A Parliament of Spies

Clark expertly blends murder and Machiavellian politics in her stellar fourth 14th-century historical featuring Abbess Hildegarde (after 2011’s The Law of Angels). York archbishop Alexander Neville taps Hildegarde to accompany him on a trip to London, where she’s to serve as his spy. England is in turmoil under the tumultuous rule of Richard II, while the threat of a French invasion adds to the unrest and uncertainty. Before they set out, Neville’s saucier is found dead in a wine vat, evidently murdered, but Hildegarde has little time to use her deductive skills to ascertain the truth. The journey, plagued by further violence, leads to an enthralling climax that will determine the viability of Richard’s reign. Clark makes the most of the inherent drama of the times, without losing readers unfamiliar with the power players at work behind the scenes. Fans of strong female sleuths like Peter Tremayne’s Sister Fidelma will feel right at home. (Jan.)