Shakespeare's Spy

Shakespeare's Spy is the third (and apparently the last) book in Blackwood's Shakespeare Stealer series. I would like to think that there might be more books in the future, as I have enjoyed this series quite a bit, but the events in this book have a coming-of-age feel to them as we see Widge having to confront the challenges of love and death, not to mention having to find a way to aid an old friend and to find out who's been spying on Master Shakespeare's troupe at the same time. As always, Blackwood does an excellent job of working in details about life in Shakespeare's London and about life in the world of Elizabethan theater. And as he did in Shakespeare's Scribe, Blackwood here goes into even more detail about what goes into the writing of a play as Widge tries his hand at writing a play of his own. Using this, Blackwood also cleverly shows the reader at the same time how it is possible that not all the plays we think of as being Shakespeare's were necessarily his work. One of the things I like about Blackwood's books is that you learn things about the actual historical period in the process of an enjoyable read. The actual history in this case adds to the drama as Widge and his fellow players must deal with the impending death of Queen Elizabeth, under whose reign the theater prospered. They must wait anxiously to see whether her successor, James, will be a patron of the theater or, if the Puritans have their way, will have it banned as a sinful indulgence, putting an end to all theatrical performances and to their way of life. Another thing I particularly liked about Shakespeare's Spy is Blackwood's use of a fortune teller who early on foretells what fate has in store for Widge, his friend Sam and his rival Sal Pavy. And just as Shakespeare often did, Blackwood cleverly shows that just because you've been told your fortune does not mean that you have correctly interpreted it, let alone that you will understand until it finally happens. All in all, this third book is yet another highly enjoyable and educational read. My only regret is that Widge's tale is seemingly done and there won't be any other books to follow. Highly recommended for readers of all ages.

This book was as good as the ones before it. The information laid out in the book was intriguing, especially the parts about the Papists and the queen's failing health. The author cleverly inserts Timon of Athens into the plot of the novel and a reappearance of a character in the first book occurs. I think overall it was well done!

I was drawn in by the first Shakespeare book by Gary - "Shakespeare Stealer" and was pleased to read more about Widge and his continuing adventures in this 3rd book - "Shakespeare's Spy." Gary Blackwood is an extraordinary writer and amazingly brings Widge and the other characters to life in this non stop, what's going to happen next, who did it, tale!! This particular book has many plots: who is stealing from Mr. Shakespeare? Will Widge write his own play? Will Widge get the girl? and more importantly, does he really want the girl?? and what about that fortune teller? Must read to find out!!