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A review by jacquihertz
The Vanishing Children by Graham Brack
4.0
In this cross between historical fiction and mystery, Mercurius, a professor of philosophy at Leiden University, a clergyman of the Reformed (Calvinist) church, and secretly an ordained Catholic priest, is assigned by William of Orange to negotiate the payment of taxes that have been refused by the city of Amsterdam. His role as diplomat is further complicated when the Jewish residents of the city appeal to him for help in finding three young children who have been abducted from their homes.
The mystery is well-developed and the writing is wry with a continual undercurrent of humor. The setting of Amsterdam in the Dutch Golden Age is interesting much as the politics and religious debate and confusion of the seventeenth century are fascinating. I particularly enjoyed this depiction of William of Orange and his wife, Mary.
All in all, I found this to be an engrossing read that I could finish within two days of starting it. I would recommend it to historical fiction and mystery fans, especially for those who would appreciate the chance to visit seventeenth century Holland.
(In the interest of full disclosure, I received a free promotional copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.)
The mystery is well-developed and the writing is wry with a continual undercurrent of humor. The setting of Amsterdam in the Dutch Golden Age is interesting much as the politics and religious debate and confusion of the seventeenth century are fascinating. I particularly enjoyed this depiction of William of Orange and his wife, Mary.
All in all, I found this to be an engrossing read that I could finish within two days of starting it. I would recommend it to historical fiction and mystery fans, especially for those who would appreciate the chance to visit seventeenth century Holland.
(In the interest of full disclosure, I received a free promotional copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.)