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Nicholas Shelby #1
The Angel's Mark
'A gorgeous book - rich, intelligent and dark in equal measure... Historical fiction at its most sumptuous.' Rory Clements
LONDON, 1590. Queen Elizabeth I's control over her kingdom is wavering. Amidst a tumultuous backdrop of Spanish plotters, Catholic heretics and foreign wars threatening the country's fragile stability, the body of a small boy is found in the City of London, with strange marks that no one can explain.
When idealistic physician Nicholas Shelby finds another body displaying the same marks only days later, he becomes convinced that a killer is at work, preying on the weak and destitute of London.
Determined to find out who is behind these terrible murders, Nicholas is joined in his investigations by Bianca, a mysterious tavern keeper. As more bodies are discovered, the pair find themselves caught in the middle of a sinister plot. With the killer still at large, and Bianca in terrible danger, Nicholas's choice seems impossible - to save Bianca, or save himself...
LONDON, 1590. Queen Elizabeth I's control over her kingdom is wavering. Amidst a tumultuous backdrop of Spanish plotters, Catholic heretics and foreign wars threatening the country's fragile stability, the body of a small boy is found in the City of London, with strange marks that no one can explain.
When idealistic physician Nicholas Shelby finds another body displaying the same marks only days later, he becomes convinced that a killer is at work, preying on the weak and destitute of London.
Determined to find out who is behind these terrible murders, Nicholas is joined in his investigations by Bianca, a mysterious tavern keeper. As more bodies are discovered, the pair find themselves caught in the middle of a sinister plot. With the killer still at large, and Bianca in terrible danger, Nicholas's choice seems impossible - to save Bianca, or save himself...
424 pages, Hardcover
First published September 6, 2018
1345 people are currently reading
2014 people want to read
About the author
S.W. Perry
11 books133 followersS. W. Perry was a journalist and broadcaster before retraining as an airline pilot. He lives in Worcestershire, England with his wife.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
August 10, 2018
SW Perry's debut is set in Elizabethan England with a medical profession that is often more of a danger to their patients than of any help, and which works side by side with the Barber-Surgeons. It is 1570 in London, Catholics are hunted as paranoia spreads about plots to overthrow Queen Elizabeth. Suffolk yeoman, Dr Nicholas Shelby, notices strange signs on the body of a young crippled boy that suggest he was murdered. However, the boy is a nobody and no one wants to hear Shelby's suspicions, least of all the medical profession or the law. When Shelby is unable to prevent the death of his beloved wife, Eleanor, and his unborn child, he descends into the deepest pit of grief, misery and despair, losing his bearings and losing everything. He ends up washed up on the banks of the River Thames, where he is rescued by half Italian Mistress Bianca Merton, owner of the Jackdaw Tavern, utilising her considerable skills as an apothecary to ensure that Shelby survives. Rumours abound that Bianca is a witch and there are concerted efforts to ensure women are kept out of a profession that is deemed for men alone.
When Shelby comes across another body with similar markings, he is determined to find the killer, even if nobody else believes him or cares about the poor and afflicted victims. Taking up a position as a physician at St Tom's, he begins to pick up the threads of his career again. It soon becomes clear there are many more victims of the killer. Young Elise Cullen takes her younger crippled brother, Ralph, to look for sanctuary with a supposedly wealthy relative after it becomes clear that her prostitute mother cannot care for them, and constitutes a danger. Carrying her brother as she walks, they encounter an 'angel' offering them help but it all turns out to be a horrifying nightmare from which Elise barely escapes with her life, her brother lost. Bianca joins forces with Shelby in his quest to unmask the murderer. Shelby seeks the help of the goodly John Lumley to help him, asking to using his famously well stocked medical library. Lumley accedes to the request, being a man of progress and inquiry in the face of so many in medicine who feel there is nothing more to discover and instead evoke religion and God's will when they so often failed to heal. Encountering blackmail, betrayal, and desperate danger, Shelby and Bianca are forced to be resourceful and rely on their wits to lift themselves out of the dire circumstances they find themselves in.
To be honest, I had to read a third of the book before the story took off for me, mostly because of the level of detachment in the narrative. However, once I became absorbed, I was completely hooked by this tense and suspenseful tale and in its richly detailed picture of the historical period with its deployment of real characters from that time. The social attitudes of the era are well captured along with the behind scenes political machinations of the powerful. Medical knowledge and progress is poor, and there are professional rivalries, and a desire to close down any competitors such as apothecaries in what truly is a man's world. I ended up really enjoying this wonderful piece of historical fiction and recommend it highly to those who are fans of historical mysteries and/or interested in the Elizabethan period. Many thanks to Atlantic Books for an ARC.
When Shelby comes across another body with similar markings, he is determined to find the killer, even if nobody else believes him or cares about the poor and afflicted victims. Taking up a position as a physician at St Tom's, he begins to pick up the threads of his career again. It soon becomes clear there are many more victims of the killer. Young Elise Cullen takes her younger crippled brother, Ralph, to look for sanctuary with a supposedly wealthy relative after it becomes clear that her prostitute mother cannot care for them, and constitutes a danger. Carrying her brother as she walks, they encounter an 'angel' offering them help but it all turns out to be a horrifying nightmare from which Elise barely escapes with her life, her brother lost. Bianca joins forces with Shelby in his quest to unmask the murderer. Shelby seeks the help of the goodly John Lumley to help him, asking to using his famously well stocked medical library. Lumley accedes to the request, being a man of progress and inquiry in the face of so many in medicine who feel there is nothing more to discover and instead evoke religion and God's will when they so often failed to heal. Encountering blackmail, betrayal, and desperate danger, Shelby and Bianca are forced to be resourceful and rely on their wits to lift themselves out of the dire circumstances they find themselves in.
To be honest, I had to read a third of the book before the story took off for me, mostly because of the level of detachment in the narrative. However, once I became absorbed, I was completely hooked by this tense and suspenseful tale and in its richly detailed picture of the historical period with its deployment of real characters from that time. The social attitudes of the era are well captured along with the behind scenes political machinations of the powerful. Medical knowledge and progress is poor, and there are professional rivalries, and a desire to close down any competitors such as apothecaries in what truly is a man's world. I ended up really enjoying this wonderful piece of historical fiction and recommend it highly to those who are fans of historical mysteries and/or interested in the Elizabethan period. Many thanks to Atlantic Books for an ARC.
June 6, 2020
This was excellent! What a refreshing change to read a novel of the Tudor times with a fresh voice and where religion and politics are the backdrop to a human interest story. Having a physician and a tavern keeper as the main protagonists was another interesting feature. I have read many Tudor stories but rarely is Nonsuch mentioned. I went to Nonsuch grammar school and was always highly disappointed that the palace no longer existed. What a tragic waste for it to be demolished! It was also interesting to me that the reason the author gives for the name ‘Nonsuch’ is a completely different one to the one given by my headmistress when I first started at Nonsuch! Can’t wait to read the next in series.
September 11, 2018
When a book comes with a glowing recommendation from a respected author of historical fiction like Rory Clements (whose ‘John Shakespeare’ series I absolutely love by the way), you have a real sense of expectation as you turn the first few pages. I’m happy to say that in the case of The Angel’s Mark those first few pages – and all the pages after that, as it happens – didn’t disappoint.
As other writers of historical fiction have discovered, the latter part of the 16th century is a promising period in which to set a historical crime novel. Fear of the plague, of plots to overthrow the Queen as well as concerns about the succession and the threat of possible invasion have created an atmosphere of suspicion in Elizabethan England. It’s a time when information, in the form of intelligence gathered by a network of spies and informers, has become a valuable commodity. It’s also a time when discoveries in science and medicine are coming into conflict with religious belief.
Personal tragedy, fueled by a sense of guilt at his inability to prevent it, has brought Nicholas Shelby to the point of despair when he chances upon a mystery that reawakens his physician’s curiosity; that, and a fortunate encounter with the independent-minded and resourceful Bianca Merton, owner of The Jackdaw tavern. However, as the reader will discover, it’s not just her skills as an apothecary that Bianca must hide. Together they embark on a search for a killer with a distinctive but gruesome calling card. Soon that search brings them into contact with powerful men (it would be a surprise in a novel set in this period not to run into a member of the Cecil family at some point!) who may pose as much of a risk as does the ruthless killer they are seeking.
The Angel’s Mark has all the ingredients I look for in a great historical crime mystery: a wealth of period of detail that conjures up the sight, sounds and smells of the time; a host of colourful characters to provide possible suspects; and a plot full of twists and turns with a generous helping of red herrings and “I wasn’t expecting that” moments. It kept me guessing right to the end. I’m definitely hoping for more of the same from this author in the future.
I received a review copy courtesy of publishers, Corvus, NetGalley and Readers First in return for an honest and unbiased review.
As other writers of historical fiction have discovered, the latter part of the 16th century is a promising period in which to set a historical crime novel. Fear of the plague, of plots to overthrow the Queen as well as concerns about the succession and the threat of possible invasion have created an atmosphere of suspicion in Elizabethan England. It’s a time when information, in the form of intelligence gathered by a network of spies and informers, has become a valuable commodity. It’s also a time when discoveries in science and medicine are coming into conflict with religious belief.
Personal tragedy, fueled by a sense of guilt at his inability to prevent it, has brought Nicholas Shelby to the point of despair when he chances upon a mystery that reawakens his physician’s curiosity; that, and a fortunate encounter with the independent-minded and resourceful Bianca Merton, owner of The Jackdaw tavern. However, as the reader will discover, it’s not just her skills as an apothecary that Bianca must hide. Together they embark on a search for a killer with a distinctive but gruesome calling card. Soon that search brings them into contact with powerful men (it would be a surprise in a novel set in this period not to run into a member of the Cecil family at some point!) who may pose as much of a risk as does the ruthless killer they are seeking.
The Angel’s Mark has all the ingredients I look for in a great historical crime mystery: a wealth of period of detail that conjures up the sight, sounds and smells of the time; a host of colourful characters to provide possible suspects; and a plot full of twists and turns with a generous helping of red herrings and “I wasn’t expecting that” moments. It kept me guessing right to the end. I’m definitely hoping for more of the same from this author in the future.
I received a review copy courtesy of publishers, Corvus, NetGalley and Readers First in return for an honest and unbiased review.
June 21, 2023
Atmospheric historic story with a great level of detail depicting the stinking cesspit that was London. At the time it was best to avoid having your own thoughts on religion or it was off to the Tower for a period of convalescence.
August 30, 2022
As a fan of C J Sansom's Shardlake series I was intrigued by this historical setting - later than the Shardlake novels it is set towards the end of Elizabeth I's reign - combined with a murder mystery that protagonist Nicholas Shelby, physician, is driven to solve and hence save other lives.
As the story begins, Shelby attends a post mortem lecture given by a rather unpleasant senior at the College of Physicians. Shelby spots clear signs that the dead boy with deformed legs has been murdered, but his superior won't entertain the notion and doesn't care anyway as he views the death of a probable beggar a good thing. Unfortunately Shelby's determination to find out who the boy was and who murdered him is derailed when he loses his wife and baby in childbirth. I have sympathy for anyone in this position in real life, but reading a work of fiction which takes the form of a whodunnit, with other victims suffering miserable ends as the story progressed, I rather lost patience with Nicholas' descent into an alcoholic pit of despair. Eventually another character, who becomes a secondary protagonist, rescues him and the plot is finally able to move forward albeit slowly and unsurely. It picks up a bit towards the end but that is in contrast to the drawn out pace of the rest of it. In fact, out of boredom I read a short zombie novella just for a break about halfway through before coming back to find out what happened.
There is a very clear portrayal throughout the story of the callous indifference or even downright hostility of the well off in society towards those they regard as shiftless liabilities. Other aspects of sixteenth century life include xenophobia towards foreigners and sexist attitudes to women - although when one character voiced an opinion about the abominable nature of bluestockings I did think it bordered on treason given that the Queen was a woman of prodigious learning.
The style in which the book is written is rather distracting. Multiple viewpoints are used - sections are from the points of view of other people involved - and there is some intrusion of an omniscient narrator and occasional head hopping - but the real issue for me is the use of present tense throughout. It is more 'natural' for a first person narrative to use that, but in a story written in third person, for me at least, it becomes rather intrusive and leads occasionally to some rambling indirect prose. Altogether, I can only rate this an OK 2 stars.
As the story begins, Shelby attends a post mortem lecture given by a rather unpleasant senior at the College of Physicians. Shelby spots clear signs that the dead boy with deformed legs has been murdered, but his superior won't entertain the notion and doesn't care anyway as he views the death of a probable beggar a good thing. Unfortunately Shelby's determination to find out who the boy was and who murdered him is derailed when he loses his wife and baby in childbirth. I have sympathy for anyone in this position in real life, but reading a work of fiction which takes the form of a whodunnit, with other victims suffering miserable ends as the story progressed, I rather lost patience with Nicholas' descent into an alcoholic pit of despair. Eventually another character, who becomes a secondary protagonist, rescues him and the plot is finally able to move forward albeit slowly and unsurely. It picks up a bit towards the end but that is in contrast to the drawn out pace of the rest of it. In fact, out of boredom I read a short zombie novella just for a break about halfway through before coming back to find out what happened.
There is a very clear portrayal throughout the story of the callous indifference or even downright hostility of the well off in society towards those they regard as shiftless liabilities. Other aspects of sixteenth century life include xenophobia towards foreigners and sexist attitudes to women - although when one character voiced an opinion about the abominable nature of bluestockings I did think it bordered on treason given that the Queen was a woman of prodigious learning.
The style in which the book is written is rather distracting. Multiple viewpoints are used - sections are from the points of view of other people involved - and there is some intrusion of an omniscient narrator and occasional head hopping - but the real issue for me is the use of present tense throughout. It is more 'natural' for a first person narrative to use that, but in a story written in third person, for me at least, it becomes rather intrusive and leads occasionally to some rambling indirect prose. Altogether, I can only rate this an OK 2 stars.
January 25, 2021
4.25*
Don’t you love it when you find a great read by chance? This book was available through my library and I gave it a go. Well, it turned out to be a great historical mystery set in Elizabethan time. Weirdly this is the second book I’ve read this month set in that period, and I must admit my curiosity is piqued. Need to find a good history book...
Coming back to the mystery, Perry takes his time creating this 1590 London as well as fleshing out his characters, primary and secondary. His weaving of ‘reality' and fiction is expertly done, the result complex and fascinating, full of intrigue. It is a harsh and unfair world however - tough time to be an idealist or in any way ‘different’ - and the author shows that too, from different points of views. In all, excellent! Can’t wait to try the next one :O)
Don’t you love it when you find a great read by chance? This book was available through my library and I gave it a go. Well, it turned out to be a great historical mystery set in Elizabethan time. Weirdly this is the second book I’ve read this month set in that period, and I must admit my curiosity is piqued. Need to find a good history book...
Coming back to the mystery, Perry takes his time creating this 1590 London as well as fleshing out his characters, primary and secondary. His weaving of ‘reality' and fiction is expertly done, the result complex and fascinating, full of intrigue. It is a harsh and unfair world however - tough time to be an idealist or in any way ‘different’ - and the author shows that too, from different points of views. In all, excellent! Can’t wait to try the next one :O)
January 29, 2019
interesting novel based in the late Elizabethan age with several unconnected murders with people being washed up from the thames its a mixture of political spying and a crime thriller. can see the links with it being would interest c j Sansom fans
July 9, 2020
The Angel's Mark was my very first historical fiction novel set during the Tudors period, one which I do not know much about safe for the monarchs that ruled England at that time. And for that, I found the historical basis of the story to be fascinating and engaging despite that the murder mystery was quite slow-moving. The story was completely fictional, but its evocative backdrop provided a good representation of religion, politics and society to portray life during that period. Furthermore, as the main character was a physician, the practice of medicine during Elizabethan England was another interesting subject matter.
Nicholas Shelby was a well-written main character, whose development took a good one-third of the book before the story really took off. While it made for slow pacing initially, I think it was time well-spent for the reader to feel more invested in him. Altogether The Angel's Mark was an engaging historical murder mystery novel. Its great characters and fascinating period setting have sufficiently intrigued me to read the next book in the series, sometime in the future. It did take took me longer than usual to finish this book because I've just started on a new and challenging job after taking a year off work.
Nicholas Shelby was a well-written main character, whose development took a good one-third of the book before the story really took off. While it made for slow pacing initially, I think it was time well-spent for the reader to feel more invested in him. Altogether The Angel's Mark was an engaging historical murder mystery novel. Its great characters and fascinating period setting have sufficiently intrigued me to read the next book in the series, sometime in the future. It did take took me longer than usual to finish this book because I've just started on a new and challenging job after taking a year off work.
September 20, 2020
VERY SLOW AND MEANDERING. Not sure I'd be as satisfied if I paid full price. Skimmed past a lot of paragraphs.
You don't meet his "assistant" until something like 35% in, and the probably don't collaborate until 50% 🤔. Pov flits all over the place (hence MEANDERING) but once they hit stride I do like the duo. Will try book 2 as it's also in the kobo version of Kindle unlimited.
Illuminating slice of life (seriously never be a non noble in Elizabethan England... or get sick even if you are the Queen). Spotlights the lack of science, policing, the inequality of how the law was applied.
You don't meet his "assistant" until something like 35% in, and the probably don't collaborate until 50% 🤔. Pov flits all over the place (hence MEANDERING) but once they hit stride I do like the duo. Will try book 2 as it's also in the kobo version of Kindle unlimited.
Illuminating slice of life (seriously never be a non noble in Elizabethan England... or get sick even if you are the Queen). Spotlights the lack of science, policing, the inequality of how the law was applied.
August 26, 2018
Very enjoyable mystery set in late Elizabethan London. Somebody is preying upon the city's most vulnerable and it's up to Nicholas Shelby, a physician fallen on hard times, to find justice for these victims. Well-written, atmospheric and really interesting. 4-4.5 stars. Review to follow shortly on For Winter Nights.
September 6, 2018
The Angel’s Mark takes us from the dirty and grimy streets of London in the late 1500’s to the opulence of Nonsuch Palace, on a quest to find a serial killer.
A young boy’s body is pulled from the river Thames. With deformed lower limbs, it looks as if he was merely discarded. Nobody seems to know who he is, nor care about what happened to him. Except for physician Nicholas Shelby, an expectant father, who notices a mark on the young boy’s leg during an anatomy lecture. Nicholas is determined to investigate. Until a bereavement casts doubt on everything he thought he knew and he falls into a deep pit of despair.
Then he meets Bianca, a tavern keeper, although she is far more than that. And when more bodies with the same mark on their leg start to show up, Nicholas and Bianca find themselves in the middle of a dark and sinister plot. Can they find the killer before they claim another victim? And will they escape with their lives?
I do love me some historical fiction and this is done particularly well. Set during a rather tumultuous time in the Elizabethan era, The Angel’s Mark oozes atmosphere. S.W. Perry has very clearly done his research and with vivid descriptions of the sights, sounds and smells of the streets of London, I quickly felt myself completely transported.
For us modern readers, it’s not always easy to understand what life was like in those days. Not only is there the relentless hunt for catholic heretics and people hiding their true religion, but there are also a lot of misconceptions. Physicians draw up astrological charts, for instance, to help with a diagnosis. What we know now about the human body, was awfully incomplete at the time, including how blood travels around the body. Despite the fact a woman held an incredibly prestigious position at the university of Padua years earlier, women were not allowed in the field of medicine and any use of even herbal concoctions would quickly earn them the label of witch.
Despite finding the beginning of the novel a bit on the slow side, I found myself utterly captivated. Full of deceit and conspiracies and with no idea who to trust, the author kept me guessing until the end as I couldn’t at all figure out the who or the why. The Angel’s Mark is brilliantly written, cleverly plotted and an absolutely wonderful historical fiction serial killer mystery. This is S.W. Perry’s debut novel and it promises a whole lot of good things in the future.
A young boy’s body is pulled from the river Thames. With deformed lower limbs, it looks as if he was merely discarded. Nobody seems to know who he is, nor care about what happened to him. Except for physician Nicholas Shelby, an expectant father, who notices a mark on the young boy’s leg during an anatomy lecture. Nicholas is determined to investigate. Until a bereavement casts doubt on everything he thought he knew and he falls into a deep pit of despair.
Then he meets Bianca, a tavern keeper, although she is far more than that. And when more bodies with the same mark on their leg start to show up, Nicholas and Bianca find themselves in the middle of a dark and sinister plot. Can they find the killer before they claim another victim? And will they escape with their lives?
I do love me some historical fiction and this is done particularly well. Set during a rather tumultuous time in the Elizabethan era, The Angel’s Mark oozes atmosphere. S.W. Perry has very clearly done his research and with vivid descriptions of the sights, sounds and smells of the streets of London, I quickly felt myself completely transported.
For us modern readers, it’s not always easy to understand what life was like in those days. Not only is there the relentless hunt for catholic heretics and people hiding their true religion, but there are also a lot of misconceptions. Physicians draw up astrological charts, for instance, to help with a diagnosis. What we know now about the human body, was awfully incomplete at the time, including how blood travels around the body. Despite the fact a woman held an incredibly prestigious position at the university of Padua years earlier, women were not allowed in the field of medicine and any use of even herbal concoctions would quickly earn them the label of witch.
Despite finding the beginning of the novel a bit on the slow side, I found myself utterly captivated. Full of deceit and conspiracies and with no idea who to trust, the author kept me guessing until the end as I couldn’t at all figure out the who or the why. The Angel’s Mark is brilliantly written, cleverly plotted and an absolutely wonderful historical fiction serial killer mystery. This is S.W. Perry’s debut novel and it promises a whole lot of good things in the future.
August 8, 2018
This story is set in Elizabethan England and explores the nature of medicine at the time. There are physicians and barber-surgeons and very incorrect views about how blood travels around the body. Women are not allowed to practice medicine despite their previous positions in Padua. This provides the backdrop for a murder story involving Nicholas and Bianca - two characters I’d really like to learn more about in future books. Nicholas is a physician and the story starts with him attending the ‘autopsy’ of a young boy who has been fished from the river. Nicholas is convinced that he has been murdered but, before he can get anyone interested in his theory, his wife dies in childbirth and he abandons his profession in his grief, He is later rescued but a tavern owner and ‘medic’ Bianca. She, and a couple other women, are strong female characters in a male world but a friendship blossoms between them. Nicholas then sees another body he is sure has been killed in the same way as the boy we met st the beginning. There are some real historical figures included in the story and the struggles with religion are also evident. I very much enjoyed this book and will look out for any sequels.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2024
A new author for me, sold as a mystery in the Elizabethan era, which slots into my “extended” renaissance genre where I’m trying to expand my knowledge & feel for the period.
Its very slow, not much happening at all in terms of landscape or historical content, a mystery is being inserted into the text but as yet nobody is really picking at the thread, jus seems to be a random bunch of characters with little or no purpose…. I’m not very sold as the 100 page demarcation approaches……… however at reaching that point, the story takes a considerable upturn with the developing intrigue/relation between Nicholas Shelby (whose now back in the land of the living!) and Bianca the tavern mistress who saved him from the river. Characterisations finally appear, at a much-needed time! We also have a further murder, this one more obvious but there seems an undercurrent at official level to keep it under wraps.
It is a slow start but I say stick with it as the writing does develop & we get a decent mystery-based story.
I found that the storyline around Nicholas/Bianca easier (more enjoyable) to follow than the other characters that flit in/out of the plotlines who I jus had no tract with at all.
Overall I've 3 starred it as it did take me a while to get through it & i drifted at times but in all honesty my focus on reading wasn't that intent during this period.....
Its very slow, not much happening at all in terms of landscape or historical content, a mystery is being inserted into the text but as yet nobody is really picking at the thread, jus seems to be a random bunch of characters with little or no purpose…. I’m not very sold as the 100 page demarcation approaches……… however at reaching that point, the story takes a considerable upturn with the developing intrigue/relation between Nicholas Shelby (whose now back in the land of the living!) and Bianca the tavern mistress who saved him from the river. Characterisations finally appear, at a much-needed time! We also have a further murder, this one more obvious but there seems an undercurrent at official level to keep it under wraps.
It is a slow start but I say stick with it as the writing does develop & we get a decent mystery-based story.
I found that the storyline around Nicholas/Bianca easier (more enjoyable) to follow than the other characters that flit in/out of the plotlines who I jus had no tract with at all.
Overall I've 3 starred it as it did take me a while to get through it & i drifted at times but in all honesty my focus on reading wasn't that intent during this period.....
September 7, 2018
My two favourite genres are crime and historical fiction, particularly from the Tudor period so this novel ticked all of the boxes. When I have read novels from this period they have mostly been set in and around the courts and palaces. This novel is unique with it being set in the less affluent areas of London, in this case Bankside which is in Southwark. This is an area whose inhabitants live in poverty, some are diseased and their entertainment is the bear pits and the hostelries in the area. They live in fear of being charged with heresy or being branded for a crime. When people from their community are found in the river, all with similar wounds they are regarded as unimportant and the ones who have the power are just happy that the victims are not from their own class.
It is fascinating to read. I felt like I was read a true reflection of what it was like to live at this time. The differences between Bankside and Nonsuch Palace were extreme. The attitudes to women and what their choices in life would be. There was no chance at all of women working in medicine, and the chances were that any woman who could help people who were suffering with illness would be regarded with scepticism. I found it very interesting reading the thoughts about how the human body worked. And how some wouldn’t accept any other explanation.
The small part of the novel that involved the torture chamber was just enough.I think if there had been more it would have less of an impact. The poignant touch made it more real, combined with the violence that preceded it. I liked Nicholas, Bianca and Ned a lot. If this is the first book in a new series I will be keen to get to know them all more. And understand more about what it was to live in these times.
It was one of those novels where I spent a lot of time looking on the internet for more information. Or in the kindle dictionary at the various foods, drink and herbal remedies. I also spent time looking at Bankside, an area I never knew existed.
A brilliant debut novel, I’m looking forward to more by this author.
It is fascinating to read. I felt like I was read a true reflection of what it was like to live at this time. The differences between Bankside and Nonsuch Palace were extreme. The attitudes to women and what their choices in life would be. There was no chance at all of women working in medicine, and the chances were that any woman who could help people who were suffering with illness would be regarded with scepticism. I found it very interesting reading the thoughts about how the human body worked. And how some wouldn’t accept any other explanation.
The small part of the novel that involved the torture chamber was just enough.I think if there had been more it would have less of an impact. The poignant touch made it more real, combined with the violence that preceded it. I liked Nicholas, Bianca and Ned a lot. If this is the first book in a new series I will be keen to get to know them all more. And understand more about what it was to live in these times.
It was one of those novels where I spent a lot of time looking on the internet for more information. Or in the kindle dictionary at the various foods, drink and herbal remedies. I also spent time looking at Bankside, an area I never knew existed.
A brilliant debut novel, I’m looking forward to more by this author.
September 3, 2018
Someone is killing people and leaving marks on them. And there is just one person who finds this strange. But then why would the rest care, poor people die all the time.
Nicholas is a physician. A good man. An honest man. And then he kind of looses himself. Poor man.
I find it hard to review this one without saying too much. I did not expect it to be this hard.
So, it is a country of suspicion. You have to belong to the right church or else!
A woman doing a man's job! Take her down!
And physicians doing what they think is best (ugh, medicine in those days wasn't the best as you can imagine.)
And when Nicholas goes a bit ...crazy, no one gets why. Idiots.
It is not an easy mystery to solve. Usually some clues are found in books, but here, nothing. This is a killer that knows how to hide and as the pages got fewer and fewer and did not know if he ever would find the answer.
And of course I never saw it coming, but how could I? Neither did he.
I wonder why authors like mystery books in Elizabethan England, because I have read a few. Weird. Must be a good setting! And it is with all the things going on in the background.
Nicholas is a physician. A good man. An honest man. And then he kind of looses himself. Poor man.
I find it hard to review this one without saying too much. I did not expect it to be this hard.
So, it is a country of suspicion. You have to belong to the right church or else!
A woman doing a man's job! Take her down!
And physicians doing what they think is best (ugh, medicine in those days wasn't the best as you can imagine.)
And when Nicholas goes a bit ...crazy, no one gets why. Idiots.
It is not an easy mystery to solve. Usually some clues are found in books, but here, nothing. This is a killer that knows how to hide and as the pages got fewer and fewer and did not know if he ever would find the answer.
And of course I never saw it coming, but how could I? Neither did he.
I wonder why authors like mystery books in Elizabethan England, because I have read a few. Weird. Must be a good setting! And it is with all the things going on in the background.
September 11, 2018
Most periods in English history are darkened by either war, conflicts about the who sits on the throne, and of course religion. The Elizabethan era is no exception, and is defined not only by the strong female monarch, but also by the religious friction caused by Henry VIII and his merry-go-round of wives and mistresses.
Heresy is a felony, and there are plenty of people willing to whisper in the ears of the authorities to rid themselves of someone they dislike or feel slighted by. A dangerous time when you consider the punishment doesn’t in any way fit the crime or the alleged crime. Torture, death, healers being burnt at the stake for witchcraft. Denouncements are a sign of the times.
The main character is a physician called Nicholas Shelby, who finds evidence of a murder, but there is a lack of interest in his discovery. Before he can find out why a crippled child has been thrown in the river like trash, he suffers a horrific personal tragedy that changes his entire outlook on life.
Gone is the curious man of science, the man dedicated to healing and understanding diseases. Faded is the husband and the admired man of the medical community. A chance encounter draws him back into the world of a ruthless killer, who goes unseen because the destitute and homeless are invisible. Nobody notices when the expendable members of society turn up dead.
Perry writes a good mystery. It’s a slow burner, however I personally think it’s exactly the right way to go when it comes to historical fiction. The ambience, surroundings and historical context set the stage for a murder story, which is hopefully just the beginning for Nicholas Shelby. Hint, hint, write another one.
It’s definitely reminiscent of C.J. Sansom, but with more of a Ken Follett pace, meticulous plotting and a Frankenstein Chronicles vibe. Perry has definitely made his mark with this book. Intricate plotting with authentic characters and the potential for further ventures into the life of the heartbroken physician make this a great read.
*I received a copy courtesy of the publisher*
Heresy is a felony, and there are plenty of people willing to whisper in the ears of the authorities to rid themselves of someone they dislike or feel slighted by. A dangerous time when you consider the punishment doesn’t in any way fit the crime or the alleged crime. Torture, death, healers being burnt at the stake for witchcraft. Denouncements are a sign of the times.
The main character is a physician called Nicholas Shelby, who finds evidence of a murder, but there is a lack of interest in his discovery. Before he can find out why a crippled child has been thrown in the river like trash, he suffers a horrific personal tragedy that changes his entire outlook on life.
Gone is the curious man of science, the man dedicated to healing and understanding diseases. Faded is the husband and the admired man of the medical community. A chance encounter draws him back into the world of a ruthless killer, who goes unseen because the destitute and homeless are invisible. Nobody notices when the expendable members of society turn up dead.
Perry writes a good mystery. It’s a slow burner, however I personally think it’s exactly the right way to go when it comes to historical fiction. The ambience, surroundings and historical context set the stage for a murder story, which is hopefully just the beginning for Nicholas Shelby. Hint, hint, write another one.
It’s definitely reminiscent of C.J. Sansom, but with more of a Ken Follett pace, meticulous plotting and a Frankenstein Chronicles vibe. Perry has definitely made his mark with this book. Intricate plotting with authentic characters and the potential for further ventures into the life of the heartbroken physician make this a great read.
*I received a copy courtesy of the publisher*
December 13, 2020
This was excellent: a well-balanced blend of politics and sleuthing, with well-rounded, sympathetic characters and a really evocative sense of place (the Lazare House scenes gave me chills).
April 28, 2024
Elizabethian romp. Brings the time period to life. If you are a lover of historical fiction then this is for you
February 23, 2019
Tudor fiction set at the end of Elizabeth I reign. A good read and shall certainly pick up the next in the series.
August 19, 2020
This book is a fantastic premise hampered by weak execution. Whilst at first the use of present tense was jarring, I could overlook it for the most part, until it forced some clumsy and laboured writing in parts. However the main flaw is in the structure of the plot, particularly in the first third which adds little. The style is heavy on narration, and some important moments are glossed over when greater depth what have given a greater emotional punch, and there were too many filler scenes that added nothing but a drag to the overall momentum of the story.
Character motivations were patchy at best, none of the characters felt like proper fleshed out individuals and they lacked agency, they existed to let the plot happen to them. The protagonist is entirely unsympathetic for the first half (even though I get the feeling the author was trying to make him likeable) and bumbling throughout the second half. John Lumley is far too unquestioning and trustworthy and Bianca seems to lose all street wise intelligence because Nicholas hasn’t written to her? Added to this a plethora of side characters that exist purely for plot points and you end up with a cast that ceases to resemble an actual group of people.
If the author had cut out the filler, expanded on dramatic points, fleshed out his main cast and given them more agency, the premise and plot would have been enough to warrant at least four stars - unfortunately there were too many times I wanted to throw the book out of the window to be anything other than two stars.
Character motivations were patchy at best, none of the characters felt like proper fleshed out individuals and they lacked agency, they existed to let the plot happen to them. The protagonist is entirely unsympathetic for the first half (even though I get the feeling the author was trying to make him likeable) and bumbling throughout the second half. John Lumley is far too unquestioning and trustworthy and Bianca seems to lose all street wise intelligence because Nicholas hasn’t written to her? Added to this a plethora of side characters that exist purely for plot points and you end up with a cast that ceases to resemble an actual group of people.
If the author had cut out the filler, expanded on dramatic points, fleshed out his main cast and given them more agency, the premise and plot would have been enough to warrant at least four stars - unfortunately there were too many times I wanted to throw the book out of the window to be anything other than two stars.
September 8, 2018
I only got halfway through this one before giving up on it. It was very slow and the mystery didn't grab me at all.
However, the writing was very literary and the characters did capture my heart. The feel of the book was very bleak, which to me is a sign of strong writing, as you really felt a part of those historical, hard times. The detail was amazing and the book was clearly well-researched. It just needed a little work on plot.
It's a shame this didn't work for me, as the Tudor times are one of my favourite eras, especially when Elizabeth I was on the throne. I would still give this author another chance with a different book, as the writing was beautiful.
The cover is gorgeous and matches the feel of the book well.
However, the writing was very literary and the characters did capture my heart. The feel of the book was very bleak, which to me is a sign of strong writing, as you really felt a part of those historical, hard times. The detail was amazing and the book was clearly well-researched. It just needed a little work on plot.
It's a shame this didn't work for me, as the Tudor times are one of my favourite eras, especially when Elizabeth I was on the throne. I would still give this author another chance with a different book, as the writing was beautiful.
The cover is gorgeous and matches the feel of the book well.
November 16, 2024
The start of a series by S.W. Perry a new author to me. Set in Elizabethan England of the late 1500s. Dr Nicholas Shelby's wife Eleanor dies in childbirth and he is unable to save her causing him to descend into the pit of despair and he throws himself into the Thames. Washed up and saved he sets out to rebuild his life. He is drawn into a world of intrigue, spies and murderers.
The main characters are Nicholas and Mistress Merton supported by Master Cecil and Lord Lumley. They are all strong characters but do complement each other. The story is slow to develop, lacking pace in parts. I did not quite get the feel of life's times or hardships nor enough of the evilness of the bad guys. An enjoyable enough read to venture to the next episode. 3 stars.
November 17, 2021
I'm about 30% through. The second body has been found. And honestly IDGAF. I'm bored. I don't care who the killer is. But using my detective skills I'm pretty sure that this story isn't going to suddenly tie up all of the story threads into a clever bow.
Next.
Next.
November 30, 2022
Set in Elizabethan England in 1590, the author creates a world around a physician. Dr Nicholas Shelby is a young doctor and one that doesn't always believe in the old ways. New research is coming forward but this is a time when heretics, herbalists and witchcraft are not accepted. A licence is required to carry out basic medicine unless you are lucky enough to be one of the learned gentlemen.
Shelby suffers a dramatic event in his life, which leads him astray and towards the banks of the Thames. Here he discovers something unnatural at work when the body of a child is discovered with a dubious symbol cut into the leg. With the help of local tavern owner Bianca, they discover that London's secrets are much deeper and more far-reaching than they ever imagined.
I do love good historical fiction that is full of murder and mayhem and this one is just the book to tick those boxes. The author doesn't just focus on the characters and the story but also brings in relevant and very interesting medical procedures, thoughts, practices and observations of the time. This extra detail is wonderfully woven into the story and adds something special.
England does have a Queen in the form of Elizabeth I, but the country is still settling after Henry VIII and his dissolution of the Roman Catholic Church. It was Elizabeth that restored Catholicism with the Pope as its head, but she also established the Church of England with herself as the head. At this time religion is something that you are expected to take part in and if you do not attend the right Church it can hamper your future career. Shelby discovers that religion isn't the only way your career can be ruined. Medicine had its own rules, regulations and thoughts and to rock that particular boat is to court trouble.
As well as Shelby's story, there is another mysterious one. It is a troubled and hurt soul that the author uses in this instance, these passages are italicised and they tell of hardship and loss.
This is brilliantly researched and I loved the way the author brings in politics, religion, medicine and opinions of the time into the story. This is well-researched and the author obviously likes this era of history as he makes it exciting and so atmospheric. The different practices involved in medical practice are great, apothecary, witchcraft, herbalists, astrologers, divination and all manner of other tools used.
I really liked this and it is full of intrigue, suspicion, suspense, corruption and of course murder and mystery. Fabulous start to a series that I will definitely be keeping on with.
Shelby suffers a dramatic event in his life, which leads him astray and towards the banks of the Thames. Here he discovers something unnatural at work when the body of a child is discovered with a dubious symbol cut into the leg. With the help of local tavern owner Bianca, they discover that London's secrets are much deeper and more far-reaching than they ever imagined.
I do love good historical fiction that is full of murder and mayhem and this one is just the book to tick those boxes. The author doesn't just focus on the characters and the story but also brings in relevant and very interesting medical procedures, thoughts, practices and observations of the time. This extra detail is wonderfully woven into the story and adds something special.
England does have a Queen in the form of Elizabeth I, but the country is still settling after Henry VIII and his dissolution of the Roman Catholic Church. It was Elizabeth that restored Catholicism with the Pope as its head, but she also established the Church of England with herself as the head. At this time religion is something that you are expected to take part in and if you do not attend the right Church it can hamper your future career. Shelby discovers that religion isn't the only way your career can be ruined. Medicine had its own rules, regulations and thoughts and to rock that particular boat is to court trouble.
As well as Shelby's story, there is another mysterious one. It is a troubled and hurt soul that the author uses in this instance, these passages are italicised and they tell of hardship and loss.
This is brilliantly researched and I loved the way the author brings in politics, religion, medicine and opinions of the time into the story. This is well-researched and the author obviously likes this era of history as he makes it exciting and so atmospheric. The different practices involved in medical practice are great, apothecary, witchcraft, herbalists, astrologers, divination and all manner of other tools used.
I really liked this and it is full of intrigue, suspicion, suspense, corruption and of course murder and mystery. Fabulous start to a series that I will definitely be keeping on with.
September 11, 2018
WOW. Where do I start? Such a beautiful cover. Well I must start by admitting if I was to see this in a shop I probably wouldn’t have picked it up as it’s not what I usually read… HOWEVER, I am so so glad I got the chance to read this story cause it was bloody brilliant. I was shocked at how much I loved and enjoyed this book. I devoured it in two days and had a late night as I just had to finish it.
I was blown away to find that this was the authors debut as it was perfect! The story was told brilliantly and sets the scenes perfectly for the reader, taking them back to life in the 1950’s onwards. However, there is a murderer on loose… With the rise of bodies being found who will find the murderer? A dark story unfolds behind the murders. A few scenes I found dark but nothing too gorey! Gripping, thrilling…
The perfect historical fiction mystery! I would love to see this be turned into a film or tv series. As you can tell I am very impressed and was hooked! A real page turner. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
I absolutely fell in love with the main characters Nicholas and Bianca especially dreamy Nicholas. The outcome of this story is one you can’t even see or guess!!! You will not be disappointed. I don’t think I will evwr be able to forget this story and I will be raving about it as much as I can.
A bloody brilliant book! A massive five fabulous stars, highly! Highly! Recommend. Lastly, a well deserved place in my top 20 reads of 2018. The Angel’s Mark will be released 6th of September and I’d suggest you pre-order or add it to your list!
I was blown away to find that this was the authors debut as it was perfect! The story was told brilliantly and sets the scenes perfectly for the reader, taking them back to life in the 1950’s onwards. However, there is a murderer on loose… With the rise of bodies being found who will find the murderer? A dark story unfolds behind the murders. A few scenes I found dark but nothing too gorey! Gripping, thrilling…
The perfect historical fiction mystery! I would love to see this be turned into a film or tv series. As you can tell I am very impressed and was hooked! A real page turner. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
I absolutely fell in love with the main characters Nicholas and Bianca especially dreamy Nicholas. The outcome of this story is one you can’t even see or guess!!! You will not be disappointed. I don’t think I will evwr be able to forget this story and I will be raving about it as much as I can.
A bloody brilliant book! A massive five fabulous stars, highly! Highly! Recommend. Lastly, a well deserved place in my top 20 reads of 2018. The Angel’s Mark will be released 6th of September and I’d suggest you pre-order or add it to your list!
July 26, 2020
This was loads better than I expected it to be. It was a free read on Prime Reading so I thought I would give it a go.
As it was mystery set in the late 1500s I thought I knew what I would be getting. My preconceptions were that it would be a little bit Brother Gadfael mixed with Shardlake. I had a whole shelf of preconceptions ready top rumble as I began and as it happens they were all wrong.
This was a great little read. The story did NOT go where I expected it to at any pint in the narrative. Every time I thought I may have spotted a trope or common narrative arc my expectations were confounded. I liked that.
Our main protagonist goes through an unexpected story arc early in the tale. This is a harsh world and is it brought to life very effectively. The sense of place is strong and the story focused enough to allow the authors research and detail to be appreciated. I’m no expert of the times. I'm sure some some liberties were taken to fit ion with out modern sensibilities but they were not so obvious that they took you out of the story.
The character were well drawn and interesting. The mystery had a nice little twist and I liked the fact that the baddie was not all bad. The motivations of all the parties had an internal logic about them. The ending was good and made sense. This was no traditional murder mystery.
As I said, this was a good book, better than I had hoped for and one I enjoyed a lot. I’ll come back for more.
As it was mystery set in the late 1500s I thought I knew what I would be getting. My preconceptions were that it would be a little bit Brother Gadfael mixed with Shardlake. I had a whole shelf of preconceptions ready top rumble as I began and as it happens they were all wrong.
This was a great little read. The story did NOT go where I expected it to at any pint in the narrative. Every time I thought I may have spotted a trope or common narrative arc my expectations were confounded. I liked that.
Our main protagonist goes through an unexpected story arc early in the tale. This is a harsh world and is it brought to life very effectively. The sense of place is strong and the story focused enough to allow the authors research and detail to be appreciated. I’m no expert of the times. I'm sure some some liberties were taken to fit ion with out modern sensibilities but they were not so obvious that they took you out of the story.
The character were well drawn and interesting. The mystery had a nice little twist and I liked the fact that the baddie was not all bad. The motivations of all the parties had an internal logic about them. The ending was good and made sense. This was no traditional murder mystery.
As I said, this was a good book, better than I had hoped for and one I enjoyed a lot. I’ll come back for more.
September 14, 2018
As a time period, Elizabethan England is a perfect setting for a historical mystery.
For a country that’s riddled with suspicion through religion and plots, and constantly feels threatened by invasion, it easily conveys a sense of those who are ignored and seen as vermin of society just because they’re poor or deformed or any number of other reasons to be forgotten about or ill treated.
For Nicholas Shelby, the truth of the country he lives in is brought to his attention by the little boy used for a dissection.
Nicholas seems to be the only person who can see that the little boy was actually murdered and is the only one who cares but when he tries to have something done about it and have the murder looked into, he gets fobbed off by being told that he’s just a sentimental expectant father.
But when more bodies start turning up with the same markings, all seeming to be the most vulnerable people of the city, he starts looking into it himself with the help of tavern owner Bianca Merton.
This book had me drawn in from the first pages. The story flows nicely and keeps you guessing with plenty of detail and character depth.
I enjoyed reading it and will definitely have to look out for more by this author in the future!
For a country that’s riddled with suspicion through religion and plots, and constantly feels threatened by invasion, it easily conveys a sense of those who are ignored and seen as vermin of society just because they’re poor or deformed or any number of other reasons to be forgotten about or ill treated.
For Nicholas Shelby, the truth of the country he lives in is brought to his attention by the little boy used for a dissection.
Nicholas seems to be the only person who can see that the little boy was actually murdered and is the only one who cares but when he tries to have something done about it and have the murder looked into, he gets fobbed off by being told that he’s just a sentimental expectant father.
But when more bodies start turning up with the same markings, all seeming to be the most vulnerable people of the city, he starts looking into it himself with the help of tavern owner Bianca Merton.
This book had me drawn in from the first pages. The story flows nicely and keeps you guessing with plenty of detail and character depth.
I enjoyed reading it and will definitely have to look out for more by this author in the future!
May 9, 2021
An enthralling medical thriller set in Elizabethan England
16th Century England. A serial killer. A disillusioned physician. A beautiful woman suspected of practicing heretical medicine. 3 ingredients guaranteed to bewitch the reader.
When Nicolas Shelby's beloved wife dies in childbirth it sets him on a path of self destruction. Abandoning his career as a physician in exchange for a bottomless jug of ale he finds himself at the very bottom of the heap. When he happens upon the corpse of a child he believes was murdered he sets out to have the incident investigated but the authorities dismiss his fears as the rantings of a drunk.
Taken in by Mistress Merton Nicolas rediscovers a purpose he imagined lost forever and together they set out to solve the mystery of who is responsible for the ever mounting number of bloodless corpses washed up on the banks of London's mighty Thames.
The author leads us on a journey as dark and twisting as the poverty stricken alleys in which the story is set.
Will the perpetrator be unmasked or will the Nicolas become a victim himself....either of the killer or the attitudes of a society who consider the poor and destitute beyond care.
My first read from this author and already I am looking forward to reading more.
16th Century England. A serial killer. A disillusioned physician. A beautiful woman suspected of practicing heretical medicine. 3 ingredients guaranteed to bewitch the reader.
When Nicolas Shelby's beloved wife dies in childbirth it sets him on a path of self destruction. Abandoning his career as a physician in exchange for a bottomless jug of ale he finds himself at the very bottom of the heap. When he happens upon the corpse of a child he believes was murdered he sets out to have the incident investigated but the authorities dismiss his fears as the rantings of a drunk.
Taken in by Mistress Merton Nicolas rediscovers a purpose he imagined lost forever and together they set out to solve the mystery of who is responsible for the ever mounting number of bloodless corpses washed up on the banks of London's mighty Thames.
The author leads us on a journey as dark and twisting as the poverty stricken alleys in which the story is set.
Will the perpetrator be unmasked or will the Nicolas become a victim himself....either of the killer or the attitudes of a society who consider the poor and destitute beyond care.
My first read from this author and already I am looking forward to reading more.
August 6, 2020
This is a great historical murder mystery set in Elizabethan London .
The times are troublesome , Elizabeth I's influence is waning , the country's stability fragile - a young boy's body is found in the City of London with strange marks that no one can explain .
Physician Nicholas Shelby finds another gutted body with the same marks just days later - he is convinced that a killer is at large , targeting the poor .
Nicholas is determined , along with the mysterious apothecary , Bianca , to solve the case - but at what cost to both of them ?
Still recovering from the death of his wife in childbirth , Nicholas tries to get the Authorities to act - to no avail .
But when he is forced to act as a spy he uses the time to further his investigation - placing Bianca and himself in great danger .
This is a brilliant book which shows the fragility of life to both high and low born in an era full of strife , potential war and catholic heretics .
I was given an arc of the book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
The times are troublesome , Elizabeth I's influence is waning , the country's stability fragile - a young boy's body is found in the City of London with strange marks that no one can explain .
Physician Nicholas Shelby finds another gutted body with the same marks just days later - he is convinced that a killer is at large , targeting the poor .
Nicholas is determined , along with the mysterious apothecary , Bianca , to solve the case - but at what cost to both of them ?
Still recovering from the death of his wife in childbirth , Nicholas tries to get the Authorities to act - to no avail .
But when he is forced to act as a spy he uses the time to further his investigation - placing Bianca and himself in great danger .
This is a brilliant book which shows the fragility of life to both high and low born in an era full of strife , potential war and catholic heretics .
I was given an arc of the book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
February 22, 2021
Oh, my goodness. I was kept guessing clear to the end as to who the murderer was, and that's unusual for me. The book was a bit grisly, but the whole Elizabethan age was very well researched. I still have a question left tho'. How did Robt. Lumley's children die, and what exactly did Foulkes do to his wife that estranged them?
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