Kindle Edition Amazon Category:  Historical Fiction Publisher: Books We Love, Ltd Type: Fiction Pages: 322 Copyright: June 29, 2015 ISBN-13: 9781771454322 After his father’s mysterious death, Jasper’s world is thrown into chaos. Coded messages, letters penned with invisible ink, and chests of gold appear from unknown sources. Dangerous symbols in unexpected places drag Jasper deeper into a conspiracy not of his making. Torn between his newfound love for a Dutchman’s daughter, and his loyalty to the king, Jasper struggles with dark forces. If he ferrets out the plotters that plan to tear England apart, will he lose the one woman he loves? Excerpt Dry eyed, Jasper-Praise-God Pitt stood at his father’s grave and watched the coffin being lowered in the ground. Darkness shrouded the churchyard; fits of cold breezes ruffled his hat brim and slipped down his collar. With a stark shudder, Jasper tightened the cloak about his neck. He searched his soul, tried to find sadness that Holy-Grail-Lament Pitt was dead, but could only drudge up dismay for the future.

Great historical fiction
The author has done a tremendous job of capturing the feel of the era. A bit of suspense to up the tension and believable characters makes it an enjoyable read for lovers of history. I enjoyed it and will certainly read more by Ms. Pym.

I was Swept Away into A Bygone Era of the 1600's
Katherine's research and attention to detail had me, in the space of a few paragraphs, pulled into a world of England in the 1600's. I don't normally read historical novels, but once past the antiquated words and thoughts I was hooked.So much so I had to look for my musket. Jasper's father has died, somewhat suspiciously and as Jasper begins to realize after mysterious documents surface, did he know his dad at all? England is on the edge of war with the Dutchy, as they are called. Jasper to trying to teach religious theories in a time when the world around him cares little for it and more for going to war. Lies, deceit and walking a thin edge of becoming a shop owner all challenge Jasper into wondering is he being tormented into entering hell and not falling for madly in love with a beautiful Dutch woman. Who potentially could become the countries enemy. What is he to do? I won't tell, but suffice to say if you like historical novels, you'll love this one.

Intriguing for all the right reasons - great for fans of 17th century England.
This is not only a well-researched novel conveying a strong sense of time and place with gritty down to earth prose - what seems an insignificant mystery (alongside the deeper darker elements) has bearing on the eventual outcome of this story. That little “something” therefore adds an extra element many authors seek in setting their novels apart from others of similar ilk and of time setting. I highly recommend this novel for lovers of the 17th century who wish to step from the glitz and glamour of the Royal Court, and duly venture to the earthy environs where “Gardy loo” gives due warning of where one will be treading!

It is 1664: precisely 4 years having passed since the Restoration of Charles II to the English throne. Thus, the profligate courtly existence of outlandish and clandestine liaisons of a sexual bent disgusts many, not least men of strict religious beliefs who see Papists at every turn and fear their influence at court. None more so than within the dark narrow winding-streets of the working sector of London, where old Noll (Oliver Cromwell) and all he believed in, and fought for, is far from forgotten. What is more, the tragic death of a merchant-cum-trader seems of little interest to those who are not directly affected by his tragic demise, but his son Jasper soon discovers a covert underbelly of discontent strongly associated with Cromwell’s old Republican regime. All the while the mystery of the father’s death lingers, hauntingly so, and Jasper even begins to doubt his faith as he in turn unmasks political intrigues and shocking discoveries within in his own house. Amidst murder, madness and mayhem, Jasper finds love and dreams of a better future, but can he survive deceits and double deceits whilst covertly pledging allegiance to King and Country?