Unique characters, a twisty plot and a bold, bright heroine . . .Mystery and Tudor fans alike will raise a glass to this new series.Karen Harper,New York Times bestsellingauthor

In the year 1543 of King Henry VIIIs turbulent reign, the daughter of a notorious alchemist finds herself suspected of cold-blooded murder . . .

Bianca Goddard employs her knowledge of herbs and medicinal plants to concoct remedies for the disease-riddled poor in Londons squalid Southwark slum. But when her friend Jolyn comes to her complaining of severe stomach pains, Biancas prescription seems to kill her on the spot. Recovering from her shock, Bianca suspects Jolyn may have been poisoned before coming to herbut the local constable is not so easily convinced.

To clear her name and keep her neck free of the gallows, Bianca must apply her knowledge of the healing arts to deduce exactly how her friend was murdered and by whombefore she herself falls victim to a similar fate . . .

ASuspense Magazine Best Historical Mystery of the Year

A realistic evocation of 16th century Londons underside. The various strands of the plot are so skillfully plaited together.Fiona Buckley, author of the Ursula Blanchard Mysteries