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The Chronicles of Christoval Alvarez #8
That Time May Cease
When the violent arrest of an innocent apprentice sparks a riot in Southwark during the summer of 1592, more lies behind it than a simple grievance. Increasing poverty, vagrancy, and crime in a restless London compel a nervous Privy Council to close the playhouses, forcing Lord Strange’s Men to go on tour, while hostility to foreign refugees, aggravated by Marlowe’s play, The Jew of Malta, adds to the danger on the streets for Strangers like Kit Alvarez. Other dangers are more subtle. The ensnaring of young men by illegal loan sharks and the circulation of damning accusations, both public and private, increase the atmosphere of fear and distrust which permeates a city threatened by twin evils – death of the body from plague, death of the soul from heresy. The performance of the new play of Dr Faustus seems prophetic when it is followed by ‘a great reckoning in a little room’.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 14, 2016
107 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Ann Swinfen
46 books217 followersAnn Swinfen spent her childhood partly in England and partly on the east coast of America. She read Classics and Mathematics at Oxford, where she married a fellow undergraduate, the historian David Swinfen. While bringing up their five children and studying for an MSc in Mathematics and a BA and PhD in English Literature, she had a variety of jobs, including university lecturer, translator, freelance journalist and software designer.
She served for nine years on the governing council of the Open University and for five years worked as a manager and editor in the technical author division of an international computer company, but gave up her full-time job to concentrate on her writing, while continuing part-time university teaching. In 1995 she founded Dundee Book Events, a voluntary organisation promoting books and authors to the general public.
Her first three novels, The Anniversary, The Travellers, and A Running Tide, all with a contemporary setting but also an historical resonance, were published by Random House, with translations into Dutch and German. Her fourth novel, The Testament of Mariam, marked something of a departure. Set in the first century, it recounts, from an unusual perspective, one of the most famous and yet ambiguous stories in human history. At the same time it explores life under a foreign occupying force, in lands still torn by conflict to this day. Her latest novel, Flood, is set in the fenlands of East Anglia during the seventeenth century, where the local people fought desperately to save their land from greedy and unscrupulous speculators.
She now lives on the northeast coast of Scotland, with her husband (formerly vice-principal of the University of Dundee), a cocker spaniel and two Maine Coon cats.
She served for nine years on the governing council of the Open University and for five years worked as a manager and editor in the technical author division of an international computer company, but gave up her full-time job to concentrate on her writing, while continuing part-time university teaching. In 1995 she founded Dundee Book Events, a voluntary organisation promoting books and authors to the general public.
Her first three novels, The Anniversary, The Travellers, and A Running Tide, all with a contemporary setting but also an historical resonance, were published by Random House, with translations into Dutch and German. Her fourth novel, The Testament of Mariam, marked something of a departure. Set in the first century, it recounts, from an unusual perspective, one of the most famous and yet ambiguous stories in human history. At the same time it explores life under a foreign occupying force, in lands still torn by conflict to this day. Her latest novel, Flood, is set in the fenlands of East Anglia during the seventeenth century, where the local people fought desperately to save their land from greedy and unscrupulous speculators.
She now lives on the northeast coast of Scotland, with her husband (formerly vice-principal of the University of Dundee), a cocker spaniel and two Maine Coon cats.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 23, 2016
This series goes from strength to strength. Although Sir Francis Walsingham's death and the disbanding of his private secret service a couple of books back has shifted the focus from international espionage and code breaking back to medicine and Kit's charming but complicated (by her personal situation) relationship with Simon, Ann Swinfen does a good job of maintaining a general sense of threat—here via an outbreak of plague that sends the London town fathers into a tizzy and causes, among other things, the barricading of innocent children in their houses and the closing of the theaters, leaving Simon and his friends with no means of support. Civil unrest, violence-prone loan sharks, and arson also keep the hospitals busy and the citizens of London on their toes even as the shenanigans of Christopher Marlowe (the playwright) move the plot along. And as always, Kit's faithful canine companion, Rickie, is at her side.
A highly satisfying addition to what has become one of my favorite series. I can't wait for book 9, although I fear I may have at least one more story to go before Kit and Simon find their way.
A highly satisfying addition to what has become one of my favorite series. I can't wait for book 9, although I fear I may have at least one more story to go before Kit and Simon find their way.
May 16, 2021
After the last few books where Dr. Christoval Alvarez has traveled to such perilous places as Portugal and Muscovy, readers might not find this story quite as exciting. For the most part, however, I am sure that Kit would prefer being in this entry in the series because she gets to spend most of her time doing what she prefers, which is being a physician and treating her patients, especially the lying-in mothers. Life has become somewhat risky in London, with immigrants targeted because the unemployed poor believe that the Strangers are stealing their jobs. These flames have been fanned by the plays of Christopher Marlowe, who has particularly set Kit in his sights. Extremely well-written and researched.
June 13, 2017
Exceptional!
I highly recommend this series and, obviously, this last of the series to any reader interested in, especially, Elizabethan Era England during the latter part of 16th century. This author does a remarkable job of creating a character whose life is touched by many of the social, political and religious events if the time. There is nothing dull about the adventures of Christoval, a young Portuguese refugee who escaped the inquisition to settle in London with her father.
This particular episode in history has duplicated itself over and again through the centuries and we can see it again in our time. It is an eye opener for sure.
I highly recommend this series and, obviously, this last of the series to any reader interested in, especially, Elizabethan Era England during the latter part of 16th century. This author does a remarkable job of creating a character whose life is touched by many of the social, political and religious events if the time. There is nothing dull about the adventures of Christoval, a young Portuguese refugee who escaped the inquisition to settle in London with her father.
This particular episode in history has duplicated itself over and again through the centuries and we can see it again in our time. It is an eye opener for sure.
August 29, 2017
It took me ages to finish this novel, which was partly due to issues I was having with time and other books shoving their way to the front of the queue but also because unlike the other novels in the series this one seemed somewhat adrift.
Certainly the setting was as atmospheric as previous novels but it seemed to drift in terms of story and the issue of Kit being able to continue indefinitely was touched upon but not really furthered. Towards the end as events unfold around the other Kit in the story - Kit Marlow - the pace quickened and I was not able to put it down.
No news yet on a Book 9 but I certainly intend to read when it comes out.
Certainly the setting was as atmospheric as previous novels but it seemed to drift in terms of story and the issue of Kit being able to continue indefinitely was touched upon but not really furthered. Towards the end as events unfold around the other Kit in the story - Kit Marlow - the pace quickened and I was not able to put it down.
No news yet on a Book 9 but I certainly intend to read when it comes out.
November 11, 2017
I really enjoyed this book for where it took place
I have read all of this series and I really enjoyed this one because it kept Kit home and not travelling. At one point I really was hopping that she would tell Simon or at least see what he knows. I loved how Ned knew already by observing and how he took it. I just wished that she could be open to her best friend who I know loves her as a friend and should understand the situation when it all is explained to him.
Will there be another in this series? I have really enjoyed the secretes and adventurous life of Kit.
I have read all of this series and I really enjoyed this one because it kept Kit home and not travelling. At one point I really was hopping that she would tell Simon or at least see what he knows. I loved how Ned knew already by observing and how he took it. I just wished that she could be open to her best friend who I know loves her as a friend and should understand the situation when it all is explained to him.
Will there be another in this series? I have really enjoyed the secretes and adventurous life of Kit.
September 22, 2017
Whole series is good.
The author brings Elizabethan London to life in this series. Her scholarship is excellent. Each book deals with a major event in Queen Elizabeth's reign. I'd characterize this novel as historical fiction rather than mystery but it still won't let you put it down until you finish.
The author brings Elizabethan London to life in this series. Her scholarship is excellent. Each book deals with a major event in Queen Elizabeth's reign. I'd characterize this novel as historical fiction rather than mystery but it still won't let you put it down until you finish.
September 24, 2018
This is my least favorite of Ms. Swinfen's books. It was as if she'd lost her way--I could not make any overall theme out of this. It was kind of a continuation of "The Play's the Thing," but she also kept returning to some of her old themes from other books in this series. Also, she didn't sync up the next book in the series in one specific area, where Simon was living. It was a miss-mash.
December 6, 2021
I enjoyed reading more about Kit Marlowe. These books really put you into Elizabethan London and outlying areas. I feel as if I've actually visited these areas. I'm already sad though because I know soon the series will end and there will be no more. I've come to look forward to the adventures of Dr. Alvarez.
June 26, 2017
Profound
This book held my attention as few books I have ever read. Ann Swinfen's exploration of the mystery of Marlowe and his most famous play, Faustus, was soul gripping. It left me with many insights and questions into my own life as well as life itself.
This book held my attention as few books I have ever read. Ann Swinfen's exploration of the mystery of Marlowe and his most famous play, Faustus, was soul gripping. It left me with many insights and questions into my own life as well as life itself.
June 29, 2017
Great series
I was engrossed with the story, every single well drawn character, impeccable logic and intelligence, but, I want more. What will happy to Christoval, Simon? O woe, it is left undone.
I was engrossed with the story, every single well drawn character, impeccable logic and intelligence, but, I want more. What will happy to Christoval, Simon? O woe, it is left undone.
October 9, 2017
Excellent in every way
Excellent in every way...characters, plot, historic accuracy...informative, engaging. Read this series in order to truly enjoy the extended plot and it's time in history.
Excellent in every way...characters, plot, historic accuracy...informative, engaging. Read this series in order to truly enjoy the extended plot and it's time in history.
December 16, 2017
Good book, but no mystery
This one is more historical novel than mystery. But I enjoy Ann Swinfen's writing enough to say ok. But hopefully, the next one will have more mystery to it.
This one is more historical novel than mystery. But I enjoy Ann Swinfen's writing enough to say ok. But hopefully, the next one will have more mystery to it.
February 7, 2018
The only weak link in this series of books so far. Still a great, atmospheric story but the plot did very little for me and felt a bit like the author was just treading water until a more interesting story comes along.
November 28, 2021
Such a good series
I have been dreading this. I am almost out of books in this, one of my favorite series, ever. They are such good books and I will miss them greatly . They are just so darned good.
I have been dreading this. I am almost out of books in this, one of my favorite series, ever. They are such good books and I will miss them greatly . They are just so darned good.
July 25, 2017
Interesting
No end to Kit's life. Mind of wanted what took place. Would Kit be forever in limbo. I would have preferred a closing.
No end to Kit's life. Mind of wanted what took place. Would Kit be forever in limbo. I would have preferred a closing.
August 14, 2017
Fascinating!
I love this series. The individual books are wonderful reads, and the long term mystery of what will Kit do? continues to develop. Fascinating!
I love this series. The individual books are wonderful reads, and the long term mystery of what will Kit do? continues to develop. Fascinating!
January 8, 2018
More, please! This is a terrific period series.
March 26, 2021
Although I enjoyed this book, I don’t think it’s as good as the previous ones. There wasn’t as much cohesion to the plot as usual but still well worth reading
September 14, 2022
This book has no plot.
December 31, 2016
4.5 Stars Wonderful!
No spoilers in this review (hopefully).
The book is a real bonus for me, and I suspect other fans of the series as Book 7 was meant to be the last. (I thought so anyway). The reasons why I thoroughly enjoyed this book are numerous. It is very well-written and edited, which makes reading a pleasure, although I did note one homophone and one typo (picky I know.) The historical events and conditions have been meticulously researched as is usual with this author (I checked some of them for my own satisfaction and got SO side tracked). The historical people are just as scrupulously researched and intertwine with fictional characters so effortlessly that the story flows without any distinction between the two to distract the reader.
There are several descriptive passages in the story that some readers may skim over, but for me they add more depth and colour to the rich tapestry of the historical places and events that are woven throughout the story. As the book synopsis says, London is in a troubled time, with almost seasonal outbreaks of plague, civil unrest from various causes, the number of beggars increasing daily and a general sense that the city is on the brink of ....... something. Life is cheap and the City Authorities and charitable institutions such as St Bartholomew's and St Thomas' hospitals are struggling to cope with the increase in violence, hardship and need.
The fictional cast are all three-dimensional and all my favourite (and not so favourite) are in this story to a greater or lesser degree. Kit, as the main character, takes her rightful place in prominence. She is still working as a physician at St Thomas's hospital in the children's ward and the unmarried mothers' lying-in ward, and the medical knowledge of the time, while considerably less than today, still amazes me. The Players are still her friends, although they are away for months on a tour of the counties. Simon plays a reasonably prominent role again, but shares the limelight with Marlow this time.
Towards the end of the book, Kit goes to the Playhouse to see Marlow's latest play, and the inclusion of long passages of the play is a masterpiece of writing. It pulled me in to the extent that I was sitting with Kit, feeling the tension build up in the theatre as "we" watched and listened as the play unfolded, and feeling the same relief when it finished. It was an incredibly realistic experience; and is relevant to the storyline. Kit is twenty-three years old now and I wonder how much longer her charade can last?
What a marvellous weaver of tales Ann Swinfen is; a truly gifted storyteller.
Do I recommend this book? Yes, I do!
No spoilers in this review (hopefully).
The book is a real bonus for me, and I suspect other fans of the series as Book 7 was meant to be the last. (I thought so anyway). The reasons why I thoroughly enjoyed this book are numerous. It is very well-written and edited, which makes reading a pleasure, although I did note one homophone and one typo (picky I know.) The historical events and conditions have been meticulously researched as is usual with this author (I checked some of them for my own satisfaction and got SO side tracked). The historical people are just as scrupulously researched and intertwine with fictional characters so effortlessly that the story flows without any distinction between the two to distract the reader.
There are several descriptive passages in the story that some readers may skim over, but for me they add more depth and colour to the rich tapestry of the historical places and events that are woven throughout the story. As the book synopsis says, London is in a troubled time, with almost seasonal outbreaks of plague, civil unrest from various causes, the number of beggars increasing daily and a general sense that the city is on the brink of ....... something. Life is cheap and the City Authorities and charitable institutions such as St Bartholomew's and St Thomas' hospitals are struggling to cope with the increase in violence, hardship and need.
The fictional cast are all three-dimensional and all my favourite (and not so favourite) are in this story to a greater or lesser degree. Kit, as the main character, takes her rightful place in prominence. She is still working as a physician at St Thomas's hospital in the children's ward and the unmarried mothers' lying-in ward, and the medical knowledge of the time, while considerably less than today, still amazes me. The Players are still her friends, although they are away for months on a tour of the counties. Simon plays a reasonably prominent role again, but shares the limelight with Marlow this time.
Towards the end of the book, Kit goes to the Playhouse to see Marlow's latest play, and the inclusion of long passages of the play is a masterpiece of writing. It pulled me in to the extent that I was sitting with Kit, feeling the tension build up in the theatre as "we" watched and listened as the play unfolded, and feeling the same relief when it finished. It was an incredibly realistic experience; and is relevant to the storyline. Kit is twenty-three years old now and I wonder how much longer her charade can last?
What a marvellous weaver of tales Ann Swinfen is; a truly gifted storyteller.
Do I recommend this book? Yes, I do!
February 10, 2017
Disappointing in that this did nothing to advance Kit's situation and he/she is simply a passive observer as events unfold around her/him. Well-written as usual and the historical setting is vivid
December 22, 2016
This is a really excellent series with accurate historical detail and emotional depth as well as thoughtful social commentary found in the mix of real and imagined characters living in 16th Century London. The title led me to believe it could be the end, but now having read this 8th book I feel certain I can look forward to the next book. Dr. Alvarez continues to live and work hard as a physician serving the poor in Southwark. Plague and Prejudice are two main players in this book as the poor of London are hit hard by the plague, lack of work and lack of food. Christopher Marlowe's work is featured with many quotes. "Will" Shakespeare is also part of the cast of characters.
Great book - don't want to ruin it for other fans with too much detail.
Great book - don't want to ruin it for other fans with too much detail.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews