If you enjoy historical fiction and historical mysteries in particular, this one is for you. Any reader of C.J Sansom’s Matthew Shardlake whodunits or even Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall books will find this a delightful read. Rich with period detail about food, attire, manners and law the narrative is livened with intriguing tidbits.

Robert Belstrang, a former magistrate who has run afoul of the legal authorities but still wielding considerable power and respect finds himself entangled in a web of official misconduct, corruption and greed perpetrated by the son of a former colleague. He is taken to what he is told is the sickbed of his old friend who asks him to investigate the shady goings-on surrounding a mining and foundry operation engaged in the casting of cannon for the king’s armies. His inquiries are met with suspicion and violent reaction, both revealing the illegal nature of the operations and the need to keep secrets from officials. All the while his own home is put in jeopardy by the desires of a capricious royal who covets his attractive property as a prize to be awarded to his loyal lackeys. Despite his trepidations about losing his family home he persists in his search for the truth.

As an aging but intrepid investigator, Belstrang is hardly a tough-guy detective but he is dogged and determined and will seek the truth even at the risk of his own life. In this he is cast in the classic mold of a crusader seeking justice, as all good detectives should be. His exploits are vividly limned by Pilkington who writes with authority and skill. A quickly-moving tale with plenty of luxurious detail will provide a pleasurable experience for any reader of mysteries or historical fiction.