Absolution: A Question of Conviction

Fourth novella in the Predestination series!Tudor justice hangs in the balance.In the frost-bitten winter of 1549, two investigations converge in the wake of Kett's Norfolk rebellion.John Dee, mathematician and reluctant investigator, must uncover the truth behind a judge's suspicious death before simmering tensions boil over once more.Catherine Brandon, Duchess of Suffolk, needs to rescue her kidnapped son, but she fears Dee's unrestricted investigation imperils her child's life.When corruption reaches into the highest echelons of Church and Crown, these former lovers must navigate dangerous political waters while confronting what still lies between them. In a world where the powerful prey upon the powerless and justice is bought and sold, even love cannot escape the demands of duty.Love can be given, but absolution must be earned.Perfect for readers who love:Tudor historical fiction with romance and intrigueAuthentic period detail from meticulous researchMorally complex characters facing impossible choicesEspionage, political scheming, and high-stakes adventureThe world of Shardlake but with romantic tensionFans of Philippa Gregory, C.J. Sansom, and S.J. Parris will devour this emotionally charged Tudor thriller where passion and duty collide.New to the series? Start anywhere! Each novella works as a standalone while building the larger world of Dr John Dee's adventures.Full series reading order:Novellas: Divination → Speculation → Restitution → AbsolutionPrequel: ResurrectionFull novels: Predestination → Proclamation → Insurrection J. A. Downes was born and raised in England and educated at Imperial College, London University, where he gained a B.Sc. in Physics.He pursued a busy career in Information Technology in England until he moved with his wife to Alberta, Canada, where they had a horse ranch in the foothills of the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains. The IT work continued in parallel for another twenty years or so, until retirement and family responsibilities beckoned back in the UK.He now indulges his passion for history full time with research, writing, and European travel.