's published).
April 8, 2025
Another great book from S J Parris - perfect for the fans of her Giordano Bruno series. This time, our chief protagonist/spy is the recently widowed Sophia de Wolfe.
The book opens in London during the winter of 1598, with the body of a 13 year old heiress (found in a theatre). There is a mysterious note attached to her body, written using the cipher Sophia herself used during her days as one of the great Sir Frances Walsingham’s spies. In the ‘now’ of the novel, Sir Francis is dead and Sophia is called to the presence of Robert Cecil - the next spymaster of Elizabeth I. This brings Sophia out of retirement and back into the world of murder, plotting and intrigue that Parris describes so well.
The introduction of a female spy adds a different spin on this popular genre of novel. Great for fans of CJ Samson’s Shardlake series, as well as Rory Clements’ John Shakespeare narratives too. I am looking forward to (hopefully) more books in this series!
The book opens in London during the winter of 1598, with the body of a 13 year old heiress (found in a theatre). There is a mysterious note attached to her body, written using the cipher Sophia herself used during her days as one of the great Sir Frances Walsingham’s spies. In the ‘now’ of the novel, Sir Francis is dead and Sophia is called to the presence of Robert Cecil - the next spymaster of Elizabeth I. This brings Sophia out of retirement and back into the world of murder, plotting and intrigue that Parris describes so well.
The introduction of a female spy adds a different spin on this popular genre of novel. Great for fans of CJ Samson’s Shardlake series, as well as Rory Clements’ John Shakespeare narratives too. I am looking forward to (hopefully) more books in this series!
May 17, 2025
Sophia de Wolfe is a rich widow who used to be a spy and now her past is catching up with her. The body of a young heiress has been found and pinned to her is a note written in a cipher that identifies Sophia, in addition the person accused of murder is Sophia's secret son. In the depths of winter London is not a safe place to be and Sophia must save her son.
Parris' previous novels have featured Giordano Bruno, a real-life individual given fictional stories. Now a character from those books, Sophia Underhill, is brought to the fore and the timeframe shifted to the end of Elizabeth's reign. The knowledge of London in the very late 16th century is excellent and there are some wonderful characters evoked, as well as known personae. I loved the plot, clever and complicated but simple enough in motive, but I really loved the little touches especially the appearance of William Shakespeare and the hints at him using actions in this plot as inspiration.
Parris' previous novels have featured Giordano Bruno, a real-life individual given fictional stories. Now a character from those books, Sophia Underhill, is brought to the fore and the timeframe shifted to the end of Elizabeth's reign. The knowledge of London in the very late 16th century is excellent and there are some wonderful characters evoked, as well as known personae. I loved the plot, clever and complicated but simple enough in motive, but I really loved the little touches especially the appearance of William Shakespeare and the hints at him using actions in this plot as inspiration.
May 18, 2025
What an amazing start to a new series! I absolutely loved the mix of historical fiction and mystery—S.J. Parris nails both. The setting is vivid, the plot is gripping, and the characters are instantly compelling. A smart, atmospheric read that left me wanting more!
April 6, 2025
I enjoyed this book and it was refreshing that the protagonist was a female, especially as the book was set during the late sixteenth century. Sophia de Wolfe had previously worked as a spy and she was good. After settling to a quieter life, she is called up to investigate a case. It is possible this could have been connected to her previous work. The book covers many themes and it is a convincing thriller, a page turner. I like the detail of London and Elizabethan life. Shakespeare plays a small part in the book but it is Sophia, a young widow who is central. I am now going to look at other books by this author, as I like how she has elevated a story of that time and presented it differently.
April 8, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! I really love historical fiction, especially when it involves real life people in the stories.
This one did not disappoint, I loved the main character, this time a female and she was very strong and likeable.
I think I may have just found my favourite new historian fiction writer! Excited to see what comes next !
This one did not disappoint, I loved the main character, this time a female and she was very strong and likeable.
I think I may have just found my favourite new historian fiction writer! Excited to see what comes next !
May 5, 2025
While not being new to historical dramas I am however new to S. J. Parris’ work; I have since added ‘Heresy’ to my TBR!
Set in the Winter of 1598, Sophia de Wolfe is roped in to investigate the murder of a thirteen year old girl after evidence left at the scene ties to Sophia herself. I was hooked in the beginning but the slowness lost me a little bit in the middle, I found myself easily distracted while reading but from around 70% I was hooked again!
I’’ll definitely be sticking around for the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the opportunity to read this title!
Set in the Winter of 1598, Sophia de Wolfe is roped in to investigate the murder of a thirteen year old girl after evidence left at the scene ties to Sophia herself. I was hooked in the beginning but the slowness lost me a little bit in the middle, I found myself easily distracted while reading but from around 70% I was hooked again!
I’’ll definitely be sticking around for the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the opportunity to read this title!
May 8, 2025
It's December 1598, Queen Elizabeth I is still on the throne, but ageing, with no heir.
Sophia De Wolfe is a widow and former spy. When she retired, her former spy-master, Walsingham, brokered a marriage for her with the wealthy merchant Humphrey de Wolfe and they were very happy until his death. When she was nineteen Sophia fell in love with a Jesuit priest and bore a child out of wedlock who was subsequently adopted, she has used her connections to discover the identity of the child, who is now a young man of fifteen and has kept an eye on him ever since. Her son, Tobie, who has no idea she is his birth mother, is an actor in a theatre company and she supports the company with her patronage.
One night, a young woman's body is found in a shallow grave. She is no pauper, instead she is an incredibly wealthy young woman, Agnes, ward to Sir Thomas North, who was intended to be betrothed to Thomas's son Edmund. Pinned to the girl's body is a note in a code created especially for Sophia when she was a spy. She hasn't thought of the code for a decade - who could have got hold of it and why would they use it to write a note and pin it to a body? Has someone discovered Sophia's past? Robert Cecil, the queen's current spymaster instructs Sophia to investigate.
Then disaster strikes. Sir Thomas has found love letters from Tobie to Agnes and has decided that Tobie killed her when she refused to elope with him. Now Sophia will do anything to rescue her son from prison. But as she investigates things become murky, was her death connected to a secret Catholic conspiracy? Why did the Countess of Essex take such an interest in Agnes? Is her murder related to the uprisings in Ireland? Was her murder a direct hit to Sophia?
I requested this book thinking the author was C.J. Sansom or Andrew Taylor (many of whose books I have read and enjoyed) and honestly I was none the wiser at the end that it wasn't one of these authors - I will definitely revisit her Giordano Bruno series - I think I bought the first one and couldn't get into it.
Recommended for fans of C.J. Sansom or Andrew Taylor.
Overall, a fascinating, well-plotted historical detective series and I will definitely request the second book in the series.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Bumped for release.
Sophia De Wolfe is a widow and former spy. When she retired, her former spy-master, Walsingham, brokered a marriage for her with the wealthy merchant Humphrey de Wolfe and they were very happy until his death. When she was nineteen Sophia fell in love with a Jesuit priest and bore a child out of wedlock who was subsequently adopted, she has used her connections to discover the identity of the child, who is now a young man of fifteen and has kept an eye on him ever since. Her son, Tobie, who has no idea she is his birth mother, is an actor in a theatre company and she supports the company with her patronage.
One night, a young woman's body is found in a shallow grave. She is no pauper, instead she is an incredibly wealthy young woman, Agnes, ward to Sir Thomas North, who was intended to be betrothed to Thomas's son Edmund. Pinned to the girl's body is a note in a code created especially for Sophia when she was a spy. She hasn't thought of the code for a decade - who could have got hold of it and why would they use it to write a note and pin it to a body? Has someone discovered Sophia's past? Robert Cecil, the queen's current spymaster instructs Sophia to investigate.
Then disaster strikes. Sir Thomas has found love letters from Tobie to Agnes and has decided that Tobie killed her when she refused to elope with him. Now Sophia will do anything to rescue her son from prison. But as she investigates things become murky, was her death connected to a secret Catholic conspiracy? Why did the Countess of Essex take such an interest in Agnes? Is her murder related to the uprisings in Ireland? Was her murder a direct hit to Sophia?
I requested this book thinking the author was C.J. Sansom or Andrew Taylor (many of whose books I have read and enjoyed) and honestly I was none the wiser at the end that it wasn't one of these authors - I will definitely revisit her Giordano Bruno series - I think I bought the first one and couldn't get into it.
Recommended for fans of C.J. Sansom or Andrew Taylor.
Overall, a fascinating, well-plotted historical detective series and I will definitely request the second book in the series.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Bumped for release.
December 13, 2025
I really enjoy S. J. Parris work, and this book was no exception. I couldn't put it down, and I've happily finished it this morning. Can not wait to see what happens to Sophia, as this is just the beginning of her story.
May 13, 2025
This is a multilayered historical fiction. Set in England, 1598. Author takes us back to the Late Elizabethan England. The world that is filled with mysteries, conspiracies, secrets, lies and history. The book is so compelling and well researched. Character development is good. Sophia’s character is phenomenal. Sophia was called to investigate the case of the young heiress but the mystery gets deeper when she finds a cryptic note and it opens the window to her past life. Now she is on a quest to find out the truth and unveil secrets from both past and present.
Thanks to the Publisher
Thanks to the Publisher
April 29, 2025
A different read, I found the writing and the style of it very good, however I found the story itself very slow paced - perhaps that’s just me. I enjoyed the characters, Sophie’s story is tragic but gave hope throughout, I loved that she was an empowering woman during the 14th century when women had little or no say in anything. I felt her character was quite futuristic - especially when she drew her sword!! What happened to Agnes was very sad and unexpected in the end. I wish Badger had more of a story. I feel it’s left open for a further story with Sophie and Tobie!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book.
March 10, 2025
::| Traitor’s Legacy
By S.J Parris
Chapter Four Page 48
5.5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
{ Now, at twenty-four, she appears entirely at ease with her boyish manor. Sophia envies her this freedom to choose, but it's easier to get away with it if you work in the playhouse, as Jo does, where she is usually assigned to be one of the boy actors, though in fact she designs and sews costumes for the players. Not that her choice is without risk; there have been instances of girls from the Southwark bawdy house set in the pillory for dressing as boys at their clients’ request.
“Taking these to Blackfriars for a fitting.” Jo pats the bundle on the table.
“Ben says I can ride with him over the bridge as it's on your way, if Mistress de Wolfe doesn't mind? The boats are struggling to cross with the river half-frozen.”
“Are those for the Chamberlain's Men?” Sophia asks, trying not to betray too much interest.
“I'd have thought they'd be lying low after yesterday's escapade.”}
What a read! I was introduced to the de Wolfe family after a simmering introduction of mischief and murder, betrayal and consequence and intrigue and mystery, to set up this monster of creativity. I was enthralled and wanted to keep reading, no breaks, no distractions.
I instantly liked Sophia, I knew she would be a risk taker from the moment I learned of her techniques in fencing. That and her refusal to put on a skirt to keep up tradition. Why should she change?
Pretty quickly, we are introduced to Robert Cecil, and with important players, and with the storyline blurred from the start, it was so hard to predict what would happen next. Once I thought I had the storyline pretty much wrapped up, it would take a nose dive in a completely new and not yet explored direction.
It was an amazing read and I have a feeling I will need to read it again to take everything in, but I'm sure if I did, I would be seeing new things I never saw before, subtle hints and little clues. I loved the books, the characters, the twist and turns, and more importantly, the little details that made this book one of the best I have read.
It was hard to drag myself away from this book, I have to admit. Historical fiction always has me hooked. I felt the author had researched, perfected, and laid the scene, setting and characters out enough to offer a glimpse about what it was like in Elizebethan times. It's hard to have the concentration to pull off different characters steeped in history to twist it into something believable. From the poor and unlucky to the rich and the greedy, it is not easy to pull off such hard character in a male dominated world.
A huge thank you to S.J.Parris, Hemlock Press, HarperCollinsPublishers and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. |::
By S.J Parris
Chapter Four Page 48
5.5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
{ Now, at twenty-four, she appears entirely at ease with her boyish manor. Sophia envies her this freedom to choose, but it's easier to get away with it if you work in the playhouse, as Jo does, where she is usually assigned to be one of the boy actors, though in fact she designs and sews costumes for the players. Not that her choice is without risk; there have been instances of girls from the Southwark bawdy house set in the pillory for dressing as boys at their clients’ request.
“Taking these to Blackfriars for a fitting.” Jo pats the bundle on the table.
“Ben says I can ride with him over the bridge as it's on your way, if Mistress de Wolfe doesn't mind? The boats are struggling to cross with the river half-frozen.”
“Are those for the Chamberlain's Men?” Sophia asks, trying not to betray too much interest.
“I'd have thought they'd be lying low after yesterday's escapade.”}
What a read! I was introduced to the de Wolfe family after a simmering introduction of mischief and murder, betrayal and consequence and intrigue and mystery, to set up this monster of creativity. I was enthralled and wanted to keep reading, no breaks, no distractions.
I instantly liked Sophia, I knew she would be a risk taker from the moment I learned of her techniques in fencing. That and her refusal to put on a skirt to keep up tradition. Why should she change?
Pretty quickly, we are introduced to Robert Cecil, and with important players, and with the storyline blurred from the start, it was so hard to predict what would happen next. Once I thought I had the storyline pretty much wrapped up, it would take a nose dive in a completely new and not yet explored direction.
It was an amazing read and I have a feeling I will need to read it again to take everything in, but I'm sure if I did, I would be seeing new things I never saw before, subtle hints and little clues. I loved the books, the characters, the twist and turns, and more importantly, the little details that made this book one of the best I have read.
It was hard to drag myself away from this book, I have to admit. Historical fiction always has me hooked. I felt the author had researched, perfected, and laid the scene, setting and characters out enough to offer a glimpse about what it was like in Elizebethan times. It's hard to have the concentration to pull off different characters steeped in history to twist it into something believable. From the poor and unlucky to the rich and the greedy, it is not easy to pull off such hard character in a male dominated world.
A huge thank you to S.J.Parris, Hemlock Press, HarperCollinsPublishers and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. |::
March 10, 2025
Christmas season in 1598 Elizabethan England sees the Lord Chamberlains men remove the theatre from its location to remove it across the river. In one of the post holds the body of a young girl is found along with a note written in a cypher and a brooch.
The cypher was that that was used by Sophia DeWolfe, a wealthy widow who prior to her marriage to Humphrey DeWolfe, was a spy for Sir Francis Walsingham. As the cypher was unique to her Sir Robert Cecil calls upon her. Thus Sophia is soon immersed in solving a murder and saving herself.
Characters real and fictional make their appearance. Fortunately the historical personages do not feel slotted in but appear naturally in the narrative.
4.5* rounded up to 5*
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the ARC.
The cypher was that that was used by Sophia DeWolfe, a wealthy widow who prior to her marriage to Humphrey DeWolfe, was a spy for Sir Francis Walsingham. As the cypher was unique to her Sir Robert Cecil calls upon her. Thus Sophia is soon immersed in solving a murder and saving herself.
Characters real and fictional make their appearance. Fortunately the historical personages do not feel slotted in but appear naturally in the narrative.
4.5* rounded up to 5*
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the ARC.
March 14, 2025
Formerly a spy for Francis Walsingham, Sophia De Wolfe has to bring all her skills into play to discover who murdered heiress Agnes Lovell.
Through the dark streets and alleyways of Elizabethan London, our plucky protagonist encounters plenty of men who would rather silence her than allow the truth to prevail
I loved this novel. There was enough intruige and suspense to keep me reading. I loved the idea of a female spy, especially in historical fiction which is one of my favourite genres.
Through the dark streets and alleyways of Elizabethan London, our plucky protagonist encounters plenty of men who would rather silence her than allow the truth to prevail
I loved this novel. There was enough intruige and suspense to keep me reading. I loved the idea of a female spy, especially in historical fiction which is one of my favourite genres.
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