The Queen's Spy

The Queen's Spy is an historical romance novel set in England during the years prior to, during and after the Spanish Armada. This is a time of great unrest where Protestant and Catholic factions are at odds over the throne of England. Philip of Spain, smouldering at Queen Elizabeth's rebuff of his advances, has determined to conquer England and return the country to its Catholic faith. Spies from both sides are abundant, and this novel deals with an English spy, cousin of Sir Francis Drake. Jeremy Hawkins, crippled as a youth, leaves his sister behind when he takes up his position as a spy for Queen Elizabeth I. Catherine Hawkins, a spunky young lady who is determined to have adventures, remains at the ancestral home, Hawkesbury Manor, where she deals with the behaviour of her cousin Mary who has come to keep her company.