The Wounded Oak

The Northminster Mysteries #11

by Harriet Smart

When walking in his gardens on a glorious spring morning, the debonair Rector of Swalecliffe, John Ravenell, is shot and almost killed by a hidden rifleman. This extraordinary event calls Major Giles Vernon and Felix Carswell to pursue another dangerous and complicated investigation, this time in the idyllic seaside town of Swalecliffe. Ravenell survives the attack due to Carswell’s skill as a surgeon, but the identity of the rifleman remains elusive, as does the nature of the weapon he used. Astonishing in its range and accuracy, it becomes an urgent matter to find the gun and its owner. Who in sleepy Swalecliffe might harbour such a dangerous weapon and have the desire to use it in earnest? Meanwhile, Lord Rothborough has acquired the nearby Margrave Abbey as a peace offering for his wife, but here in the spectacular grounds, another shocking event throws all thoughts of reconciliation into confusion. For Lady Rothborough is carrying secrets of her own which can only end in tragedy. Giles has been convalescing at Swalecliffe after pneumonia and the case threatens to damage his precarious health, while Felix is attempting to rebuild his life and create a family for his infant he finds himself in the eye of the storm when he rekindles an old friendship high on the windswept moors above Swalecliffe. The Wounded Oak is the eleventh novel in the engrossing Northminster Mysteries, featuring intrepid early Victorian detectives Vernon and Carswell.

Genres: Historical Mystery

405 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 25, 2023

Reviews

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the 12th book I have read over time from the Northminster series. I enjoyed parts of it very much, but overall it was simply too long and tiresome.

Kindle Unlimited

[Marie Shirley Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great reading

I have been reading this series for years. I am an American who has some knowledge of English History, which helps, but by no means is required. The author puts a list of characters at the end, I would recommend it be read first, but again not required.

The mysteries are excellent, as are the few into old English living, not terribly kind women, but it's the same in the States.

It's worth the time and effort. Start with the first book, if possible.

[Beth Duley Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wounded Oak, delightfully brings a return to Major Vernon, Emma, and Felix.

I have read all of the Northminister Mysteries and have enjoyed each one more than the last! The characters have become like friends to me and I look forward to the twists and turns in their lives. I am thrilled to see that there will be a book 12 and hopefully many more! These books are highly recommended!!

[Benjamin A. Peckham,Sr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wounds both fatal and personal

Felix and Giles continue to pursue the evil people and events that occur in their world of life in the 1800's. Giles is recovering from physical issues while Felix tries to recover from his wife's death. Both men are prevented from quick recoveries by all the people and unexpected events around them. Fascinating.

[Michael Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent mystery from Harriet Smart

Love following the families and their stories through life. Always enjoyable, always interesting and complex mysteries which leave you guessing and wanting more at the end.

[deana evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Continuing series of excellent storytelling

Loved it great story and character development
Pleasant to read with familiar and New characters
Would strongly recommend everyone to start with book 1

[Jim Watson-Gove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read!

Complex, riddled with multiple and well developed characters. Villains galore. Polite manipulations by gentle people that provoke great pain in family and friends. Wonderfully complex.

[Kim Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyable

I shall miss spending time with my Northminster friends, and hope for at least a few more adventures with them.

[Michael Wojciehoski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Numen

Hatfields and McCoys. Karma. Banshee. New beginnings and old friends. A little convoluted, lots of twist and turns. Will it be continued?

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

1843 Swalecliffe. Why would anyone what to shoot wealthy John Revenell, rector of Swalecliffe. Thankfully for him Dr Carswell was able to operate. But another man is shot and he dies. Major Vernon investigates.
An entertaining historical mystery

[Carola Mac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

I do enjoy this series. I can’t wait for the next one, there will be a book 12 of the Northminster Series, no? I hope we don’t have to wait long. I really like the characters and the plots are so interesting. I really want to continue reading.