Ken Follett: Column of Fire (The Kingsbridge Novels, Book 3)

Description

There are many who would see her removed, not least Mary Queens of Scots, who lies in wait in Paris.
Elizabeth determines to set up a new secret service: a group of resourceful spies and courageous agents entrusted to keep her safe and in power. As shesearches for those who will make the difference, one man stands out.
For Ned Willard the opportunity to serve his queen is God-sent. He cannot stay in Kingsbridge and watch the love of his life marry another, and as fires burn and extremism begins to spark throughout Europe, Ned makes his choice. He will spend his life protecting his monarch from the tyrants who aim to destroy her or die trying . . .