3 and a half stars for the fifth novels starring Ursula Blanchard and crew. While this novel wasn't anything spectacular, I felt like it finally sets up the coming books for something good. The whole Elizabeth I vs. Mary Queen of Scots drama is building (we all know how that ends) and Ursula is finally (view spoiler)[ rid of the man she's been lusting over for the last five books. Say what you want but I don't think the relationship between Ursula and Matthew was ever anything but a sexual attraction. Ursula has proven in several books now that she's a sexual being and she finds a variety of men attractive. I'm not saying this is a bad thing but I find it distracts from the plot of the story. If I wanted that kind of raw sexual attraction, I would read those kind of books. Don't just throw something like that into a novel because you think it's needed. I promise it's really not. Anyway, rant over. (hide spoiler)]
Pretty good, but not as captivating as some of the other titles in the "Ursula Blanchard" historical mystery series.However, I would recommend it for anyone who enjoys Elizabethean-era stories. Ursula is an interesting character, as are her two faithful "servants," (more pals than employees, really), but this adventure gives them less exposure than some others.Still, it is a fun romp through Tudor times - and unlike some historical series, it is easy enough to follow even if British history isn't your strong point.
What do You think about Queen Of Ambition (2001)?
This book is part of the series featuring Ursula Blanchard as a member of Queen Elizabeth's court who is often asked to work undercover when the Queen's security is in danger. The plot revolves around religious and political scheming as well as giving the reader a view of abusive husbands and what recourse was left to battered wives at this time. The setting is in Cambridge which is to be a stop on the Queen's summer progress. I enjoyed reading about the area and how the townspeople prepared for the Queen's visit. There are many twists and turns before the end of the story. The reader will enjoy this book, one of the best of this series.
—Lalla
