Mysteries are explored in this fascinating alternate historical fantasy as Mary Seymour, orphaned daughter of Queen Katherine Parr (last of Henry VIII’s wives) grows up to become a white magician, secretly using various spells and incantations to aid Queen Elizabeth I early in her reign. Court intrigue and the presence of a black magician catapult Mary into a series of adventures that test her abilities and challenge her resolve to never fall in love. This is a beautifully-told story that really takes advantage of the setting and historical context to play with social issues and court politics. All that, and a striking cover make this a book worth checking out. I’ll be looking forward to any sequels that might follow.