The story is set in 12th century England; a year has passed since the earlier book.

In a prologue, an assassin agrees to a commission. A chance remark at the end of the meeting is revealing. “Give Master Sicarius the purse, my son,” the client said.

Sir Rowley has been appointed the Bishop of Saint Albans by King Henry II. He is a popular bishop among his people, but Adelia, his one-time lover, the mother of his infant daughter, as well as a physician trained in Sicily who walks a narrow path to avoid being accused a witch, is not as pleased with his position. She knows there’s a deep chasm separating them and has insisted she would not marry him or even meet. Even so, she resents that he’s stuck to their agreement.

There is unrest in England. Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry’s queen, and their sons are in rebellion against their father. Civil War is feared. Eleanor has been banished and imprisoned, but she escaped two weeks ago. Henry is famous for his temper and his passions; one of his mistresses is Rosamund.

Rowley has come to seek Adelia’s help. Rosamund seems to have eaten poisoned mushrooms and is very ill. He believed her to be recovering when he saw her last. Rowley is insistent that Eleanor cannot be behind the poisoning. When Adelia sees the suspect mushrooms, she knows that Rosamund is dead. Adelia must see the body to be sure, but what she finds in Rosamund’s tower will give evidence of a much deeper threat against the political stability of the nation. Even more deaths are yet to come.

The mystery plot in The Serpent’s Tale is well-grounded in English history and the political unrest of the time. The author has attempted to give a brief summary of the historical state of affairs, but readers who are unfamiliar with the period may occasionally be confused. Nevertheless, the story line succeeds because the focus is on Adelia and Rowley rather than the historical personages.

Where <.b>The Serpent’s Tale excels is its vivid characters. They dominate the plot. Adelia and Rowley are the central figures, but secondary characters, both royals and commoners, are as strongly depicted. King Henry in a cameo role is particularly vibrant.

Fans of historical mysteries will definitely want to check out The Serpent’s Tale. I recommend reading the prior novel first in order to get Adelia’s and Rowley’s background, but it’s not necessary to understand and enjoy this sequel. I am looking forward to future books featuring these great characters.

--Lesley Dunlap