The Spymaster

The first in the thrilling Marbeck mystery series by John Pilkington! Perfect for fans for S. J. Parris and Andrew Taylor

London, 1600

As a new century dawns, and the war with Spain drags on, Spymaster Sir Robert Cecil calls in Martin Marbeck - his best, if most undisciplined agent - to unmask a double agent who is feeding secrets to the enemy.

Marbeck has been under a cloud since a failed mission in Flanders, and is eager to prove himself once more. But the traitor - codename Mulberry - proves elusive.

Soon Marbeck must leave England for France and venture into the lion’s den, following a tortuous path that winds back to London. With the help of his fellow agent, the unruly Joseph Gifford, a trap is laid to ensnare Mulberry - with deadly and unforeseen results.

Can Marbeck uncover the true identity of the traitor quickly before rumours of the young King Philip III forming a new Armada prove themselves to be true?

*Title previously published as Marbeck and the Double Dealer

Praise for The Spymaster:

‘A superb historical mystery’ - Historical Novel Society

‘A seventeenth century James Bond… a gripping, entertaining page-turner’ - Booklist (starred review)

‘Pilkington introduces an intriguing new hero in the dashing Marbeck’ - Kirkus Reviews

© 2026 Boldwood Books (Ebook): 9781808271687

Release date

Ebook: 6 December 2026