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The Sorrowful Mysteries of Brother Athelstan #22
Murder Most Treasonable
Spies, secrets and suspicious Friar-sleuth Brother Athelstan races against time to solve impossible crimes and uncover a traitor in this gripping historical mystery set in medieval London.London. March, 1382 . Deep in the shadows, a clandestine organization known as the Secret Chancery operates under the sinister leadership of John of Gaunt's Master of Secrets. When two clerks from this covert group meet their demise in suspicious circumstances, friar-sleuth Brother Athelstan is urgently summoned to unravel the truth behind their deaths.A puzzling question lies at the heart of the how did the killer manage to navigate a labyrinth of locked doors, leaving no trace behind? As Brother Athelstan delves deeper into the mystery, a terrifying threat also the possibility of treason. King Richard's spies in France are also dying, almost as if someone's discovered exactly who they are . . .Brother Athelstan must race against the clock to uncover the truth before he and his companions get tangled up in the hunt for the traitor, with fatal consequences for them all.
224 pages, Paperback
First published November 7, 2023
69 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
Paul Doherty
236 books609 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
He has been published under several pseudonyms: P.C. Doherty, Celia L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas, Vanessa Alexander, Michael Clynes and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name.
Paul Doherty was born in Middlesbrough (North-Eastern England) in 1946. He had the usual education before studying at Durham for three years for the Catholic priesthood but decided not to proceed. He went to Liverpool University where he gained a First Class Honours Degree in History and won a state scholarship to Exeter College, Oxford, whilst there he met his wife Carla Lynn Corbitt. He continued his studies but decided that the academic world was not for him and became a secondary school teacher.
Paul worked in Ascot, Nottingham and Crawley West Sussex before being appointed as Headmaster to Trinity Catholic School in September 1981. Trinity is a large comprehensive [1700 on roll] which teaches the full ability range, ages 11-18. The school has been described as one of the leading comprehensives in the U.K. In April, 2000 H. M. Inspectorate describe it as an 'Outstanding School', and it was given Beacon status as a Centre of Excellence whilst, in the Chief Inspector’s Report to the Secretary of State for January 2001, Trinity Catholic High School was singled out for praise and received a public accolade.
Paul’s other incarnation is as a novelist. He finished his doctorate on the reign of Edward II of England and, in 1987, began to publish a series of outstanding historical mysteries set in the Middle Age, Classical, Greek, Ancient Egypt and elsewhere. These have been published in the United States by St. Martin’s Press of New York, Edhasa in Spain, and Eichborn, Heyne, Knaur and others in Germany. They have also been published in Holland, Belgium, France, Italy, Romania, Estonia, Czechoslovakia, Russia, Bulgaria, Portugal and China, as well as Argentina and Mexico.
He has been published under several pseudonyms (see the bibliography): C. L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name. He recently launched a very successful series based around the life of Alexander the Great, published by Constable & Robinson in the U.K., and Carroll and Graf in the U.S.A., whilst his novels set in Ancient Egypt have won critical acclaim. Paul has also written several non-fiction titles; A Life of Isabella the She-wolf of France, Wife of Edward II of England, as well as study of the possible murder of Tutankhamun, the boy Pharaoh of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, and a study on the true fate of Alexander the Great.
Paul and Carla live on the borders of London and Essex, not far from Epping Forest and six of their children have been through his own school. His wife Carla currently owns two horses and is training, for showing and dressage, a beautiful Arab filly named Polly.
Paul lectures for a number of organisations, particularly on historical mysteries, many of which later feature in his writings. A born speaker and trained lecturer Paul Doherty can hold and entertain audiences.
His one great ambition is to petition the Privy Council of England to open the Purbeck marble tomb of Edward II in Gloucester Cathedral. Paul believes the tomb does not house the body
He has been published under several pseudonyms: P.C. Doherty, Celia L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas, Vanessa Alexander, Michael Clynes and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name.
Paul Doherty was born in Middlesbrough (North-Eastern England) in 1946. He had the usual education before studying at Durham for three years for the Catholic priesthood but decided not to proceed. He went to Liverpool University where he gained a First Class Honours Degree in History and won a state scholarship to Exeter College, Oxford, whilst there he met his wife Carla Lynn Corbitt. He continued his studies but decided that the academic world was not for him and became a secondary school teacher.
Paul worked in Ascot, Nottingham and Crawley West Sussex before being appointed as Headmaster to Trinity Catholic School in September 1981. Trinity is a large comprehensive [1700 on roll] which teaches the full ability range, ages 11-18. The school has been described as one of the leading comprehensives in the U.K. In April, 2000 H. M. Inspectorate describe it as an 'Outstanding School', and it was given Beacon status as a Centre of Excellence whilst, in the Chief Inspector’s Report to the Secretary of State for January 2001, Trinity Catholic High School was singled out for praise and received a public accolade.
Paul’s other incarnation is as a novelist. He finished his doctorate on the reign of Edward II of England and, in 1987, began to publish a series of outstanding historical mysteries set in the Middle Age, Classical, Greek, Ancient Egypt and elsewhere. These have been published in the United States by St. Martin’s Press of New York, Edhasa in Spain, and Eichborn, Heyne, Knaur and others in Germany. They have also been published in Holland, Belgium, France, Italy, Romania, Estonia, Czechoslovakia, Russia, Bulgaria, Portugal and China, as well as Argentina and Mexico.
He has been published under several pseudonyms (see the bibliography): C. L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name. He recently launched a very successful series based around the life of Alexander the Great, published by Constable & Robinson in the U.K., and Carroll and Graf in the U.S.A., whilst his novels set in Ancient Egypt have won critical acclaim. Paul has also written several non-fiction titles; A Life of Isabella the She-wolf of France, Wife of Edward II of England, as well as study of the possible murder of Tutankhamun, the boy Pharaoh of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, and a study on the true fate of Alexander the Great.
Paul and Carla live on the borders of London and Essex, not far from Epping Forest and six of their children have been through his own school. His wife Carla currently owns two horses and is training, for showing and dressage, a beautiful Arab filly named Polly.
Paul lectures for a number of organisations, particularly on historical mysteries, many of which later feature in his writings. A born speaker and trained lecturer Paul Doherty can hold and entertain audiences.
His one great ambition is to petition the Privy Council of England to open the Purbeck marble tomb of Edward II in Gloucester Cathedral. Paul believes the tomb does not house the body
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 9, 2025
This excellent historical mystery is the 22nd volume of the superb "Brother Athelstan" series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find an Historical Note while at the back you'll notice an Author's Note, both filled with very useful historical details and information concerning this story.
Storytelling is brilliant, all characters come vividly to life un tis tale of treason, treachery and murder, while the medieval atmosphere in 1380s London in wonderfully captured by the author.
This story is set in March, in the year of our Lord 1382, with the Secret Chancery at the heart of all evil and death.
Two clerks are killed in quick succession, Norwic and Hyam, and for Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston, Lord High Coroner of London, the task to unravel these mysterious deaths and find the culprit(s), while there's also the case of the stolen red ruby, the Redstone, and in the former case Brother Athelstan will have also the involvement and assistance from his parishioner Benedicta, while in the second case some parishioners of him are in serious trouble themselves.
More and more it will come to the surface that a secret French group of spies, called Les Mysterieux, are involved in this treason with the English Secret Chancery, and so for Brother Athelstan to come to the solution in the end to both these killings in the first place, but the case called the "Redstone" will also get his full attention and definite result.
What is to follow is a tremendous and gripping historical mystery, superbly structured and executed, and one that will reveal various culprit(s) of diverse crimes in a most spectacular fashion.
Highly recommended, for this is another sublime addition to this amazing series, and that's why I like to call this latest episode: "A Thrilling Murderous Treason"!
At the beginning of the book you'll find an Historical Note while at the back you'll notice an Author's Note, both filled with very useful historical details and information concerning this story.
Storytelling is brilliant, all characters come vividly to life un tis tale of treason, treachery and murder, while the medieval atmosphere in 1380s London in wonderfully captured by the author.
This story is set in March, in the year of our Lord 1382, with the Secret Chancery at the heart of all evil and death.
Two clerks are killed in quick succession, Norwic and Hyam, and for Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston, Lord High Coroner of London, the task to unravel these mysterious deaths and find the culprit(s), while there's also the case of the stolen red ruby, the Redstone, and in the former case Brother Athelstan will have also the involvement and assistance from his parishioner Benedicta, while in the second case some parishioners of him are in serious trouble themselves.
More and more it will come to the surface that a secret French group of spies, called Les Mysterieux, are involved in this treason with the English Secret Chancery, and so for Brother Athelstan to come to the solution in the end to both these killings in the first place, but the case called the "Redstone" will also get his full attention and definite result.
What is to follow is a tremendous and gripping historical mystery, superbly structured and executed, and one that will reveal various culprit(s) of diverse crimes in a most spectacular fashion.
Highly recommended, for this is another sublime addition to this amazing series, and that's why I like to call this latest episode: "A Thrilling Murderous Treason"!
October 19, 2023
Treason abounds!
England at the time of King Richard and John of Gaunt. The English have a spy ring spread across Paris. It’s being decimated. Head of the Paris organization, the spy Nightingale, flees to England, to his Master of the secret English chamber. Master Thibault and his Secret Chancery. France has its equivalence, the Chamber Noir.
Somehow secrets are being taken out of from the well guarded repository in London and being sent to France. Treason is at hand.
Brother Athelstan, Dominican Parish Priest of St Erconwald’s in Southwark, and his friend Lord High Coroner of the City of London, are in danger. They are required for an investigation into the death of Hugh Norwic, principal clerk in the Secret Chancery. A price has been put on their heads. They are being attacked on two sides, by agitators asking questions about Radix Malorum, the king of housebreakers, and they’re being hunted down by a secret French cabal, Luciferi.
Efforts have been made on their lives as they search for answers to not one but two locked room mysteries.
Athelstan and his beloved but motley crew of parishioners, as always are part of the story. This tale deals more with treachery between kingdoms, although his parishioners run close to the edges.
Athelstan has important dealings with the barge master Moleskin and his crew as a battle breaks out on the Thames. The river is a treacherous place.
Intrigue, darkness and the ravages of decisions made twenty years ago are some of the factors in this story and we are left wondering. More is to come but what? Is there still an uncovered traitor?
Another solid and illuminating tale from Doherty, exploring the tensions between England and France at this time. Many treacheries haunt the night, treacheries that trickle down even to Athelstan’s small parish.
A Severn Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
England at the time of King Richard and John of Gaunt. The English have a spy ring spread across Paris. It’s being decimated. Head of the Paris organization, the spy Nightingale, flees to England, to his Master of the secret English chamber. Master Thibault and his Secret Chancery. France has its equivalence, the Chamber Noir.
Somehow secrets are being taken out of from the well guarded repository in London and being sent to France. Treason is at hand.
Brother Athelstan, Dominican Parish Priest of St Erconwald’s in Southwark, and his friend Lord High Coroner of the City of London, are in danger. They are required for an investigation into the death of Hugh Norwic, principal clerk in the Secret Chancery. A price has been put on their heads. They are being attacked on two sides, by agitators asking questions about Radix Malorum, the king of housebreakers, and they’re being hunted down by a secret French cabal, Luciferi.
Efforts have been made on their lives as they search for answers to not one but two locked room mysteries.
Athelstan and his beloved but motley crew of parishioners, as always are part of the story. This tale deals more with treachery between kingdoms, although his parishioners run close to the edges.
Athelstan has important dealings with the barge master Moleskin and his crew as a battle breaks out on the Thames. The river is a treacherous place.
Intrigue, darkness and the ravages of decisions made twenty years ago are some of the factors in this story and we are left wondering. More is to come but what? Is there still an uncovered traitor?
Another solid and illuminating tale from Doherty, exploring the tensions between England and France at this time. Many treacheries haunt the night, treacheries that trickle down even to Athelstan’s small parish.
A Severn Press ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
September 16, 2023
I want to open by saying that I've been reading the Brother Athelstan mysteries for years and have enjoyed them a great deal. Doherty's historical mysteries tend to have fewer anachronisms than some of the books in the historical mystery genre, and I appreciate being able to feel as if I'm not reading a 21st Century novel dressed up to look older than it is.
Yes, at times Brother Athelstan seems a bit more willing to overlook crime and potential heresy than I would expect from a friar in the 14th Century, but Doherty manages not to cross that line. Brother Athelstan is a man who sees and understands more than most, but is still a man of his time.
One of the other ways Doherty avoids or counterbalances anachronisms is through the character Lord John Cranston, coroner for London, who seems very much a man of this times, particularly a lawman of his time. The Brother Athelstan novels take place in a London that reflects the violence and sudden (and not always just) justice of the era. Gallows with the remains of the executed stud many of London's neighborhoods and are an expected part of the "scenery." Those caught in the act of a crime are summarily hung. Torture is an accepted part of questioning a suspect.
This particular volume of the Brother Athelstan series struck me as involving more violence than I remember from previous volumes, but I'm not sure whether that's actually the case or just a failing of my memory. What I do know, is that while reading Murder Most Treasonable I found myself asking "what is life like, how is the world perceived and lived in, when sudden violence is part of the machinery of justice, is seen not just as acceptable, but as good?" I don't have any great answers to that questions, but I appreciate Doherty's taking me enough out of my comfort zone to make me ask it.
Murder Most Treasonable isn't one of my favorite Brother Athelstan mysteries. The build up to the crime(s) is slow. The last third of the book establishes the pace I'm more accustomed to in the books, not rushed, but with a sort of surging as answers to questions accumulate and threats become more specific. I wouldn't recommend Murder Most Treasonable as a good first read if one is unfamiliar with the series, but in the context of the series it could work well—readers should just spend time with a few earlier volumes first.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
Yes, at times Brother Athelstan seems a bit more willing to overlook crime and potential heresy than I would expect from a friar in the 14th Century, but Doherty manages not to cross that line. Brother Athelstan is a man who sees and understands more than most, but is still a man of his time.
One of the other ways Doherty avoids or counterbalances anachronisms is through the character Lord John Cranston, coroner for London, who seems very much a man of this times, particularly a lawman of his time. The Brother Athelstan novels take place in a London that reflects the violence and sudden (and not always just) justice of the era. Gallows with the remains of the executed stud many of London's neighborhoods and are an expected part of the "scenery." Those caught in the act of a crime are summarily hung. Torture is an accepted part of questioning a suspect.
This particular volume of the Brother Athelstan series struck me as involving more violence than I remember from previous volumes, but I'm not sure whether that's actually the case or just a failing of my memory. What I do know, is that while reading Murder Most Treasonable I found myself asking "what is life like, how is the world perceived and lived in, when sudden violence is part of the machinery of justice, is seen not just as acceptable, but as good?" I don't have any great answers to that questions, but I appreciate Doherty's taking me enough out of my comfort zone to make me ask it.
Murder Most Treasonable isn't one of my favorite Brother Athelstan mysteries. The build up to the crime(s) is slow. The last third of the book establishes the pace I'm more accustomed to in the books, not rushed, but with a sort of surging as answers to questions accumulate and threats become more specific. I wouldn't recommend Murder Most Treasonable as a good first read if one is unfamiliar with the series, but in the context of the series it could work well—readers should just spend time with a few earlier volumes first.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
June 30, 2025
Pretty obvious who is the respoutnsible party, but still a good story.
December 5, 2023
Murder Most Treasonable is a fast-paced, absorbing medieval murder mystery. The story is carefully crafted, there’s a cast of great characters and the plot is full of twists and turns.
What struck me were the vivid descriptions. Dohery creates a real insight into life in London during the 1380s, from the scenes of everyday life, to the echoing caverns of secret strongholds He builds up a very realistic, and sometimes grim, picture that creates an immersive and believable journey back in time.
Murder Most Treasonable is well-layered and complex, with multiple voices and plots that flow together. There’s plenty of violence, politics and espionage to keep you hooked, and new situations and locations are introduced often, keeping the book feeling fresh. What could have easily been a heavy and complicated read, is instead one that is - whilst no means a ‘light’ read - easy to get stuck into for an hour or two.
There were some times where the prose was a little clumsy and repetitive, sharing details with the reader that had already been explained a few times before. These instances did tend to be nearer the start of the book and as the plot progressed, either wasn’t as noticeable because I was enjoying the story, or the writer found his pace and voice. There were also some events that weren’t overly believable when considering the mystery genre. However, they did help progress the plot and were important to the overall story so were easy to look past.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It’s a medieval murder mystery that is easy to get stuck into.
What struck me were the vivid descriptions. Dohery creates a real insight into life in London during the 1380s, from the scenes of everyday life, to the echoing caverns of secret strongholds He builds up a very realistic, and sometimes grim, picture that creates an immersive and believable journey back in time.
Murder Most Treasonable is well-layered and complex, with multiple voices and plots that flow together. There’s plenty of violence, politics and espionage to keep you hooked, and new situations and locations are introduced often, keeping the book feeling fresh. What could have easily been a heavy and complicated read, is instead one that is - whilst no means a ‘light’ read - easy to get stuck into for an hour or two.
There were some times where the prose was a little clumsy and repetitive, sharing details with the reader that had already been explained a few times before. These instances did tend to be nearer the start of the book and as the plot progressed, either wasn’t as noticeable because I was enjoying the story, or the writer found his pace and voice. There were also some events that weren’t overly believable when considering the mystery genre. However, they did help progress the plot and were important to the overall story so were easy to look past.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It’s a medieval murder mystery that is easy to get stuck into.
November 7, 2023
Many thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for this Advance Reader Copy and the opportunity to review Murder Most Treasonable. All opinions and comments are my own.
The clash of country against country – which necessitates a thriving spy system – is at the heart of Murder Most Treasonable, in which our favorite St. Erconwald parish priest Brother Athelstan finds himself once again at the heart of some very disagreeable secular activities in medieval London. Seems there’s a traitor in or around the Secret Chancery, which houses the King’s special espionage headquarters. A clerk has already met his death, and this won’t be the only one. And while this will consume the attention of the Lord High Coroner Sir John Cranston and his helpful clerk and favorite Dominican, there’s also trouble in the return of an old enemy, who has vowed to get rid of Sir John; if there’s collateral damage, oh, well. Will these two stories intercede? Does the miraculous wineskin make its inevitable appearance? A resounding yes to both questions. Author Paul Doherty is a master at web-spinning; Murder Most Treasonable is no exception.
And if this wasn’t enough, there’s misfortune at St. Erconwald’s involving its “motley crew,” as the author describes its parishioners. Never a dull moment in a Brother Athelstan novel.
All of this takes place amongst the stinks, sights, and sounds of a medieval city that Paul Doherty also relishes in describing to his readers. And ever present is the threat of violence, to one and all, hero, and villain. Fourteenth century England was not a place for the faint of heart.
There are many puzzles here, and not only in the plot. The words themselves are often mysteries, to be deciphered by discriminating readers as well as the inhabitants of the story. Luckily, our little priest puts all the pieces together, as he does so well: “Let me plan, let me plot.” Traps are sprung, final confrontations are arranged. There’s a big finish that seems almost unnecessary. But never fear, the enemies of England are everywhere, and must continue to be found out. And oh yes, the “problems” of the parish are dealt with, too. Indeed, the “beloved parishioners” are one of the main reasons to keep reading the Athelstan and Cranston books – where else can one find such varied, amazingly alive fictional people? Brother Athelstan and our Lord High Coroner will remain ever vigilant themselves, in further adventures.
An Author’s Note reveals the real historical facts and personages incorporated in the story. As Mr. Doherty relates, the historical times incorporated in his Brother Athelstan stories make for remarkable stories. In his competent hands, they come alive.
The clash of country against country – which necessitates a thriving spy system – is at the heart of Murder Most Treasonable, in which our favorite St. Erconwald parish priest Brother Athelstan finds himself once again at the heart of some very disagreeable secular activities in medieval London. Seems there’s a traitor in or around the Secret Chancery, which houses the King’s special espionage headquarters. A clerk has already met his death, and this won’t be the only one. And while this will consume the attention of the Lord High Coroner Sir John Cranston and his helpful clerk and favorite Dominican, there’s also trouble in the return of an old enemy, who has vowed to get rid of Sir John; if there’s collateral damage, oh, well. Will these two stories intercede? Does the miraculous wineskin make its inevitable appearance? A resounding yes to both questions. Author Paul Doherty is a master at web-spinning; Murder Most Treasonable is no exception.
And if this wasn’t enough, there’s misfortune at St. Erconwald’s involving its “motley crew,” as the author describes its parishioners. Never a dull moment in a Brother Athelstan novel.
All of this takes place amongst the stinks, sights, and sounds of a medieval city that Paul Doherty also relishes in describing to his readers. And ever present is the threat of violence, to one and all, hero, and villain. Fourteenth century England was not a place for the faint of heart.
There are many puzzles here, and not only in the plot. The words themselves are often mysteries, to be deciphered by discriminating readers as well as the inhabitants of the story. Luckily, our little priest puts all the pieces together, as he does so well: “Let me plan, let me plot.” Traps are sprung, final confrontations are arranged. There’s a big finish that seems almost unnecessary. But never fear, the enemies of England are everywhere, and must continue to be found out. And oh yes, the “problems” of the parish are dealt with, too. Indeed, the “beloved parishioners” are one of the main reasons to keep reading the Athelstan and Cranston books – where else can one find such varied, amazingly alive fictional people? Brother Athelstan and our Lord High Coroner will remain ever vigilant themselves, in further adventures.
An Author’s Note reveals the real historical facts and personages incorporated in the story. As Mr. Doherty relates, the historical times incorporated in his Brother Athelstan stories make for remarkable stories. In his competent hands, they come alive.
October 29, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Severn House Publishers for an advance copy of Murder Most Treasonable, the twenty-second novel to feature Brother Athelstan, set in London in 1382.
The Secret Chancery, helmed by John of Gaunt’s Master of Secrets, holds all the documentation regarding the machinations of Gaunt, the Regent, and his entourage. When two employees die in questionable circumstancesBrother Athelstan and his employer, Royal Coroner Sir John Cranston are asked to investigate. Adding to the intrigue is the hint of treason as the French have been dismantling England’s spy network, headed by a man code named Nightingale.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder Most Treasonable, which is a further look at life in mediaeval England with another tricky mystery and a likeable protagonist. It is mostly told from Athelstan’s point of view and as he has a more rational and logical eye than most of the characters it makes for a good read.
The main thing I like about this series is the atmosphere the author creates. I feel like you can almost smell the stench and feel the poverty most people live in. Equally, there is no hiding the personal danger in getting close to the upper echelons of power - one wrong word could mean death. It’s a heady brew, and yet it is not all doom and gloom. There are subplots about a missing relic and the return of a notorious thief, who is only too willing to bait Sir John Cranston, that provide absurdity and a little light comic relief.
I feel that the novel is slow to start, but a weighty subject like spying and murder set in a historical era requires a substantial build up. Once it gets going, however, it rattles along with attempts on the lives of Brother Athelstan and Sir John. If there was any doubt about a spy in the Secret Chancery and attempt on the lives of the investigators soon quells it. The big questions are who and how. As befits a repository of state secrets there are locked doors everywhere and only two sets of keys, both accounted for. All employees are searched on the way out. These are intriguing puzzles that, I must confess, Brother Athelstan solved before I did. Still, it was fun trying to work it out.
Murder Most Treasonable is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
The Secret Chancery, helmed by John of Gaunt’s Master of Secrets, holds all the documentation regarding the machinations of Gaunt, the Regent, and his entourage. When two employees die in questionable circumstancesBrother Athelstan and his employer, Royal Coroner Sir John Cranston are asked to investigate. Adding to the intrigue is the hint of treason as the French have been dismantling England’s spy network, headed by a man code named Nightingale.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder Most Treasonable, which is a further look at life in mediaeval England with another tricky mystery and a likeable protagonist. It is mostly told from Athelstan’s point of view and as he has a more rational and logical eye than most of the characters it makes for a good read.
The main thing I like about this series is the atmosphere the author creates. I feel like you can almost smell the stench and feel the poverty most people live in. Equally, there is no hiding the personal danger in getting close to the upper echelons of power - one wrong word could mean death. It’s a heady brew, and yet it is not all doom and gloom. There are subplots about a missing relic and the return of a notorious thief, who is only too willing to bait Sir John Cranston, that provide absurdity and a little light comic relief.
I feel that the novel is slow to start, but a weighty subject like spying and murder set in a historical era requires a substantial build up. Once it gets going, however, it rattles along with attempts on the lives of Brother Athelstan and Sir John. If there was any doubt about a spy in the Secret Chancery and attempt on the lives of the investigators soon quells it. The big questions are who and how. As befits a repository of state secrets there are locked doors everywhere and only two sets of keys, both accounted for. All employees are searched on the way out. These are intriguing puzzles that, I must confess, Brother Athelstan solved before I did. Still, it was fun trying to work it out.
Murder Most Treasonable is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
October 31, 2023
How fitting that "Murder Most Treasonable" will be released on my birthday, because this series is one of my favorites. The setting is England in the late 1300s. Richard II is on the throne and while there isn't open war with France, there is plenty of hostile intrique. Brother Athelstan and Coroner Jack Cranston are tasked by England's spymaster Thibault to uncover who murdered two of the clerks who work in the Secret Chancery and who is the traitor sending France information about English spies in Paris. Unlike most of the books in the series, there is a real threat to Brother Athelstan, who is recognized by France as a very real threat. Paul Doherty does a fantastic job of immersing the reader into this violent time and also creates wonderful characters, especially those who make up Athelstan's parish. The series must be read in order. Murder Most Treasonable will release Nov. 7. Thank you Severn House and NetGalley for the ARC.
September 10, 2024
Firstly I have to say that I have all of the Brother Athelstan books. I have noticed a trend in the later books for the tale to become darker and the parts played by Athelstan's parishioners less prominent. The failure of the, so called, Peasants' Revolt has dampened Southwark's citizens.
I have also got used to how and where to see clues as to what is happening and who is likely to be the guilty party in Paul Doherty's stories. I wasn't sure of all the details of the cases in this book, yes there are more than one, but I was right in my suspicions: am I getting good at this or what?
This story involves leaks in England's intelligence agency - The Secret Chancery, that are causing agents to be taken out by their French opposition. When two Chancery mailed clerks are murdered it seems the leaks and the deaths are somehow linked.
Buy the book and find out more!
I have also got used to how and where to see clues as to what is happening and who is likely to be the guilty party in Paul Doherty's stories. I wasn't sure of all the details of the cases in this book, yes there are more than one, but I was right in my suspicions: am I getting good at this or what?
This story involves leaks in England's intelligence agency - The Secret Chancery, that are causing agents to be taken out by their French opposition. When two Chancery mailed clerks are murdered it seems the leaks and the deaths are somehow linked.
Buy the book and find out more!
October 22, 2023
Paul Doherty has created an absolutely great series in the Sorrowful Mysteries of Brother Athelstan books. Whilst there are numerous books which come before this, you can jump straight in - but for me, the characters are so familiar there's a comfort to them, a cosiness - murder aside!
As with other books in the series, we begin with an apparently unexplainable murder that Athelstan and coroner Sir John Cranston seek to solve. You know you're in safe hands with Doherty when it comes to the immersion within medieval London, the rich array of characters and the complex plot which keeps you guessing at every turn.
I'd highly recommend for those who have enjoyed the Shardlake series or those who just like a good old, historical murder mystery.
As with other books in the series, we begin with an apparently unexplainable murder that Athelstan and coroner Sir John Cranston seek to solve. You know you're in safe hands with Doherty when it comes to the immersion within medieval London, the rich array of characters and the complex plot which keeps you guessing at every turn.
I'd highly recommend for those who have enjoyed the Shardlake series or those who just like a good old, historical murder mystery.
October 19, 2023
Another excellent book featuring Brother Athelstan dealing with multiple problems in life-threatening circumstances. His Coroner friend Cranston stands by him as they work to overcome the problems presented by those who favor the French. The action is believable due to the help Brother Athelstan receives from several sources in his quirky parish family but the bad guys are formidable.
There are vivid descriptions of medieval life as usual. One can almost smell the waste products. This particular book did not have as much action from his usual parishioners with their quirky names.
Net Galley copy
There are vivid descriptions of medieval life as usual. One can almost smell the waste products. This particular book did not have as much action from his usual parishioners with their quirky names.
Net Galley copy
June 15, 2025
As usual, I loved every minute of Brother Athelstan’s latest struggles with the forces of evil. This time, two clerks from the House of Secrets, Thibault’s Secret Service, have been found dead, clearly murdered but how and why, as this classic locked-room mystery is taken to the next level. Athelstan and Sir John Cranston are fighting the French Secret Service as they investigate a leak from the House of Secrets to Paris. How is this information being exfiltrated from a building that has more locks and secure procedures than anywhere else in Westminster? I have to admit that I was waaaay off in figuring out the answers, which just shows you how well Doherty constructed this mystery.
September 10, 2023
This was a really well written historical mystery book. I haven’t read any others in this long-lasting series, but I don’t think that avid readers of the series will be disappointed. I appreciated that despite this being so far into the series, I was able to pick it up and easily get immersed in the story. I haven’t read many books set in medieval times, and this one is medieval London, so that was fun. This book had several fun twists and turns, and it held my interest throughout.
If you are looking for really fun medieval mystery, then check this one out.
If you are looking for really fun medieval mystery, then check this one out.
July 5, 2024
Here again we have brother Athelstan involved in chancery secrets, murder and treason. This time between England and France.
It is a complicated knot that he and Sir John must unpick and both their lives are threatened.
I found this one to be a great follow on from The Hanging Tree as we had already had a peek into the doings of governance and foul play.
Of course Brother Athelstan's parishioners become involved and we see even the lovely Benedicta threatened.
One of my favourite series.
It is a complicated knot that he and Sir John must unpick and both their lives are threatened.
I found this one to be a great follow on from The Hanging Tree as we had already had a peek into the doings of governance and foul play.
Of course Brother Athelstan's parishioners become involved and we see even the lovely Benedicta threatened.
One of my favourite series.
October 25, 2023
This was a very well written historical mystery book. I haven’t read any others in this series so didn't know what to expect. It was a little slow paced for me but very atmospheric where you could almost see and smell the sights and sounds. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 26, 2024
Murder Most Treasonable
Another great read about Brother Athelstan and Coroner Cranston.
Athelstan listens carefully, asks seemingly simple questions, weeds out the contradictions and inconsistencies , assembles the facts, and thinks logically to arrive at the truth. And then he pounces , confronting the wrong doers.
Paul Doherty is one of my favorite authors.
Another great read about Brother Athelstan and Coroner Cranston.
Athelstan listens carefully, asks seemingly simple questions, weeds out the contradictions and inconsistencies , assembles the facts, and thinks logically to arrive at the truth. And then he pounces , confronting the wrong doers.
Paul Doherty is one of my favorite authors.
July 24, 2025
Murder
More mysterious murders for Father Athelstan to solve. His life is threatened several times. He and Benadicta are abducted and escape death due to an intervention. Who is the Radix Malorum? Spies both English and French creep through London. Can Athelstan solve the various plots and survive? It's another great mystery.
More mysterious murders for Father Athelstan to solve. His life is threatened several times. He and Benadicta are abducted and escape death due to an intervention. Who is the Radix Malorum? Spies both English and French creep through London. Can Athelstan solve the various plots and survive? It's another great mystery.
November 7, 2023
Brother Athelstan at his best: another dark, complex and gripping adventure that kept me reading and guessing.
The vivid background, the great MC and the solid mystery are what kept me turning pages.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
The vivid background, the great MC and the solid mystery are what kept me turning pages.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
June 3, 2024
Murder Most Treasonable.
Oh, so very twisty bendy as ever from Mr Doherty. I would expect nothing less. I did have to keep turning back a page to check what I had just read. Oh yes! Very twisty bendy indeed.
And I loved every bit of it.
Oh, so very twisty bendy as ever from Mr Doherty. I would expect nothing less. I did have to keep turning back a page to check what I had just read. Oh yes! Very twisty bendy indeed.
And I loved every bit of it.
June 8, 2024
For the first time in this series, I saw it coming....
This is the first time I found an e-book frustrating, because it makes looking back in the book so hard. Two pieces of advice: make a note of what Boniface says and pay attention to those people no one sees.
This is the first time I found an e-book frustrating, because it makes looking back in the book so hard. Two pieces of advice: make a note of what Boniface says and pay attention to those people no one sees.
June 22, 2024
Yet another great read from Paul Doherty, loved this one. I have re-read all of this series, love them some much. It seems there is Book 23 coming this year also, will keep my eye open for it. I highly recommend this series, brilliant.
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January 13, 2026Brother Athelstan requires slow reading so I can sync with his times then he brings it all together it is a speed read to keep up with him. This has a loose-ish end that I wonder if it is resolved in the next book.
February 8, 2024
Magnificent
I was so delighted to see this book. I love the stories. Mr. Doherty is one of my favorite authors. Win win. Thanks for writing this book!
I was so delighted to see this book. I love the stories. Mr. Doherty is one of my favorite authors. Win win. Thanks for writing this book!
June 7, 2024
An intriguing locked door mystery. Doherty appears to be stuck in a rut regarding locked doors, however. It is a plot device he has used in several of his latest books.
December 25, 2024
An excellent read.
And I guess by the end there will be more to come.
Please keep the Brother Athelstan Mysteries coming!
And I guess by the end there will be more to come.
Please keep the Brother Athelstan Mysteries coming!
May 26, 2024
Follows a well worn, and successful, writing style capturing the past in fascinating detail.
Quite formulaic, and more of a shoehorned ending compared to other Athelstan, but worth a read.
Quite formulaic, and more of a shoehorned ending compared to other Athelstan, but worth a read.
September 29, 2023
1382. The English and French both have their spies. But how are the English spies in France being discovered. Back in London the killing of clerks in the 'House of Secrets' has started. But how are they killed in locked spaces. Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston investigate.
An entertaing and well-written historical mystery with its likeable main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series which can easily be read as a standalone story.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
An entertaing and well-written historical mystery with its likeable main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series which can easily be read as a standalone story.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2024
Excellent as usual
I simply could not put this down! Paul Doherty has written yet another brilliant book. I sometimes wonder how he keeps coming up with all his plots and then I remember that at least half of it based on actual happenings. He's doing excellent work, blending fact with fiction. Long may he continue.
I simply could not put this down! Paul Doherty has written yet another brilliant book. I sometimes wonder how he keeps coming up with all his plots and then I remember that at least half of it based on actual happenings. He's doing excellent work, blending fact with fiction. Long may he continue.
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