Murder Most Foul
Murder Most Foul by Guy Jenkin, published by Legend Press on February 10, 2026, is a historical fiction novel set in 1593 during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a severe plague outbreak in London, where the playwright William Shakespeare finds himself embroiled in a murder mystery following the death of his rival, Christopher Marlowe. As rumors swirl about Shakespeare’s involvement, he teams up with Marlowe’s sister, Ann, to clear his name and navigate a world filled with treachery and corruption.
Readers will encounter a narrative that blends elements of mystery, romance, and humor, all while exploring the darker aspects of Elizabethan society. The novel presents a unique take on historical events, intertwining Shakespeare’s creative process with the unfolding drama. With a page count of 320, this edition offers a witty and fast-paced reading experience that delves into themes of rivalry and intrigue, making it an engaging addition for fans of Tudor history and noir storytelling.
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‘One of the best historical fiction books of 2025’THE TIMES
‘A delightful cross between Wolf Halland Blackadder‘THE EXPRESS
The debut novel by BAFTA and Emmy award-winning co-writer of BBC One’s OutnumberedGuy Jenkin.
‘Clever, funny, ingenious and endearing’Lissa Evans
‘The most audacious plot ever… gritty, engrossing and great fun’Beth Morrey
‘A great story, fast, dramatic, funny, full of the sounds and smells of Elizabethan London’Andy Hamilton
It’s 1593, Elizabeth I is Queen and everyone is terrified of the worst outbreak of plague in a generation. Shakespeare has only written six plays and is lagging behind his friend Christopher Marlowe, London’s leading playwright.
When Marlowe is stabbed to death in mysterious circumstances, rumours abound – but the one that won’t go away is that Shakespeare did it to remove his greatest rival. Will is determined to clear his name, and teams up with his old flame, Marlowe’s sister Ann, who has plenty of secrets of her own.
In their search to solve the crime, Will and Ann uncover a dark world of treachery, murder, and corruption – which in turn provides Shakespeare with scenes and characters which will appear in his greatest plays. Murder Most Foulis a dark, witty and fast-paced novel, from one of Britain’s best-loved screenwriters.
‘An ingenious, funny and erudite thriller’John O’Farrell
‘Funny, thrilling and full of wonderful easter eggs for Shakespearean theatre fans… a treat from start to finish’David Greig
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