I really enjoyed this medieval mystery. It's the first in a new series featuring Templar Knight Bascot de Marins. Bascot is recovering from wounds suffered in several years of Saracen captivity during the Crusades. He is sent to assist at a Templar monastery near Lincoln, England, where he is asked by the castellan to look into the deaths of four people who are found murdered at the local alehouse.

This story had great characters. I relly enjoyed the historical setting as well and will definitely be reading the other books in this series.

Share/Like this Review?

I'd been reading a lot of historical fiction after a long period of only mysteries and thrillers, but had studied the Templars for a class so was fascinated to discover 2 series of mysteries from different authors that combined all these themes/genres. This was the first I've read, but will search out more by her and her compatriot, Michael Jenks. Loved the blending of my faves.

Share/Like this Review?

Excellent Templar Knight mystery featuring Templar Bascot du Marins, who is currently staying under the protection of Nicolaa de da Haye, the castellan of the castle and wife of the sheriff. Victims of murder are found in an alehouse. Who are they? And how did they get there? One of the victims is the husband of the alewife. He has not been killed in the same manner as the others.

Share/Like this Review?

Has several interesting twists and a surprise ending. Good introduction to a new character along the lines of Brother Cadfael.

Share/Like this Review?

This is medieval murder mystery set in Lincoln, England during the summer of the year 1200. A Templar Knight, Bascot de Marins, is questioning his faith while trying to decide tbo return to the Templers or leave it. Assigned to the sheriff of Lincoln, he has returned to England after seven years in prison where he lost an eye and suffered an injured ankle during torture by the Sarceans. With him, he brought an energetic young mute he found on the docks. While Gianni cannot speak his bright personality makes him appreciated by all he meets. Bascot has found himself treating the youngster as he would a son.

Many of the characters are so well developed that the reader almost underestimates Bascot because of his quiet and unassuming manner. That is how Bascot prefers it. He has been asked by Lady Nicolaa to investigate the murders of three individuals found apparently stabbed in an alehouse as a local festival is to begin. With the three is the owner of the establishment with his head bashed in.

Bascot finds tension mounting among the various suspects as he searches for clues to lead him to the killer. There is much distrust of the Jewish community because some are quick to believe that someone of that faith may be involved. As the investigation builds a local priest is killed by a knife thrust to his chest. Is the same killer responsible?

There are few clues for the reader to untangle as Bascot works his way through the various suspects and potential motives. I missed some obvious indications as the story unfolded. Thus the unveiling of the killer was a surprise. That individual showed no remorse about the killings even seeming to brag about the results.

I totally enjoyed this mystery, giving it five stars instead of the usual four I assign to most mystery readings. The author did so well with characterization, the plot and writing style that I intend to look for more of her work. It's a good, good read.

Share/Like this Review?