Prince of Darkness

England and France, December 1193. Richard I remains a prisoner, and John’s alliance with Philip II of France threatens the Angevin realm. John unexpectedly seeks help from Justin de Quincy when a death and a concealed political scheme endanger his own position.

Acting for a man he distrusts, Justin moves between John’s followers, Eleanor’s government and those prepared to profit from Richard’s absence. The investigation tests whether service to the queen can require protecting her rebellious son and whether evidence of murder can be separated from the larger contest for the crown.