Swanson, L: HER PERILOUS GAME

Eager to expand upon her success as a 14th century Hanseatic merchant, Christina Kohl embarks on a dangerous journey in the pursuit of great profits. But will she be just as ready to risk her life for duty, honor, and the lives of those she holds most dear?In 14th century Europe, a respectable woman was expected to marry at a young age, often to a man she did not love, with the remainder of her days to be spent managing a household and enduring a yearly visit to the birthing chair. For eighteen-year old Christina Kohl, that life could not be further from the one she now leads. She has become a master merchant, fending for herself in an evolving world of trade and social upheaval where things are not always as they seem, least of all Christina herself. Although she has been accepted by the German merchant community in London as one of their own, it is only by being disguised as her dead brother, Frederick. With a shipload of English wool, she sets off on an audacious winter crossing of the stormy English Channel to the Flemish city of Bruges. She faces more dangers than the weather, however. She has incurred the wrath of the leader of the German trade guild in London, even more so that of his scheming daughter. Just as worrisome to her is the deteriorating political situation in England, where the power of the king, Edward II, is sorely challenged by an alliance of his most powerful barons, who also seek to destroy her friend, the King’s favorite, Piers Gaveston. With few allies upon whom she can rely, Christina must defend what she has attained with a quick wit, strong sword arm, and a valiant heart. But will these be enough to defeat the enemies who circle about her like hungry wolves? Her Perilous Game is the exciting sequel to No Man’s Chattel and the second volume in the series, No Man is Her Master.