UNEASY LIES THE HEAD

London, 1603

Oliver Wade is a former soldier, now turned playwright – and a reluctant spy for Robert Cecil.

The Catholic threat did not die with Elizabeth, and Cecil is anxious to prove his worth to the new King, whilst eliminating any suspicion against himself as James insists on his right to rule by divine right rather than through the consent of Parliament and the people.

Oliver is threatened with disgrace and a traitor’s death if he does not submit to Cecil’s will. Oliver is also anxious to preserve the reputation of the father from whom he is estranged.

The spy’s assignment is to unmask those plotting to kidnap the King. It is Oliver who must lead any sympathisers directly to Cecil so they can be eliminated.

But things are not what they appear to be.

In politics and espionage – treachery abounds.

THE GAME’S AFOOT

1603.

King James I is on the throne of England and Catholics are being hung for treason. A plot emerges to replace James with a Catholic.

Master Secretary Robert Cecil is anxious to maintain his trusted position under the King and resolves to uncover the conspiracy and conspirators.

William Wade, a trusted soldier, is compelled to assist Cecil, with the promise of securing the Lieutenantship of the Tower of London. Meanwhile his son Oliver, actor and reluctant spy, is instructed to investigate the murder of playwright Christopher Marlowe.

Oliver and William soon discover their investigations are linked. They join forces to reveal the identities of those who are seeking to usurp the throne, walking a tightrope between traitors on one side and the politic Cecil on the other.

A PLAGUE ON BOTH YOUR HOUSES

1605.

London.

Queen Elizabeth is dead.

James I, the son of Mary Queen of Scots, is the new King.

Mary’s Catholic followers, aggrieved at the King’s oppression of their right to practice their faith in peace, are planning a devastating act of terror and revolution. They intend to blow up the House of Lords during the State opening of Parliament by James himself – and subsequently install a Catholic Monarch.

Oliver Wade is ordered to spy on the plotters and deliver a list of names to Robert Cecil, James’ head of Government.

Led by the charismatic Robert Catesby, the terrorists set into motion an audacious – and murderous – plan.
Guido ‘Guy’ Fawkes is the explosives expert charged with lighting the flame of rebellion.

On the evening before the fateful day, the plot begins to unravel. No one can be trusted, or be guaranteed to survive.

Oliver must save his king, but at what cost?