Paul Walker (14)

State of Treason is a satisfying historical mystery with a kindness at its heart that is rare in this genre. The central character, astrologer/physician William Constable, finds himself part of a team led by Francis Walsingham that is racing to end a Catholic plot to destabilize Elizabeth I's England. The central mystery is satisfyingly complex, but what really pleases is Constable himself. He is unfailingly kind to hid invalid mother and, over the course of the novel, offers refuge to other show more characters whose health and/or safety are at risk. He is the opposite of the usual macho hero, yet manages to be a hero nonetheless.

I highly recommend this book for mystery lovers, fans of Tudor-focused fiction, and anyone who can appreciate a portrait of a genuinely kind and gentle man. show less

The William Constable series of Elizabethan mysteries by Paul Walker has definitely won me over. I read a lot of mystery novels set in this time period, and the William Constable ones are unique among them. The reason for this is the central character—William Constable. Elizabethan mysteries are rife with preening popinjays, hot-tempered young men quick to take offense, and nobles aware of their own superiority. What's lacking—particularly in the male characters—are individuals who are show more humble and kind, who know their own worth, but don't feel it places them above others. Enter William Constable. He is a reluctant intelligencer who values his quiet home life and his career as a physician and astrologer, who tends carefully to his ailing mother, and who treats his finance with respect, as well as affection.

The second book in the series, A Necessary Killing, picks up almost immediately after the point when the first ended. A great fleet of ships is preparing for a long voyage that will visit multiple ports, trading goods (including human beings) at a profit and that will finish with attacks on Spanish treasure ships returning from the New World. But the launching of the voyage keeps getting postponed: first by problems with suppliers, refitting of ships, and uncertain financing, later by a murder investigation and acts of possible treason.

The central puzzle is complex enough to keep readers guessing and Constable is excellent company. I highly recommend this title for anyone who appreciates historical fiction and/or mysteries.

I received a free electronic review copy of this book from BooksGoSocial via NetGalley. The opinions are my own. show less

1578. Doctor William Constable, physician and an astrologer, is ordered to a meeting with Sir Francis Walsingha,. Walsingham is the Queen Elizabeth I's spymaster. Here he is told that he will help John Foxe is solving the puzzle of a cabinet containing an astrological chart and coded message. Leading to the Astrological Conspiracy.
An interesting and enjoyable historical Tudor thriller, with its well-drawn characters. A very good start to the series which kept my interest right to the end.
A show more NetGalley Book show less

1579. Doctor William Constable is now in Plymouth awaiting the sail of ships to the New World. Where he will be away for two years. Then his friend, Captain Charles Wicken, who had previously saved his life is accused of the murder of a son of a merchant. William looks for evidence to prove his innocence. But information found is delaying the sailing of the fleet.
A well-paced story which is a highly enjoyable historical mystery and thriller, with a cast of well-drawn characters,
A NetGalley Book