"Riveting . . . In Gortner's capable hands, Prescott is a believable and enjoyable hero, a man of strong loyalties but naïve enough to be exploited. And while the Dudleys are mostly broadly drawn villains, Robert has depth, and though readers familiar with the Tudor era will know the key players, they may be surprised by their depiction here. Gortner handles action with aplomb, adding a riveting, fast-paced thriller to the crowded genre of Tudor fiction." --Publishers Weekly

"Even Tudor fans who know all the key players and historical backdrop will be captivated by Gortner's storytelling and his engaging hero. He juxtaposes his naïve and loyal hero with the cruel Robert Dudley, enhancing the plot and grabbing reader interest as much as the quick pace and lush historical references. The novel is both entertaining and thoughtful." --RT Book Review

"An exciting, vividly rendered story of intrigue and espionage." --Booklist

"Dazzling cast of characters . . . at its heart, the brilliant and enigmatic Elizabeth. Never have spy and counterspy been more challenged, villains more duplicitous, and life for those in power--or hoping to be--more dangerous. . . . Fast-moving tale of espionage and suspense . . . The velvet peril of Tudor England comes alive in this haunting look at Elizabeth I's secret spy." --Margaret George, author of The Autobiography of Henry VIII

"A brilliantly executed plot and three-dimensional characters . . . this is historical fiction, and very well done at that; very highly recommended." --Historical Novels Review, editors' choice