Lucy Jago has triumphed with this gripping, action-packed tale of intrigue, dastardly deeds, and family feuds. Set at the end of the 16th century in Montacute House in Somerset at the close of the reign of Elizabeth the 1st, Cecily (Cess), the lowly poultry girl, discovers a precious jewel in a velvet lined box hidden in the chicken coop. A boy is mysteriously found dead in the village, and her best friend William goes missing. In her quest to find answers Cess sets out on a thrilling and often scary journey, which brings her quickly into contact with a covey of strong and benevolent witches to guide and support her. Eventually, the mysteries are solved, a plot to kill the Queen is foiled, and Cess discovers her true identity - and her beau, Jaspar.
This is the first novel written by Lucy Jago for teens and young adults. As with her non-fiction, it immerses the reader fully into life of the period. The language, architecture, daily life and customs of the Elizabethen era have all been thoroughly researched. Lucy Jago's skill is to recreate a highly readable novel in an authenic historical setting that resonates with the concerns and interests of modern readers. And the story would make a great film!