The supernatural and Elizabethan politics mix well in the first book in the Swords of Albion series by award winning author Marc Chadbourn. Will Swyfte, England's most notorious spy, is everything the public wants in a hero-- smart, dangerous and charming. He is also among the few men who know of the true enemy. While most regard the Spanish as the number one threat to national security, Swyfte and his colleagues know the true threat lies in a more supernatural force-- the Unseelie Court. The faerie world exists on the periphery of our world, their menacing touch spoken of in whispers and inference.

The Silver Skull is a weapon of incredible supernatural power that threatens not only England, but the entire world. And now that the Spanish have stolen the skull from the Tower of London, Swyfte is charged with its recovery. Not only does he need to recover the skull, he needs to do so before they can also acquire the key and the shield. Once all three are in the hands of the Spanish, the Unseelie Court will direct the destruction of England, and beyond.

Many potions of The Silver Skull reflect a typical spy adventure novel. Like James Bond, Swyfte has neat gadgets and a suave exterior. He goes on a dangerous mission to save all of England. Beyond that, the cold and cruel Unseelie Court adds a layer of dark fantasy one does not usually associate with spy novels. Swyfte has an interesting back story that weaves into the plot and leaves the story open for further novels.

My Recommendation
The Silver Skull by Marc Chadbourn has plenty of action and interesting characters. The touch of dark fantasy puts a unique twist on the spy adventure story. I recommend The Silver Skull as a can't put down read.

The Silver Skull by Marc Chadbourne
Printed by Pyr
425 pages

The Silver Skull by Marc Chadbourn is available at Amazon.com

Pyr Publishing provided me with a free review copy of The Silver Skull