Chalice of Darkness
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5.0 • 1 Rating
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- $18.99
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- $18.99
Publisher Description
Introducing the Fitzglens and their theatre of thieves in this spellbinding gothic mystery!
"Superb . . . Lovers of British historical mysteries with a dash of romance and gothic atmosphere will clamor for more" Publishers Weekly Starred Review
London, 1908. The Fitzglens are proud of their reputation as one of London’s leading theatre families. They are, however, equally proud of another profession which they pursue very discreetly . . . When not on stage, they are thieves.
Jack Fitzglen's latest plan is to seek out the infamous Talisman Chalice, steal it and create a dazzling piece of theatre around it. He travels to Vallow Hall in Northumberland to find the mysterious Maude – the last known link to the Chalice – but uncovers something far darker. Scandal, secrets and danger lurk in every shady corner. Perhaps the legend of the Chalice has come true: that in the wrong hands, the Chalice drags a person into a darkness from which he or she can never emerge . . .
As past and present collide, can Jack find the Chalice, the truth and return to his theatre of thieves unscathed?
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Set in 1908 England, this superb series launch from Rayne (the Phineas Fox mysteries) introduces charming actor Jack Fitzglen, who enlists the help of his extended family of "society burglars" in a "filch." Jack plans to secure the Talisman Chalice, a medieval treasure that was owned by the royal family but vanished in 1893, and make it the surprise centerpiece of a theatrical production. A letter dated 1891 from a mysterious woman, Maude Vallow, to Jack's father provides a strong lead to the chalice's location. Jack sets out for Vallow Hall in Northumberland in search of Maude. Flashbacks to 15 years earlier show Maude, a lonely young bride, married to a dangerously bitter and jealous landowner near the Scottish border. The suspense rises as the narrative shifts between 1908 and 1891, and both Maude and Jack get into serious trouble. Meanwhile, the enticing backstory of the Talisman Chalice unfolds, drawing on several of the darkest chapters in the royal family's history. Lovers of British historical mysteries with a dash of romance and gothic atmosphere will clamor for more.
