Scales of Retribution

Review The fascination with magicians, conjurers, and mediums in Victorian England brings newlyweds Tom and Helen Ansell to their second case (after The Salisbury Manuscripts). Helen's spinster aunt is about to fall victim to a medium's scam, and Helen's mother asks Helen to go check on the situation in Durham. Concurrently, Tom's law firm wants him to take a disposition from a client, a magician in possession of an exotic item from India; the magician just happens to be in Durham as well. The couple find plenty of intrigue and a bit of danger in this puzzler that shows us how the magic's done but demonstrates that solving a murder goes beyond hidden doors and sleight of hand. VERDICT This second entry in Gooden's historical series is cleverly plotted and nicely structured in five acts. The cathedral plays a minor role, but this reviewer looks forward to seeing where the couple is headed next. -- Library Journal, May 1, 2011 When the fiercely independent kingdoms of western Ireland are threatened by the earl of Kildare, an agent of Henry VIII, King Turlough of the Burren rounds up a group of friends unwilling to accept English rule. Leaving his wife, Brehon Mara, to preside over his kingdom is not normally a risky proposition, given the fact that she is the only female Brehon (judge and investigating magistrate) in Ireland. Mara is, however, currently heavy with child. Experiencing premature labor, she summons Malachy the physician, but he is nowhere to be found. After giving birth to a healthy son, Mara learns that Malachy has been poisoned, and suspects abound. Determined to bring the culprit to justice, Mara expands her investigation, endangering the life of her infant son in the process. Harrison, like Peter Tremayne in his Sister Fidelma series, provides a superior brand of historical mystery that underscores the uniquely independent position of women in medieval and early Renaissance Irela! nd. -- Booklist, May 15, 2011 About the Author