Tuesday, August 12, 2008

The Serpent's Tale

Ariana Franklin's second book in her series featuring Dr. Vesuvia Adelia Rachel Ortese Aguilar, The Serpent's Tale returns us to 12th century England for another absorbing mystery. King Henry II's mistress, Rosamund Clifford, has been poisoned and Adelia, a doctor trained in the art of death, is asked to investigate the crime. Many suspect the Queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and Adelia must discover the truth before England becomes embroiled in a civil war. Adelia is once again aided by her guardian Mansur and her lover (and father of her child) Rowley Picot, who is now a bishop. When other murders occur, Adelia finds she is facing more than one killer.

The first novel in this series, Mistress of the Art of Death, was a great read and I found the second installment just as enjoyable. It has all the makings of a great read: a good mystery, a quick pace, great detail, and interesting characters. Hopefully there will be more to come in this great series.

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