Harriet Steel transitioned from writing four historical novels to crafting crime fiction with the Inspector de Silva mysteries, drawing inspiration from her time in Sri Lanka. Her distinctive prose offers readers an immersive journey into intricate plots and compelling characters. Steel masterfully blends suspense with vivid settings, creating an engaging and memorable reading experience. Her work is characterized by a keen eye for detail and a narrative drive that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.
"Inspector de Silva’s back with a new case to solve when the arrival in the hill town of Nuala of the heir to an English earldom leads to a mysterious death. Throw in a mega-rich Romanian count, his glamorous countess and an enigmatic British army officer and the scene is set for another colorful and entertaining mystery." -- Amazon.com
It is 1586: plagued by religious strife at home and with the Royal Treasury almost exhausted, England holds her breath. When will Philip of Spain launch his Armada? In this world of suspicion and fear, three people - aspiring playwright, Tom Goodluck, his married lover, Meg Stuckton, and Huguenot refugee, Alexandre Lamotte, pursue their own struggles for happiness and salvation.