With over 1 million copies sold, Andrew Taylor is the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Ashes of London. This is the best of gripping, exquisitely researched historical crime fiction, perfect for fans of CJ Sansom, Robert Harris and Hilary Mantel.

England, 1688. A deadly conspiracy. A crown under threat.

King James II finally has an heir, but not all are rejoicing. Protestant bishops rebel. Rumours fly about the child’s legitimacy. And strange symbols are appearing on the streets of London.

Amidst the turmoil, Whitehall Secretary James Marwood has been living a quiet life. But when a figure from the past emerges with a dangerous proposition, Marwood has no choice other than to investigate a supposed suicide.

Soon Marwood's entire family is embroiled in a fast-evolving conspiracy, each with a different role to play. This is a deadly and treasonous plot, threatening not only the peace James Marwood has so carefully built for himself, but also the crown.

‘A grand piece of work – a triumph and one of Taylor’s best’ MICK HERRON

'A wonderful, subtle novel, set in a strange, enclosed world. Beautiful writing and a gloriously satisfying ending' ANN CLEEVES

'A Schooling in Murder turns the country house mystery inside out with wit and wisdom. Ten out of ten' THE TIMES

'Taylor's position at the apex of historical crime writers is reinforced' FINANCIAL TIMES

'Taylor’s ability to conjure time past is second to none' GUARDIAN