Using the comedic style, this novel is richly peopled with authentic Elizabethan characters in a sensuously detailed setting. The graphic descriptions of the filthy living conditions of the day are so frequent as to be almost overdone. However, readers will have no illusions about the air in old London! The dialogue is a clever blend of Perin's teen-speak (cliches and all) and the typical speech of the actors (given to mild profanity). There are plenty of examples of literary devices for students of English to identify. Humourous scenes abound, including Willow's attempts to conceal her gender while struggling with her affection for Pyke.

      Feeling awkward in her own century, Perin discovers her strengths in the 17th as she slips into the dramatic roles given to her and grows confident in situations that test her imagination, sense of honesty and courage. Scattered through the book are short chapters written from John Pyke's viewpoint. These serve to keep 'the Pykster' in the forefront as he has the crucial task of enacting the changes that Willow sets in motion.

      The plot is suspenseful and rife with conflict. The outcome is not predictable as important details of the authorship puzzle are only clearly explained in the final pages. The novel would work well as a companion to a study of Shakespeare or as an entertaining read-aloud since many aspects of Shakespeare's world may generate questions and discussion. (Compare this book to Susan Cooper's King of Shadows for a more flattering portrayal of the character of Shakespeare.)

Recommended.