The Ruffler's Child cover art

The Ruffler's Child

Thomas the Falconer, Book 1

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About this listen

Get ready for the first adventure in the fabulous Thomas the Falconer Tudor mystery series from John Pilkington. A must-read for fans of C. J. Sansom and Andrew Taylor.

‘A truly fine historical series’ - Library Journal

BE YE HUNTER OR PREY?

Introducing Thomas Finbow – falconer to Sir Robert Vicary and Lady Margaret of Petbury, Berkshire. He keeps his mind sharp and his body primed as he goes about his duties with the diligent confidence of one who once served Queen and country.

When Nathaniel Pickering, Lady Margaret’s older brother is found murdered, Thomas takes her away to London, in search of gryfalcons. Lady Margaret being a keen lover of the sport of falconry herself, Thomas hopes it will help distract his mistress from her grief, however once they reach the city it becomes apparent that much bigger things are at play – and the murder of Master Pickering was just the beginning…

Thomas's astute mind is unable to ignore the clues, and in uncovering some dark secrets, he places himself - and his mistress - in grave danger. Now a target himself, Thomas must face some of London's most notorious criminals, in a battle of both brain and brawn.

Perfect for fans of Andrew Taylor and S. J. Parris.

©2025 John Pilkington (P)2025 Boldwood Books Amateur Sleuths Crime Fiction Genre Fiction Historical Historical Fiction Mystery Political World Literature England Crime
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I waited ages to dead this as Audible has been touting a layer on in the series at me for many years now when the earlier books weren’t available. (Don’t do that Audible!!) Anyway, it was ok if improbable. The attitude of the lady of the manor leads me to suspect she’s a time traveler.

Good if not great.

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