The year is 1585 and Queen Elizabeth has set out rules to smooth the troubles between Catholics and Protestants. But ignoring her guidelines could still prove dangerous.

Twelve-year-old Thomas, living deep in the forest with his family of charcoal burners is ignorant to the political tensions. A gifted artist, all he wants to do is draw all day. His chance comes when the local landowner, discovering his talent, takes him into his house intending to sponsor him as an apprentice to his friend.

Before his apprentice begins Thomas travels to the Big House to learn social manners and is warned about the religious tensions. But when Sir John’s sons start a fight and throw him in an underground hole, he discovers a man already in residence. Whispering for secrecy, the man shows him how to escape. Grateful for this, he says nothing when he sees the Whisperer secretly travelling with them to London, where Thomas will begin his seven-year apprenticeship.

In London, Thomas discovers that danger still lurks, and is drawn into a world of religious and political upheaval. Faced with the choice between loyalty and safety, Thomas must embark on a journey that will test his courage and resilience.