The king's witch - Tracy Borman

'An accomplished novel with a vivid historical setting' The Times

'Tracy Borman's debut historical novel has it all: conspiracy, betrayal, dark intrigues, bloody deeds, a poignant love story - and the most famous plot in English history.' Alison Weir, author of the Six Tudor Queens series

Already a great historian, Tracy Borman proves with this thrilling debut novel that she is also a born storyteller.

As she helps to nurse the dying Queen Elizabeth, Frances Gorges longs for the fields and ancient woods of her parents' Hampshire estate, where she has learned to use the flowers and herbs to become a much-loved healer.

Frances is happy to stay in her beloved countryside when the new King arrives from Scotland, bringing change, fear and suspicion. His court may be shockingly decadent, but James's religion is Puritan, intolerant of all the old ways; he has already put to death many men for treason and women for witchcraft.

So when her ambitious uncle forcibly brings Frances to court, she is trapped in a claustrophobic world of intrigue and betrayal - and a ready target for the twisted scheming of Lord Cecil, the King's first minister.
Surrounded by mortal dangers, Frances finds happiness only with the precocious young Princess Elizabeth, and Tom Wintour, the one courtier she can trust.

Or can she?

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Praise for The King's Witch

'Exquisitely written, sumptuous in detail and thrillingly plotted . . . The first of what promises to be a magnificent trilogy.' Kate Williams, broadcaster and author of Becoming Queen

'Watch out Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir, I can see a new contender for the Queen of Historical Fiction!' Netgalley reviewer

'The adventures of her courageous heroine put flesh on the bones of a fascinating historical framework. First rate fiction!' Sunday Mirror

'A fascinating read, felt very true to time period but with that personal touch . . . Five stars' Jeannie Zelos book reviews

'A compelling tale of corruption, danger and coruscating suspicion, The King's Witch carries the reader right to the heart of James I's court - and casts a dazzling new light onto one of the most dramatic moments in British history' Sarah Gristwood, author of Blood Sisters

'This book just about has it all - history, mystery, sorcery, treachery and romance, no wonder it kept me hooked' Netgalley reviewer