Duel of Beasts

What starts as a simple mission quickly turns deadly in the Morrisons’ latest chronicle of the life of excommunicated knight Gerard Fox and his wife, Willa. They want to deliver news to noblewoman Madelena about her brother’s death, but others want to keep her from learning the truth as long as they can. Madelena’s sister-in-law, Helvira, plans to seize power once her husband passes away. She’s having a secret affair with the Vizier Nayar, and a letter Gerard and Willa are planning to deliver reveals Nayar’s treachery with Helvira. If the truth of their affair were discovered, it would get them killed, so the two of them will do anything to stop Willa and Gerard from revealing the truth to Madelena. The Vizier has a collection of wild animals he uses to take out his enemies, and if Gerard and Willa are not careful, they will end up on the menu. Spain in the 1350s comes to glorious life in this non-stop action adventure, and the combination of history, culture, and romance will satisfy any reader who enjoys a great, suspenseful read. Though it’s the fourth in the series, it’s not necessary to have read the previous three to dig this one. But you’ll want to get them after finishing Duel of Beasts. Just stay away from the animal cages.—Jeff Ayers