The Conjuror’s Apprentice: (The Tudor Rose Murders Book 1)
It’s 1555, and Mary Tudor sits on the throne. Dr. John Dee and his secret apprentice, Margaretta, are investigating the murder of a servant boy. Clutched in the servant’s cold hand is a letter that could implicate Princess Elizabeth in a conspiracy. Dr. Dee is looking for a way to restore his family’s wealth and believes solving this crime will help him earn favor at court. He can’t do it without Margaretta, though, who has an uncanny ability to pick up on people’s feelings. Then another body is found, and each victim unveils a different gruesome clue hinting at darker intentions. Dr. Dee will use all the tools at his disposal, including tarot and crystal readings—methods that are dangerous to even speak of. When danger lurks close to their door, Margaretta will put her own safety at risk to keep those she cares for safe.
Williams tangles a complicated web for our main characters to unspool. The plot is packed with gristly twists, political intrigue, and religious persecution. Williams’s strong research shines in this debut novel. The one thing that took me out of the period was when characters were eyerolling; this wasn’t a convention of annoyance until the 1980s. As an apprentice, Margaretta stands beside Dr. Dee as he views the bodies of victims and participates in his occult activities. She is quick on her feet while doing most of the investigating. Meanwhile, Dr. Dee’s views and reliance on divination are explored with spine-tingling portents of what’s to come (both for him and for the plot). The characters add their own suspense as motivations and murky loyalties slowly become clear. A very entertaining and immersive historical murder mystery that explores another side to the legacy of Dr John Dee.
