Penman first earned her literary reputation with big, intricate novels about British historical figures. Her The Sunne in Splendour (1982) is a sympathetic novel about Richard III of England. Other novels followed, centered on British historical figures such as Henry III and King John's daughter Joanna. All of these books were praised by critics for their historical accuracy and level of detail, while still telling a good, absorbing tale of human events and passions.

In this, her first venture into the mystery genre, the historical backdrop of Justin's assignment is used sparingly. Aside from a few early passages on Eleanor's unique life and position, historical details mostly appear in dialogue. The King's disappearance, and John's intentions, are speculated on in high quarters and low. Other events of the time, like the ambiguous end of the Third Crusade itself, are not mentioned. This may reflect a historical reality...