Title: The Serpent’s TaleAuthor: Ariana Franklin
Series: Mistress of the Art of Death (book #2)
Previous in series: The Mistress of the Art of Death
Next in series: Grave Goods
My rating: 4 Stars
Synopsis: A forensic scientist in medieval times, Adelia Aguilar finds herself embroiled in another case of murder and politics when King Henry II's mistress is poisoned. Adeila must discover the murderer's identity before she and her loved ones are caught up in the civil war that threatens to break out between Henry and his rebellious wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Review: Gets off to a slow start but increases in pace and tension and packs a huge wallop at the end. Adelia is one of my favorite characters. Her intelligence and fierce independence are awe inspiring and I really enjoy reading about her love/hate relationship with Rowley Picot, now the Bishop of Saint Albans.
The political machinations that constitute the basis for the murder plot may be a little confusing at times, especially for those unfamiliar with English history in that period. Nevertheless, the basic motives of greed and ambition come through quite clearly. I must say that the identity of the assassin caught me by surprise. He turns out to be the one character I never suspected.
All an all, an interesting and entertaining read and I am eagerly looking forward to the next one.
Great review. I think this is an interesting concept. I can't imagine a forensic scientist in medieval times.
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