Dying of the Fire

The Dying of the Fire is a historical novel set in mid-sixteenth century Canterbury, England, during the reign of Queen Mary. It follows the story of John Hewett, an illiterate carpenter, and Archdeacon Harpsfield, who are both involved in a dangerous mission to uncover the truth and prevent a second rupture with Rome and continental Europe.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2021
Publisher: The Conrad Press

The Dying of the Fire is a captivating and suspenseful novel that transports readers to mid-sixteenth century Canterbury, south-east England, during a time of great turmoil and religious conflict. Set against the backdrop of Queen Mary's impending death and England's impending historic turning point, the story follows the lives of several individuals caught up in the tumultuous events of the time.

In Canterbury, John Hewett, an illiterate carpenter, is entrusted with a dangerous message from a heretical voice claiming to be God. As he struggles to comprehend the significance of his task, he finds himself caught up in the political and religious intrigue of the city. Meanwhile, Archdeacon Harpsfield has arrived in Canterbury, determined to reassert the authority of the church and restore its fortunes. His young secretary, Francis Coppyn, returns to Canterbury with a mission to uncover the long-buried truth and prevent a second rupture with Rome and continental Europe.

As the story unfolds, the characters face numerous challenges and obstacles, including religious persecution, political intrigue, and personal betrayal. The Dying of the Fire explores the themes of faith, doubt, and the consequences of religious extremism. It also highlights the importance of tolerance and understanding in a society divided by religious beliefs.

One of the key characters in the novel is John Hewett, an illiterate carpenter who is entrusted with a dangerous message from a heretical voice claiming to be God. As he struggles to comprehend the significance of his task, he finds himself caught up in the political and religious intrigue of the city. Hewett's journey is one of self-discovery and redemption, as he learns to trust his instincts and confront the forces that threaten his life and the lives of those around him.

Archdeacon Harpsfield, on the other hand, is a powerful figure in the church who is determined to reassert the authority of the church and restore its fortunes. His young secretary, Francis Coppyn, returns to Canterbury with a mission to uncover the long-buried truth and prevent a second rupture with Rome and continental Europe. Coppyn's journey is one of discovery and enlightenment, as he learns to question his beliefs and confront the corruption and hypocrisy of the church.

The Dying of the Fire is a well-written and engaging novel that captures the essence of the mid-sixteenth century. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is fast-paced and suspenseful. The novel also provides a fascinating insight into the religious and political climate of the time, and the consequences of religious extremism.

In conclusion, The Dying of the Fire is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that immerses readers in the mid-sixteenth century Canterbury, south-east England, as its citizens tread a perilous path through the battlefields of faith and sickness. The story explores the themes of faith, doubt, and the consequences of religious extremism, and highlights the importance of tolerance and understanding in a society divided by religious beliefs. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is fast-paced and suspenseful. Whether you are interested in history, religion, or just a good story, The Dying of the Fire is a must-read.

Weight: 418g
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914913358