The Poison Bed

The Poison Bed by Elizabeth Fremantle

The Poison Bed is an intriguing psychological thriller full of history, intrigue, and murder.  It is equal parts historical fiction and true crime.  A Forensic Files for the Jacobean Age.  The book centers around the marriage of Lady Frances Howard and Robert Carr (a favorite of King James I) and the murder of their fellow courtier Thomas Overbury.  Both parties stand accused of the crime and one of them will pay with their life.  But will the true mastermind pay??  Based on fact, this thriller alternates between the point of view of Frances and Robert gradually revealing their true character and motives.  An excellent murder mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.  Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction, biographies, and psychological thrillers. 

Reviewed by Amy Churchill, Head of Zauel Library