The Colour of Betrayal
In 1472, Sebastian Foxley and the goldsmith, Lawrence, visit a tavern on Christmas Eve to initiate the holiday celebration. Becoming intoxicated, Lawrence picks a fight with a cleric accompanied by a whore. In the ensuing struggle, the goldsmith seriously injures the cleric. Apprehensive the cleric might die, Lawrence seeks sanctuary in the church of St. Mary-le-Bow. The following night, men of authority enter the vestry and hang the goldsmith, making it appear as if it is a suicide. However, Sebastian discovers a young boy has witnessed the gruesome deed and learns the doomed goldsmith had been denied his right of sanctuary and proper burial.
A quick read, this novella realistically depicts the dialogue and culture of the historical period. The initial chapters are multi-layered with rich description that effectively sets the mood and tension. As the story unfolds, the narrative is primarily dialogue and does not elicit the same degree of tension as the start of the tale. The Colour of Betrayal is recommended for historical fiction readers who enjoy medieval mysteries.
