Thomas the Falconer Mysteries – serie

Get hold of the second adventure in this gripping Elizabethan mystery series from John Pilkington!🩸🔍'Thomas proves a dogged, creative and insightful sleuth.’ - Publishers WeeklyMURDER MOST SAVAGE…When invited to attend the Barrowhill Pleasures at the seat of the extravagant and pompous Earl of Reigate, Sir Robert Vicary of Petbury brings Thomas, his trusted falconer along with him to enjoy the festivities.But things take a very deadly turn when three of the Earl’s guests are murdered, and the Earl seems eager to cover the deaths up at all costs. With the promise of Queen Elizabeth attending the spectacle, the Earl remains adamant that his dramatic re-enactment of the Spanish Armada should still go ahead - despite the tide of unpleasantness.As the festivities continue, a killer is on the loose, and Thomas must keep a keen eye on the guests. One of them is not what they seem, and he must discern who before the Earl himself becomes the next target.Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom, Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ BooklistPraise for A Ruinous Wind:'Excellent! This is an extremely readable tale, with interesting well realised characters and history so well drawn it is as if you are there' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Book 2 in this excellent series. The author writes very cleverly with humour and the descriptive prose transports the reader to the Elizabethan period.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Great plot, characters, historical fact. Enjoyed every one of these books!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Pilkington has a way of making you think you know what's about to happen only for the story to take a turn in a direction I wasn't expecting.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Simply brilliant!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the third thrilling title in John Pilkington's gripping Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! Perfect for fans for S. J. Parris and Andrew Taylor 🩸☠️‘This tale gives an authentic sense of Elizabethan life’s visceral side with all its lawlessness and brutality’ - Publishers WeeklyA LURE TO MURDERThomas Finbow, falconer to Sir Robert Vicary, is sent to the remote Salisbury Plain by his master to assist on the estate of the impoverished Sir Giles Buckeridge. Thomas is to train a ramage hawk – an immature, half-wild bird – and to teach the arts of falconry to Sir Giles’s young ward, Gervase.It soon becomes clear, however, that Sir Giles has much bigger problems than falconry as he is struggling to secure respectable futures – and provide sufficient dowries - for his three spirited daughters.Within days of Thomas's arrival, Sir Giles's eldest daughter Jane vanishes - assumed to have run away from her unhappy betrothal to a wealthy older man, Stephen Ridley. But the search for a missing girl soon turns into a hunt for a murderer, and as the body count rises, Thomas has no choice but to do what he does best – hunt his prey…Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom and Andrew TaylorPraise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - BooklistPraise for The Ramage Hawk:‘Hard to put this down.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Thomas Falconer tales get better and better… Book 3, the best so far!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A wonderful blend of action murder and mystery.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Excellent story telling. I'm now completely hooked on this series.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Excellent! Heroics battles bravery and treachery this story has it all. Falconers unite! Loved it.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A great historical thriller like Parris and Sansom.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the first adventure in the fabulous Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series from John Pilkington. A must-read for fans of C. J. Sansom and Andrew Taylor. 🩸📜‘A truly fine historical series’ - Library JournalBE YE HUNTER OR PREY?Introducing Thomas Finbow – falconer to Sir Robert Vicary and Lady Margaret of Petbury, Berkshire. He keeps his mind sharp and his body primed as he goes about his duties with the diligent confidence of one who once served Queen and country.When Nathaniel Pickering, Lady Margaret’s older brother is found murdered, Thomas takes her away to London, in search of gryfalcons. Lady Margaret being a keen lover of the sport of falconry herself, Thomas hopes it will help distract his mistress from her grief, however once they reach the city it becomes apparent that much bigger things are at play – and the murder of Master Pickering was just the beginning…Thomas's astute mind is unable to ignore the clues, and in uncovering some dark secrets, he places himself - and his mistress - in grave danger. Now a target himself, Thomas must face some of London's most notorious criminals, in a battle of both brain and brawn.Perfect for fans of Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library JournalPraise for The Ruffler's Child:'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the first adventure in the fabulous Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series from John Pilkington. A must-read for fans of C. J. Sansom and Andrew Taylor. 🩸📜‘A truly fine historical series’ - Library JournalBE YE HUNTER OR PREY?Introducing Thomas Finbow – falconer to Sir Robert Vicary and Lady Margaret of Petbury, Berkshire. He keeps his mind sharp and his body primed as he goes about his duties with the diligent confidence of one who once served Queen and country.When Nathaniel Pickering, Lady Margaret’s older brother is found murdered, Thomas takes her away to London, in search of gryfalcons. Lady Margaret being a keen lover of the sport of falconry herself, Thomas hopes it will help distract his mistress from her grief, however once they reach the city it becomes apparent that much bigger things are at play – and the murder of Master Pickering was just the beginning…Thomas's astute mind is unable to ignore the clues, and in uncovering some dark secrets, he places himself - and his mistress - in grave danger. Now a target himself, Thomas must face some of London's most notorious criminals, in a battle of both brain and brawn.Perfect for fans of Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library JournalPraise for The Ruffler's Child:'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the first adventure in the fabulous Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series from John Pilkington. A must-read for fans of C. J. Sansom and Andrew Taylor. 🩸📜‘A truly fine historical series’ - Library JournalBE YE HUNTER OR PREY?Introducing Thomas Finbow – falconer to Sir Robert Vicary and Lady Margaret of Petbury, Berkshire. He keeps his mind sharp and his body primed as he goes about his duties with the diligent confidence of one who once served Queen and country.When Nathaniel Pickering, Lady Margaret’s older brother is found murdered, Thomas takes her away to London, in search of gryfalcons. Lady Margaret being a keen lover of the sport of falconry herself, Thomas hopes it will help distract his mistress from her grief, however once they reach the city it becomes apparent that much bigger things are at play – and the murder of Master Pickering was just the beginning…Thomas's astute mind is unable to ignore the clues, and in uncovering some dark secrets, he places himself - and his mistress - in grave danger. Now a target himself, Thomas must face some of London's most notorious criminals, in a battle of both brain and brawn.Perfect for fans of Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library JournalPraise for The Ruffler's Child:'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get hold of the second adventure in this gripping Elizabethan mystery series from John Pilkington!🩸🔍'Thomas proves a dogged, creative and insightful sleuth.’ - Publishers WeeklyMURDER MOST SAVAGE…When invited to attend the Barrowhill Pleasures at the seat of the extravagant and pompous Earl of Reigate, Sir Robert Vicary of Petbury brings Thomas, his trusted falconer along with him to enjoy the festivities.But things take a very deadly turn when three of the Earl’s guests are murdered, and the Earl seems eager to cover the deaths up at all costs. With the promise of Queen Elizabeth attending the spectacle, the Earl remains adamant that his dramatic re-enactment of the Spanish Armada should still go ahead - despite the tide of unpleasantness.As the festivities continue, a killer is on the loose, and Thomas must keep a keen eye on the guests. One of them is not what they seem, and he must discern who before the Earl himself becomes the next target.Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom, Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ BooklistPraise for A Ruinous Wind:'Excellent! This is an extremely readable tale, with interesting well realised characters and history so well drawn it is as if you are there' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Book 2 in this excellent series. The author writes very cleverly with humour and the descriptive prose transports the reader to the Elizabethan period.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Great plot, characters, historical fact. Enjoyed every one of these books!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Pilkington has a way of making you think you know what's about to happen only for the story to take a turn in a direction I wasn't expecting.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Simply brilliant!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get hold of the second adventure in this gripping Elizabethan mystery series from John Pilkington!🩸🔍'Thomas proves a dogged, creative and insightful sleuth.’ - Publishers WeeklyMURDER MOST SAVAGE…When invited to attend the Barrowhill Pleasures at the seat of the extravagant and pompous Earl of Reigate, Sir Robert Vicary of Petbury brings Thomas, his trusted falconer along with him to enjoy the festivities.But things take a very deadly turn when three of the Earl’s guests are murdered, and the Earl seems eager to cover the deaths up at all costs. With the promise of Queen Elizabeth attending the spectacle, the Earl remains adamant that his dramatic re-enactment of the Spanish Armada should still go ahead - despite the tide of unpleasantness.As the festivities continue, a killer is on the loose, and Thomas must keep a keen eye on the guests. One of them is not what they seem, and he must discern who before the Earl himself becomes the next target.Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom, Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ BooklistPraise for A Ruinous Wind:'Excellent! This is an extremely readable tale, with interesting well realised characters and history so well drawn it is as if you are there' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Book 2 in this excellent series. The author writes very cleverly with humour and the descriptive prose transports the reader to the Elizabethan period.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Great plot, characters, historical fact. Enjoyed every one of these books!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Pilkington has a way of making you think you know what's about to happen only for the story to take a turn in a direction I wasn't expecting.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Simply brilliant!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the third thrilling title in John Pilkington's gripping Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! Perfect for fans for S. J. Parris and Andrew Taylor 🩸☠️‘This tale gives an authentic sense of Elizabethan life’s visceral side with all its lawlessness and brutality’ - Publishers WeeklyA LURE TO MURDERThomas Finbow, falconer to Sir Robert Vicary, is sent to the remote Salisbury Plain by his master to assist on the estate of the impoverished Sir Giles Buckeridge. Thomas is to train a ramage hawk – an immature, half-wild bird – and to teach the arts of falconry to Sir Giles’s young ward, Gervase.It soon becomes clear, however, that Sir Giles has much bigger problems than falconry as he is struggling to secure respectable futures – and provide sufficient dowries - for his three spirited daughters.Within days of Thomas's arrival, Sir Giles's eldest daughter Jane vanishes - assumed to have run away from her unhappy betrothal to a wealthy older man, Stephen Ridley. But the search for a missing girl soon turns into a hunt for a murderer, and as the body count rises, Thomas has no choice but to do what he does best – hunt his prey…Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom and Andrew TaylorPraise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - BooklistPraise for The Ramage Hawk:‘Hard to put this down.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Thomas Falconer tales get better and better… Book 3, the best so far!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A wonderful blend of action murder and mystery.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Excellent story telling. I'm now completely hooked on this series.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Excellent! Heroics battles bravery and treachery this story has it all. Falconers unite! Loved it.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A great historical thriller like Parris and Sansom.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the third thrilling title in John Pilkington's gripping Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! Perfect for fans for S. J. Parris and Andrew Taylor 🩸☠️‘This tale gives an authentic sense of Elizabethan life’s visceral side with all its lawlessness and brutality’ - Publishers WeeklyA LURE TO MURDERThomas Finbow, falconer to Sir Robert Vicary, is sent to the remote Salisbury Plain by his master to assist on the estate of the impoverished Sir Giles Buckeridge. Thomas is to train a ramage hawk – an immature, half-wild bird – and to teach the arts of falconry to Sir Giles’s young ward, Gervase.It soon becomes clear, however, that Sir Giles has much bigger problems than falconry as he is struggling to secure respectable futures – and provide sufficient dowries - for his three spirited daughters.Within days of Thomas's arrival, Sir Giles's eldest daughter Jane vanishes - assumed to have run away from her unhappy betrothal to a wealthy older man, Stephen Ridley. But the search for a missing girl soon turns into a hunt for a murderer, and as the body count rises, Thomas has no choice but to do what he does best – hunt his prey…Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom and Andrew TaylorPraise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - BooklistPraise for The Ramage Hawk:‘Hard to put this down.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Thomas Falconer tales get better and better… Book 3, the best so far!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A wonderful blend of action murder and mystery.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Excellent story telling. I'm now completely hooked on this series.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Excellent! Heroics battles bravery and treachery this story has it all. Falconers unite! Loved it.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A great historical thriller like Parris and Sansom.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Pick up the next thrilling instalment in this gripping Elizabethan mystery series from John Pilkington. Fans of Andrew Taylor and C. J. Sansom will not want to miss this! 🩸☠️'Pilkington’s latest takes this long-running and popular series to a new level' - BooklistA HAWK SOARS TO KILL...Thomas Finbow is sent to help with a tragic fire at one of his master's tenant farms, but is soon embroiled in something far more sinister. The body of Simon Haylock is dragged from the blazing barn - and it appears he was dead before the fire even started...All is not well on the Berkshire Downs, as a number of fearful murders are discovered, baffling the authorities and striking fear into villagers' hearts. Suspicion falls on strangers in the area, like the dour mapmaker Christopher Mead and the flamboyant travelling showman Paulo Schweiz.But Thomas sees what others cannot, and with the help of Paulo's astonishing magic lantern show he starts to unravel the web of secrets and desire for revenge that have led to the murders - with astounding consequences.Prepare to be gripped by this thrilling murder mystery! 🩸🔍*Previously published as The Mapmaker's DaughterPraise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - Booklist'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Pick up the next thrilling instalment in this gripping Elizabethan mystery series from John Pilkington. Fans of Andrew Taylor and C. J. Sansom will not want to miss this! 🩸☠️'Pilkington’s latest takes this long-running and popular series to a new level' - BooklistA HAWK SOARS TO KILL...Thomas Finbow is sent to help with a tragic fire at one of his master's tenant farms, but is soon embroiled in something far more sinister. The body of Simon Haylock is dragged from the blazing barn - and it appears he was dead before the fire even started...All is not well on the Berkshire Downs, as a number of fearful murders are discovered, baffling the authorities and striking fear into villagers' hearts. Suspicion falls on strangers in the area, like the dour mapmaker Christopher Mead and the flamboyant travelling showman Paulo Schweiz.But Thomas sees what others cannot, and with the help of Paulo's astonishing magic lantern show he starts to unravel the web of secrets and desire for revenge that have led to the murders - with astounding consequences.Prepare to be gripped by this thrilling murder mystery! 🩸🔍*Previously published as The Mapmaker's DaughterPraise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - Booklist'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Pick up the next thrilling instalment in this gripping Elizabethan mystery series from John Pilkington. Fans of Andrew Taylor and C. J. Sansom will not want to miss this! 🩸☠️'Pilkington’s latest takes this long-running and popular series to a new level' - BooklistA HAWK SOARS TO KILL...Thomas Finbow is sent to help with a tragic fire at one of his master's tenant farms, but is soon embroiled in something far more sinister. The body of Simon Haylock is dragged from the blazing barn - and it appears he was dead before the fire even started...All is not well on the Berkshire Downs, as a number of fearful murders are discovered, baffling the authorities and striking fear into villagers' hearts. Suspicion falls on strangers in the area, like the dour mapmaker Christopher Mead and the flamboyant travelling showman Paulo Schweiz.But Thomas sees what others cannot, and with the help of Paulo's astonishing magic lantern show he starts to unravel the web of secrets and desire for revenge that have led to the murders - with astounding consequences.Prepare to be gripped by this thrilling murder mystery! 🩸🔍*Previously published as The Mapmaker's DaughterPraise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - Booklist'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Pick up the next adventure in John Pilkington's incredibly intriguing Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! Perfect for fans of S. J. Parris and Andrew Taylor. 🩸🔍'English history fans who don’t know the Thomas the Falconer series should get up to speed quickly.' BooklistAN INSTINCT TO KILL!In the isolated village of Lambourn there is great excitement when a family of itinerant bell-founders arrives to forge a new church bell. But excitement soon turns to terror when churchwarden Will Stubbs - a saintly old man - is found dead in the woods.Thomas the Falconer is charged by his master to find answers, but instead finds himself trying to restore order in the community when the village constable is also found dead. Suspicion falls on many, and Thomas must battle ancient fears and hostilities in the hunt for a murderer.As panic ensues, Thomas does what he does best - following the trail and hunting his prey. But will it take the raising of the great bell itself to allow the pieces to fall into place at last - and reveal the killer?Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - Booklist'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Pick up the next adventure in John Pilkington's incredibly intriguing Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! Perfect for fans of S. J. Parris and Andrew Taylor. 🩸🔍'English history fans who don’t know the Thomas the Falconer series should get up to speed quickly.' BooklistAN INSTINCT TO KILL!In the isolated village of Lambourn there is great excitement when a family of itinerant bell-founders arrives to forge a new church bell. But excitement soon turns to terror when churchwarden Will Stubbs - a saintly old man - is found dead in the woods.Thomas the Falconer is charged by his master to find answers, but instead finds himself trying to restore order in the community when the village constable is also found dead. Suspicion falls on many, and Thomas must battle ancient fears and hostilities in the hunt for a murderer.As panic ensues, Thomas does what he does best - following the trail and hunting his prey. But will it take the raising of the great bell itself to allow the pieces to fall into place at last - and reveal the killer?Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - Booklist'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Pick up the next adventure in John Pilkington's incredibly intriguing Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! Perfect for fans of S. J. Parris and Andrew Taylor. 🩸🔍'English history fans who don’t know the Thomas the Falconer series should get up to speed quickly.' BooklistAN INSTINCT TO KILL!In the isolated village of Lambourn there is great excitement when a family of itinerant bell-founders arrives to forge a new church bell. But excitement soon turns to terror when churchwarden Will Stubbs - a saintly old man - is found dead in the woods.Thomas the Falconer is charged by his master to find answers, but instead finds himself trying to restore order in the community when the village constable is also found dead. Suspicion falls on many, and Thomas must battle ancient fears and hostilities in the hunt for a murderer.As panic ensues, Thomas does what he does best - following the trail and hunting his prey. But will it take the raising of the great bell itself to allow the pieces to fall into place at last - and reveal the killer?Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - Booklist'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Discover the next GRIPPING title in John Pilkington's superbly thrilling Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! 🩸🔍📜‘A truly fine historical series, Pilkington makes Elizabethan London come vividly alive. Recommended.’ Library JournalAN EYE FOR DANGERThomas Finbow is sent to London by Lady Margaret on a sensitive mission: to seek out her husband Sir Robert – Thomas’s master – and persuade him to give up his foolish infatuation with Lady Imogen, a notorious woman of the Court.But once in the city, Thomas is thrown into a far graver situation when the body of a young woman, horribly mutilated, is washed up beside the Thames. Soon, Thomas is caught up in a bizarre series of events including the theft of a corpse – and even his own imprisonment.With the help of an old friend, the streetwise jingler Ben Mallam, Thomas must risk everything to foil a deadly scheme that threatens the very succession to the English throne – leading to the biggest gamble of his life.Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom, Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Discover the next GRIPPING title in John Pilkington's superbly thrilling Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! 🩸🔍📜‘A truly fine historical series, Pilkington makes Elizabethan London come vividly alive. Recommended.’ Library JournalAN EYE FOR DANGERThomas Finbow is sent to London by Lady Margaret on a sensitive mission: to seek out her husband Sir Robert – Thomas’s master – and persuade him to give up his foolish infatuation with Lady Imogen, a notorious woman of the Court.But once in the city, Thomas is thrown into a far graver situation when the body of a young woman, horribly mutilated, is washed up beside the Thames. Soon, Thomas is caught up in a bizarre series of events including the theft of a corpse – and even his own imprisonment.With the help of an old friend, the streetwise jingler Ben Mallam, Thomas must risk everything to foil a deadly scheme that threatens the very succession to the English throne – leading to the biggest gamble of his life.Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom, Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Discover the next GRIPPING title in John Pilkington's superbly thrilling Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! 🩸🔍📜‘A truly fine historical series, Pilkington makes Elizabethan London come vividly alive. Recommended.’ Library JournalAN EYE FOR DANGERThomas Finbow is sent to London by Lady Margaret on a sensitive mission: to seek out her husband Sir Robert – Thomas’s master – and persuade him to give up his foolish infatuation with Lady Imogen, a notorious woman of the Court.But once in the city, Thomas is thrown into a far graver situation when the body of a young woman, horribly mutilated, is washed up beside the Thames. Soon, Thomas is caught up in a bizarre series of events including the theft of a corpse – and even his own imprisonment.With the help of an old friend, the streetwise jingler Ben Mallam, Thomas must risk everything to foil a deadly scheme that threatens the very succession to the English throne – leading to the biggest gamble of his life.Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom, Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the final THRILLING instalment in John Pilkington's Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series!‘English history fans who don’t know the Thomas the Falconer series should get up to speed quickly.’ BooklistTHE FINAL DEADLY HUNTWhen Thomas’s master Sir Robert is charged by the Queen’s Council to host an important guest – Grigory Stanic, ambassador of distant Muscovy – Thomas is tasked with entertaining His Excellency’s party, who are all keen hawking men.Soon after their arrival he is ordered to guard a priceless gift for Boris Godunov, the most important man at the Tsar’s court: a magnificent gold chain with jewelled pendant. But dismay ensues when the priceless chain is promptly stolen – with potentially disastrous diplomatic consequences.So the desperate hunt for the Muscovy chain begins - and a body is discovered, the victim having been brutally tortured. Moreover, a mysterious figure is seen on the Downs, sowing fear in the community. Is he the thief - or worse, the murderer?As matters hurtle towards a deadly conclusion, Thomas must use his sharp mind and all his skills to uncover dark secrets lurking among Stanic’s divided followers. But is he truly ready to confront the most terrible adversary he has ever faced?Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the final THRILLING instalment in John Pilkington's Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series!‘English history fans who don’t know the Thomas the Falconer series should get up to speed quickly.’ BooklistTHE FINAL DEADLY HUNTWhen Thomas’s master Sir Robert is charged by the Queen’s Council to host an important guest – Grigory Stanic, ambassador of distant Muscovy – Thomas is tasked with entertaining His Excellency’s party, who are all keen hawking men.Soon after their arrival he is ordered to guard a priceless gift for Boris Godunov, the most important man at the Tsar’s court: a magnificent gold chain with jewelled pendant. But dismay ensues when the priceless chain is promptly stolen – with potentially disastrous diplomatic consequences.So the desperate hunt for the Muscovy chain begins - and a body is discovered, the victim having been brutally tortured. Moreover, a mysterious figure is seen on the Downs, sowing fear in the community. Is he the thief - or worse, the murderer?As matters hurtle towards a deadly conclusion, Thomas must use his sharp mind and all his skills to uncover dark secrets lurking among Stanic’s divided followers. But is he truly ready to confront the most terrible adversary he has ever faced?Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the final THRILLING instalment in John Pilkington's Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series!‘English history fans who don’t know the Thomas the Falconer series should get up to speed quickly.’ BooklistTHE FINAL DEADLY HUNTWhen Thomas’s master Sir Robert is charged by the Queen’s Council to host an important guest – Grigory Stanic, ambassador of distant Muscovy – Thomas is tasked with entertaining His Excellency’s party, who are all keen hawking men.Soon after their arrival he is ordered to guard a priceless gift for Boris Godunov, the most important man at the Tsar’s court: a magnificent gold chain with jewelled pendant. But dismay ensues when the priceless chain is promptly stolen – with potentially disastrous diplomatic consequences.So the desperate hunt for the Muscovy chain begins - and a body is discovered, the victim having been brutally tortured. Moreover, a mysterious figure is seen on the Downs, sowing fear in the community. Is he the thief - or worse, the murderer?As matters hurtle towards a deadly conclusion, Thomas must use his sharp mind and all his skills to uncover dark secrets lurking among Stanic’s divided followers. But is he truly ready to confront the most terrible adversary he has ever faced?Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get hold of the second adventure in this gripping Elizabethan mystery series from John Pilkington!🩸🔍'Thomas proves a dogged, creative and insightful sleuth.’ - Publishers WeeklyMURDER MOST SAVAGE…When invited to attend the Barrowhill Pleasures at the seat of the extravagant and pompous Earl of Reigate, Sir Robert Vicary of Petbury brings Thomas, his trusted falconer along with him to enjoy the festivities.But things take a very deadly turn when three of the Earl’s guests are murdered, and the Earl seems eager to cover the deaths up at all costs. With the promise of Queen Elizabeth attending the spectacle, the Earl remains adamant that his dramatic re-enactment of the Spanish Armada should still go ahead - despite the tide of unpleasantness.As the festivities continue, a killer is on the loose, and Thomas must keep a keen eye on the guests. One of them is not what they seem, and he must discern who before the Earl himself becomes the next target.Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom, Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ BooklistPraise for A Ruinous Wind:'Excellent! This is an extremely readable tale, with interesting well realised characters and history so well drawn it is as if you are there' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Book 2 in this excellent series. The author writes very cleverly with humour and the descriptive prose transports the reader to the Elizabethan period.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Great plot, characters, historical fact. Enjoyed every one of these books!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Pilkington has a way of making you think you know what's about to happen only for the story to take a turn in a direction I wasn't expecting.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review'Simply brilliant!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the first adventure in the fabulous Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series from John Pilkington. A must-read for fans of C. J. Sansom and Andrew Taylor. 🩸📜‘A truly fine historical series’ - Library JournalBE YE HUNTER OR PREY?Introducing Thomas Finbow – falconer to Sir Robert Vicary and Lady Margaret of Petbury, Berkshire. He keeps his mind sharp and his body primed as he goes about his duties with the diligent confidence of one who once served Queen and country.When Nathaniel Pickering, Lady Margaret’s older brother is found murdered, Thomas takes her away to London, in search of gryfalcons. Lady Margaret being a keen lover of the sport of falconry herself, Thomas hopes it will help distract his mistress from her grief, however once they reach the city it becomes apparent that much bigger things are at play – and the murder of Master Pickering was just the beginning…Thomas's astute mind is unable to ignore the clues, and in uncovering some dark secrets, he places himself - and his mistress - in grave danger. Now a target himself, Thomas must face some of London's most notorious criminals, in a battle of both brain and brawn.Perfect for fans of Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library JournalPraise for The Ruffler's Child:'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the third thrilling title in John Pilkington's gripping Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! Perfect for fans for S. J. Parris and Andrew Taylor 🩸☠️‘This tale gives an authentic sense of Elizabethan life’s visceral side with all its lawlessness and brutality’ - Publishers WeeklyA LURE TO MURDERThomas Finbow, falconer to Sir Robert Vicary, is sent to the remote Salisbury Plain by his master to assist on the estate of the impoverished Sir Giles Buckeridge. Thomas is to train a ramage hawk – an immature, half-wild bird – and to teach the arts of falconry to Sir Giles’s young ward, Gervase.It soon becomes clear, however, that Sir Giles has much bigger problems than falconry as he is struggling to secure respectable futures – and provide sufficient dowries - for his three spirited daughters.Within days of Thomas's arrival, Sir Giles's eldest daughter Jane vanishes - assumed to have run away from her unhappy betrothal to a wealthy older man, Stephen Ridley. But the search for a missing girl soon turns into a hunt for a murderer, and as the body count rises, Thomas has no choice but to do what he does best – hunt his prey…Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom and Andrew TaylorPraise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - BooklistPraise for The Ramage Hawk:‘Hard to put this down.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Thomas Falconer tales get better and better… Book 3, the best so far!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A wonderful blend of action murder and mystery.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Excellent story telling. I'm now completely hooked on this series.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘Excellent! Heroics battles bravery and treachery this story has it all. Falconers unite! Loved it.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review‘A great historical thriller like Parris and Sansom.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Pick up the next adventure in John Pilkington's incredibly intriguing Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series! Perfect for fans of S. J. Parris and Andrew Taylor. 🩸🔍'English history fans who don’t know the Thomas the Falconer series should get up to speed quickly.' BooklistAN INSTINCT TO KILL!In the isolated village of Lambourn there is great excitement when a family of itinerant bell-founders arrives to forge a new church bell. But excitement soon turns to terror when churchwarden Will Stubbs - a saintly old man - is found dead in the woods.Thomas the Falconer is charged by his master to find answers, but instead finds himself trying to restore order in the community when the village constable is also found dead. Suspicion falls on many, and Thomas must battle ancient fears and hostilities in the hunt for a murderer.As panic ensues, Thomas does what he does best - following the trail and hunting his prey. But will it take the raising of the great bell itself to allow the pieces to fall into place at last - and reveal the killer?Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - Booklist'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Pick up the next thrilling instalment in this gripping Elizabethan mystery series from John Pilkington. Fans of Andrew Taylor and C. J. Sansom will not want to miss this! 🩸☠️'Pilkington’s latest takes this long-running and popular series to a new level' - BooklistA HAWK SOARS TO KILL...Thomas Finbow is sent to help with a tragic fire at one of his master's tenant farms, but is soon embroiled in something far more sinister. The body of Simon Haylock is dragged from the blazing barn - and it appears he was dead before the fire even started...All is not well on the Berkshire Downs, as a number of fearful murders are discovered, baffling the authorities and striking fear into villagers' hearts. Suspicion falls on strangers in the area, like the dour mapmaker Christopher Mead and the flamboyant travelling showman Paulo Schweiz.But Thomas sees what others cannot, and with the help of Paulo's astonishing magic lantern show he starts to unravel the web of secrets and desire for revenge that have led to the murders - with astounding consequences.Prepare to be gripped by this thrilling murder mystery! 🩸🔍*Previously published as The Mapmaker's DaughterPraise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ - Library Journal‘This latest entry in Pilkington’s Thomas the Falconer series is a vigorous adventure featuring a likeable hero, an intriguing plot and a fine sense of period ambience.’ - Booklist'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

Get ready for the final THRILLING instalment in John Pilkington's Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series!‘English history fans who don’t know the Thomas the Falconer series should get up to speed quickly.’ BooklistTHE FINAL DEADLY HUNTWhen Thomas’s master Sir Robert is charged by the Queen’s Council to host an important guest – Grigory Stanic, ambassador of distant Muscovy – Thomas is tasked with entertaining His Excellency’s party, who are all keen hawking men.Soon after their arrival he is ordered to guard a priceless gift for Boris Godunov, the most important man at the Tsar’s court: a magnificent gold chain with jewelled pendant. But dismay ensues when the priceless chain is promptly stolen – with potentially disastrous diplomatic consequences.So the desperate hunt for the Muscovy chain begins - and a body is discovered, the victim having been brutally tortured. Moreover, a mysterious figure is seen on the Downs, sowing fear in the community. Is he the thief - or worse, the murderer?As matters hurtle towards a deadly conclusion, Thomas must use his sharp mind and all his skills to uncover dark secrets lurking among Stanic’s divided followers. But is he truly ready to confront the most terrible adversary he has ever faced?Praise for the Thomas the Falconer series:‘Larger-than-life characters and authentic 16th-century ambience… Pilkington successfully draws readers into his world and keeps them turning the pages.’ - Booklist'The story moves at a great pace ... it made a welcome change to discover Elizabethan England through the eyes of a lesser mortal.' - The Historical Novels Review‘A sturdy and entertaining historical for fans of Elizabethan mysteries’ Library Journal'The quality of the writing and evocation of the Elizabethan Age is right up there with C J Sansom - and that could be no higher recommendation. I devoured it with relish and a buzz of contentment! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewBrilliant! A master of descriptive prose! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewInteresting tale of intrigue, murder and mystery. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewI was gripped from start to finish. A very well crafted read which was unputdownable. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader ReviewWell-drawn characters in a colourful and dangerous world, drawn into a plot that will keep you guessing (and keep the pages flying by). Thoroughly recommended. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review