Based upon real events and real people, the latest by P.F. Chisholm is a wonderful addition to the reading lists of anyone who enjoys historical fiction, political machinations, espionage, and murder mysteries. Using the actual diaries of Sir Robert Carey, Deputy Warden of the Border between Scotland and England, The Clash of Spheres, enters an interesting arena. The King of Spain, even after the massive defeat of his armada, is not done with trying to unseat Elizabeth I of England.

Read the entire review at https://journalingonpaper.com/2017/04/02/book-review-clash-of-spheres-by-p-f-chisholm/

"It's late August, 1592. Sir Robert Carey, cousin to Queen Elizabeth from the wrong side of Henry VIII's blanket, remains at his post on the Borders at Carlisle. He has at last been confirmed by his monarch as Deputy Warden and is still deeply in love with Lady Elizabeth Widdrington while despising her elderly, abusive husband (will the man never die?). Carey remains estranged from his dour but lethal henchman, Henry Dodd."

The story is intriguing but perhaps a bit too intricate, as events are presented in vignettes that go back and forth in time, winter and then the previous summer and back again. The intricacy is my only problem with the book, whose characters I adore and an author I admire.

Henry Dodd did not really want to have Robert Carey killed, but the thread of the book goes there more than once. Janet his wife does want a child to secure Dodd's land but at what expense?

The complicated plot against the Scots King James is because Elizabeth will die soon ( see the book the Duke of York) and bring the Spanish and English under James' control.

Lady Elizabeth is still with her " her elderly, abusive husband" but I know that will end also and she will be with Robert Carey ( Duke of York book). Did Henry Dodd really die at the end? I am not sure but since we are left with that impression a sequel will be in order.

I suggest reader start with Book #1 of the series ( A special series price) and get to this point..Well worth every one!! I give it 4.5 for the hard to follow parts ( a paper book which is NOT an ARC might be easier to go backwards with)