The Sinner's Mark

Another glorious story in the Jackdaw series continues to entertain.

It's 1600 - ten years since Nicholas Shelby was saved from himself by Bianca. Since then he has become a husband and father, a spy and a doctor whose methods have brought him into conflict with his profession.

Following the events of "The Rebel's Mark", Shelby has distanced himself from his former spymaster, Robert Cecil and uses his skills to help his neighbours in Bankside. Bianca's apothecary shop is thriving, as is the tavern. Queen Elizabeth I is fading and rumours of her imminent demise are causing ripples both within and without her government. Conspiracies are everywhere and England is on the brink of chaos. When Nicholas' father is accused of distributing seditious material, he is forced to accept help from Cecil. This soon draws him into a treacherous plot against the queen. At the same time the arrival of a old war friend and the disappearance of young boys in the area means Nicholas and Bianca are up to their necks in trouble.

Soon we are drawn into another labyrinthine story of deception, distrust, sedition and conspiracy. Nicholas is still warring with his devotion to his family and his country; Bianca sees things he does not, and this causes tension between them. Ned and Rose also suffer, when he falls under the spell of a Puritan preacher and fans of the series will in turn enjoy and mourn their journey.

The attention to detail we expect from the author is still present and London presents a dark and evil-smelling backdrop to a complex story; a central theme in this book is that of the Puritan's struggle to be accepted and it's hard to not sympathise with their plight. As usual we have a nice mix of well-drawn characters the reader will love, hate and sympathise over in equal measure. A nice afterword from the author places some of the events in context.

I was glad to accept a Netgalley ARC of the book but I'll definitely be first in the queue for a real copy when it's released. Recommended for long-time fans and those of Andrew Taylor and SJ Parris.

The rise of political violence within the radical Puritanism movement at the end of Queen Elizabeth's reign is at the center of this brilliantly plotted historical whodunit full of sparkling dialogues and blessed with a terrific cast of exquisitely drawn characters.

A marvellous new addition to a much loved series, a fictional addiction that keeps getting better and better with each new title!

A highly entertaining romp that deserves to be enjoyed without any moderation whatsoever!

Many thanks to Atlantic Books and Netgalley for this fabulous ARC!

The Sinner’s Mark is the latest book in the Jackdaw series by S W Perry and it is another excellent dose of historical fiction.

Blending both fact and fiction the author has created some great characters and another fantastic multi layered storyline that kept me hooked from beginning to the end. A definite recommendation

These Jackdaw murders just get better and better, the 6 th in the series and a thrilling, much to be recommended story.

I love that they are closely link to history, the reappearance of William Shakespeare added to the air of authenticity. I could just feel myself enjoying his plays at the time with little witticisms and comments reflecting views of men about their womenfolk.

Beautifully written, engaging and an easy read. I do hope there will be another book in the series!

Thank you to Netgalley the author and publishers for an arc in exchange for an honest review

Loved it! I do enjoy historical novels and S.W. Perry is one of the foremost author of this genre's writing today. The story follows Nicholas and Bianca Shelby battling intrigues in the court of a dying Queen Elizabeth in 1600. I highly recommend to historical novel lovers!