Publisher's Synopsis
" ...he watched the Master respectfully, his face expressionless despite mention of the Tower sending shivers down his spine. Did they know of his involvement with the de Braose family? That he was permitted to sit, rather than stand, owed much to his unique position as a lay sergeant, rather than a fighting man. Normally only senior knights were afforded such privilege. But Gervase never took advantage of his special status unless invited, as he had been on this occasion. The Master noticed him wriggle uncomfortably on his stool, as might a child of ten caught stealing apples from a peasant's tree in September."
The year is 1213. After returning from two years away from London. Gervase Pitt is surprised - and nervous - to be called to the Tower of London to meet the lord chancellor. After all, he was involved in the death of one of his spies, in France, as well as confidante to a disgraced baron who was living there in exile. If put to the question, he would have to reveal information of interest to King John.
Surprisingly, however, he is invited to undertake a highly secret task at the Tower and embarks on an adventure which will result in the death of a young woman.
The circumstances of her death make it a matter of concern to the deputy constable and it is a race against time to discover who was responsible for the death. Otherwise, if nobody else can be blamed by the time the king returns from Winchester, Gervase will have to pay the ultimate price.
Matters are complicated by the actions of a group of rebel barons calling themselves the Army of God and Holy Church under their leader, Baron Robert Fitzwalter, constable of Baynard's Castle in London's Queenhithe and chief banneret of the City of London).
What readers say about the Pitt Family Saga series:
"The story was entertaining and I was just as eager to solve the mystery and capture the real murderer as were the characters." Roses are Amber on The Goldsmith's Apprentice.
"As always, there is plenty of the everyday details which make the narrative rich with interest." Tom Little on The Goldsmith's Apprentice.
"An interesting book, with well-researched and little-known information on the Templars in England, and mediaeval carpentry and building. Well worth reading." M.E. Jasper on The Templar Pitt.
"Really good read. I could not put it down. Full of information but easy to read. Can not wait to get next one." Nikki Mackenzie on The French Carpenter.
"The author mixes the narrative with details from the era, making this a small history lesson." Roses are Amber on The Flying Mason.
