'An impressively convincing, well-researched and gripping glimpse into the snake-pit of spies, traitors, and would-be regicides that sprang to life during the dangerous days between the death of Elizabeth I and the formal accession of James VI. Early Stuart London has rarely been more vividly presented 'warts and all'. David Field lays bare the fevered atmosphere that gave rise to so many desperate, and ultimately fatal, plots.' Peter Tonkin
'A gripping thriller... A revealing portrait of both a spy and turbulent era.' Richard Foreman
London, 1603
Oliver Wade is a former soldier, now turned playwright - and a reluctant spy for Robert Cecil.
The Catholic threat did not die with Elizabeth, and Cecil is anxious to prove his worth to the new King, whilst eliminating any suspicion against himself as James insists on his right to rule by divine right rather than through the consent of Parliament and the people.
Oliver is threatened with disgrace and a traitor's death if he does not submit to Cecil's will. Oliver is also anxious to preserve the reputation of the father from whom he is estranged.
The spy's assignment is to unmask those plotting to kidnap the King. Cecil's campaign against Catholic concessions is brutal and it is Oliver who must lead any sympathisers directly to Cecil so they can be eliminated.
But things are not what they appear to be.
In politics and espionage - treachery abounds.
Uneasy Lies The Head is the first book in a thrilling new spy series
Recommended for fans of CJ Sansom, Rory Clements and SJ Parris.
Author David Field is a retired criminal lawyer. His background experience has led to the creation of contemporary crime investigator DCI Mike Saxby, in a series of novels published by Sharpe Books. He is also the author of an Elizabethan crime series including She Died Unshriven, Without Fear or Favour and The Queen's Constables.
Praise for David Field:
'An entertaining and lively mystery, which delves into the murky world of crime and the justice system in provincial Elizabethan England.' Paul Walker, author of State of Treason
'Gritty and unsettling ... A promising start to a new crime series.' Thomas Waugh
'Field continues to deliver the goods... Another gripping story full of depth and character.' Shaun Baines, author of Woodcutter
