Kate Morrison Livres

A Book of Secrets tells the story of a West African girl hunting for her lost brother through an Elizabethan underworld of spies, plots and secret Catholic printing presses. Susan Charlewood is taken from Ghana (then known as Guinea) as a baby. Brought to England, she grows up as maidservant in a wealthy Catholic household. Living under a Protestant Queen in late 16th Century England, the family risk imprisonment or death unless they keep their faith hidden. When her mistress dies, Susan is married off to a London printer who is deeply involved in the Catholic resistance. She finds herself embroiled in political and religious intrigue, all while trying to find her lost brother and discover the truth about her origins

A Book of Secrets is the story of a woman named Susan Charlewood living in Elizabethan England. Born in what is now Ghana, Susan is enslaved by the Portuguese but later rescued by British sailors, who bring her to England. Once in England, she is raised and educated in an English Catholic household.

Focusing on the rich history of Ely, the book explores its archaeological significance, featuring recent excavations and findings such as Neolithic burial chambers and Bronze Age hoards. It highlights the city's connection to notable figures like Oliver Cromwell and events like the Littleport riots, alongside the medieval tales of Hereward the Wake. Vivid illustrations complement the narrative, which spans from ancient origins to 20th-century wartime experiences, showcasing Ely's importance in British archaeology and history.

Exploring the moral complexities in crime and spy fiction from 1880 to 1920, the narrative delves into the blurred lines between right and wrong during a transformative era. As detectives evolved into spies, the story highlights a shift from idealistic morality to a pragmatic approach driven by national interests, questioning the very foundations of justice and ethical decision-making. This examination reveals how societal changes influenced characters and their actions, reflecting a broader commentary on humanity's moral code.