"Justin is so beguiling and the action is so lively and unpredictable that readers will cheer Justin’s return in further adventures."
--Publishers Weekly

""Masterfully told . . . Penman’s authentic period details, larger-than-life characters, and fast-paced plot add up to great reading for both mystery fans and history buffs."
--Booklist

"[Penman] crafts quite a cunning mystery for Justin to cut his teeth on. Yes, this is just the first in what promises to be a rousing series."
--Nancy Pate, Orlando Sentinel