A stunning tale of occultism and magic across the ages.
Destined to die.
Saved by Fate.
1585. When Edward Kelley and his master, Dr John Dee, discover a dark secret at the heart of the Countess Elizabeth Bathory’s illness, they fear the cure will prove more terrifying than death...
2013. When Jackdaw Hammond learns of a young woman found dead on a train, her body covered in arcane symbols, she must finish what Kelley and Dee started, or die trying...
“[The Secrets of Life and Death] is a fine addition to the urban fantasy genre and marks Alexander as an author to watch”
The Independent on Sunday
“an enjoyable read ... Plenty of tension and some chilling moments kept me going until the very end”
crimereview.co.uk
“reminiscent of the masterly Stephen Lloyd Jones”
thebookbag.co.uk
“Alexander has crafted a gripping page-turner successfully blending history and fiction with magic and sorcery; truly a wonderfully and uniquely inspired novel.”
Historical Novel Society
“Immersive and fascinating…Don't miss this one.”
Mur Lafferty, John W. Campbell Award-winning author of The Shambling Guides
“Offers up the most successful blending of mystery, historical intrigue and occult fantasy since Elizabeth Kostova’s The Historian…Brilliant and multilayered.”
J.D. Horn, author of the Witching Savannah series
“With its intoxicating blend of historical detail, occult magic, and modern drama, Rebecca Alexander’s debut novel is rich with intrigue and suspense.”
Jodi McIsaac, author of the Thin Veil series