This book is a sequel to The Swift and the Harrier, but it stands strong on its own. Set in 17th-century England, the story unfolds decades after the Civil War, as the nation finds itself divided once more. Charles II's illegitimate son, the Protestant Duke of Monmouth, arrives in Dorset with plans to spark a rebellion against his Catholic uncle, King James II.

Monmouth’s forces, poorly armed, face swift defeat against the king’s superior troops. Those captured are charged with high treason, facing the grim fate of being hanged, drawn, and quartered. As Dorset braces for impending violence, the determined Lady Jayne Harrier and her small group of allies—including her brave son Elias and Althea Ettrick, the spirited daughter of a local lawyer—work tirelessly to save the condemned men from execution. In this perilous environment, secrets are kept, and unexpected friendships blossom as they take risks to thwart a ruthless king’s desire for revenge.

The narrative is rich with themes of political intrigue, social upheaval, and personal vendettas. It skillfully intertwines elements of deceit, compassion, and survival, delving into the lives of characters ensnared in a complex web of manipulation and moral dilemmas. The plot follows our protagonists as they navigate the treacherous political landscape under King James II. Walters paints a vivid picture of an era filled with fear and suspicion, immersing readers in its oppressive atmosphere.

The characters are well-developed and multifaceted; some reveal their darker sides while others exhibit remarkable resilience. The protagonist’s journey is particularly compelling as she grapples with difficult choices that test her moral compass.

Walters’ writing style strikes a balance between lyrical prose and accessibility. She combines thorough research with engaging storytelling, employing a third-person limited perspective that shifts among characters. This approach not only heightens tension but also deepens our understanding of each character’s motivations. The dialogue feels authentic to the period yet remains relatable for modern readers.

While some may find the intricate plotting occasionally convoluted—leading to moments where the pace slows—these critiques are often overshadowed by Walters’ talent for creating a vivid sense of place and time. Her ability to draw readers into a world filled with danger and intrigue is commendable.

Minette Walters is an accomplished author known for her skillful blend of mystery and historical fiction. With numerous accolades to her name, she has built a reputation for crafting narratives that challenge our views on morality and justice.

This book comes highly recommended for fans of historical fiction who appreciate rich storytelling and complex characters.

Excellent, well-written novel set against the backdrop of the Monmouth Rebellion and its aftermath. The characterisations of the main protagonists, both fictional and historical, including Judge Jeffreys, are very well written, and the plot is excellent and believable. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys history, literature and a 'jolly good read'.

With thanks to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin

Another brilliant book by Walters. Although as sequel to The Harrier and The Swift, it can be read as a standalone but an even better book would have been missed. The first part of the story fills in the history between the two books. The plot covers Monmouth's rebellion against James II and the transfer of the crown to William and Mary of Orange. Jayne, The Swift and her son Elias try to protect the people of Dorset and stop the king alienating his subjects. My only criticism of a thoroughly enjoyable book is that the main characters, Jayne, Elias and Althea are all a little bit too good to be true.
Can there be another sequel? I hope so.

This is the sequel to The Swift and the Harrier but it can definitely be read as a standalone.

England’s turbulent path to democracy is told via Lady Jayne Harrier and her son Elias, the Duke of Granville with a focus on Judge Jeffreys and the Bloody Assize.

Charles II, the Merry Monarch, is restored to the throne in 1660 after the Protectorate of Oliver Cromwell. Charles rules for 25 years but sadly has no legitimate heir. He does, however, have plenty of illegitimate children, the eldest of whom is James, Duke of Monmouth. On the death of Charles in February 1685, his brother James ascends the throne with discontent swiftly following as James is openly catholic. In The Hague, Holland, a plot is hatched with Protestant Monmouth at its epicentre and he’s most definitely keeping dangerous company. What follows is a precarious game of high treason and an ill fated rebellion with the rebels routed at Sedgemoor in Somerset. What will Monmouth’s fate be? In an age where retribution can be speedy and harsh enter Lady Jayne Harrier and those she can trust. Can she and her loyal followers, save those destined for the gallows in the vengeful Bloody Assize lead by Judge Jeffreys of the Western circuit?

This cruel, harsh and eventful three years of James II’s reign and before the arrival of William and Mary and the Bill of Rights is meticulously portrayed via Jayne, Elias and Jeffreys and I particularly like them more balanced portrayal of the Hanging Judge. I end with some sympathy for him, which I don’t expect to feel but on reflection seems justified! The interactions between him and Lady Jayne Harrier are some of the best in the book as Jayne provides him with some essential medical treatment. She is likeable, knowledgeable, wise and clever and scenes are always lively when she’s around!

Meanwhile Elias works behind the scenes, he too is very likeable, clever and extremely resourceful, he enters a dark and secretive world with bravery and the best form of cunning. Who can he trust as suspicion swirls around him and many others with the danger being palpable. Minette Walters introduces a new character in Althea Ettrick and she is fabulous. She’s direct, extraordinarily well read and highly intelligent with whip smart repartee. Like Jane she is so NOT a woman of her time and I grow to admire her immensely.

This is a tragic tale as it shines a spotlight on Monmouth ragtag followers and their fates. This is an unfair world with treachery, falsehood and lies and a mockery of justice thanks to a monarch hellbent on revenge. It’s beautifully written and meticulously researched and breathes life into this stormy period in our history. There is some moments of lull perhaps because the time period window is a narrow one but it soon picks up pace again. There are some moments of light relief with a dash of romance and some witty enjoyable conversations.

If you don’t know much about this fascinating period of time this novel is very good introduction to it. Highly recommended to fans of historical fiction.

With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Atlantic Books, Allen and Unwin for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.

3.5 ⭐

Before starting this book, I looked back on my review for The Swift & The Harrier, and I'd basically said what a great day it was, when Walters decided to write historical fiction.
I stand by that.
She brings the time, the place and the people to life.
This book entertains and educates (those of us who know nothing)
It's a worthy sequel, and I very much enjoyed following the adventures of our main characters.

The Players by Minette Walters


England, 1685. Decades after the end of the civil war, the country is once again divided when an illegitimate son and pretender to the throne arrives in Dorset to incite rebellion against his uncle, King James II. Angered, the king orders every captured rebel to be hanged, drawn and quartered.

As the country braces for carnage, the formidable Lady Jayne Harrier and her enigmatic son contrive ways to save men from the gallows...

I love anything by the author and inhale her books as soon as they are out . As always a perfect read , totally riveting and could not put it down , the characters , the prose , the whole lot . Perfect.