Queen Elizabeth sits on the throne but faces many plots to overthrow her.

The Catholics and the Protestants have an uneasy peace but for some the return to Rome is still their aim through the might of Spain and the Catholic League.

William Constable, a physician and astrologer, finds himself summoned by Sir Francis Walsingham. Walsingham enlists Constable to work with the renowned author of the Book of Martyrs, John Foxe. Their aim is to discover the meaning of a star chart discovered in an ornately decorated box.  Working together they uncover a claim that Queen Elizabeth has a  illegitimate child who the conspirators claim will be disclosed to all creating rebellion.

Foxe and Constable work to uncover the identity of the conspirators putting themselves in danger.

Due to his mathematical skills, Constable begins work on creating an instrument to assist with ships navigation for a large fleet preparing on a venture. It isn't long before Constable has suspicions the venture and the plot against Elizabeth are linked.

As the danger increases can Constable figure out the plot before it's too late?


State of Treason is a fantastic historical fiction mystery. The characters are well developed and Walker provides a vibrant insight in to the Elizabethan era.

The storyline draws you in and holds your attention, so much I almost missed my train stop!
Walker uses real individuals such as Foxe and Walsingham with fictional characters including Constable to create a thrilling mystery which I'd highly recommend.

I look forward to reading more adventures of Constable and really hope Foxe is in any further books, I loved him!

I love reading about Queen Elizabeth I and her spy ring. This book grabs a hold of you and doesn't let go.