Book excerpt: As dark forces challenge Edward II's throne, will the King prevail? The Darkening Glass is the third novel in Paul Doherty's brilliant series featuring physician and lady-in-waiting to Queen Isabella, Mathilde of Westminster. Perfect for fans of Robin Hobb and Michael Jecks. March 1312 and England is divided. Edward II is in conflict with his barons over royal favourite Gaveston, and Queen Isabella is momentously pregnant with the first union of Plantagenet and Capetian blood. Meanwhile, rebel Robert Bruce prowls the Scottish border seeking advancement. Mathilde of Westminster senses a challenge for the throne is imminent. When the great Earls step up their campaign, the King and Queen are forced to flee to a fortified priory in Tynemouth, now vulnerable to the Scottish marauders on land and Bruce's allies at sea. With threats all around, the royal party can only despair when one of their camp is murdered. Will Mathilde be able to find the perpetrator before the King loses control of the throne? What readers are saying about The Darkening Glass: 'The plot was effective and...the mood was atmospheric' 'Wonderfully brought to life' 'I saw the wrong side of midnight many times, as I was unable to put the book down! The many twists and turns of the plot, and the strength of the characters made this a memorable book'