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The Sorrowful Mysteries of Brother Athelstan #14
The Book of Fires
February, 1381. A ruthless killer is known as the Ignifer - Fire Bringer - is rampaging through London, bringing agonizing death and destruction in his wake. He appears to be targeting all those involved in the recent trial and conviction of the beautiful Lady Isolda Beaumont, burned at the stake for the murder of her husband. As the late Sir Walter Beaumont was a close friend of the Regent, John of Gaunt orders Sir John Cranston and Brother Athelstan to investigate.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published September 30, 2014
146 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
Paul Doherty
263 books611 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 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 29, 2018
This the 14th volume of the Brother Athelstan series is another exciting episode of this same fascinating series.
As ever the storytelling is of the highest quality and the mystery itself is absolutely top-notch, and together they make this book again a real page-turner.
What the author has managed again so wonderfully is to bring to life these medieval times, as well as the whole atmosphere and feel of the times concerning the people who are scraping along and trying to make a living in London.
The book is set again in February in the year AD 1381, just like it's predecessor Candle Flame, and this tale is about "The Book of Fires".
The story itself is about a killer known as the Ignifer -Fire Bringer- who's rampaging through London bringing death in his wake.
His targets are all those who are responsible for the trial and subsequent death at the stake of Lady Isolde Beaumont, who was burned for the murder of her husband, Sir Walter Beaumont.
Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston are ordered by the Regent, John of Gaunt, to investigate this murder simply because Sir Walter Beaumont was a close friend of the Regent and not to forget that when Sir Walter died he was in the possession of a copy of this mysterious "Book of Fires" which has now disappeared, and what will follow is a most challenging and adventurous investigation before they discover the culprit.
Another great murder mystery, very suspenseful, and those ingredients together make this book "A Hot Read"!
As ever the storytelling is of the highest quality and the mystery itself is absolutely top-notch, and together they make this book again a real page-turner.
What the author has managed again so wonderfully is to bring to life these medieval times, as well as the whole atmosphere and feel of the times concerning the people who are scraping along and trying to make a living in London.
The book is set again in February in the year AD 1381, just like it's predecessor Candle Flame, and this tale is about "The Book of Fires".
The story itself is about a killer known as the Ignifer -Fire Bringer- who's rampaging through London bringing death in his wake.
His targets are all those who are responsible for the trial and subsequent death at the stake of Lady Isolde Beaumont, who was burned for the murder of her husband, Sir Walter Beaumont.
Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston are ordered by the Regent, John of Gaunt, to investigate this murder simply because Sir Walter Beaumont was a close friend of the Regent and not to forget that when Sir Walter died he was in the possession of a copy of this mysterious "Book of Fires" which has now disappeared, and what will follow is a most challenging and adventurous investigation before they discover the culprit.
Another great murder mystery, very suspenseful, and those ingredients together make this book "A Hot Read"!
April 27, 2024
This one was a masterpiece of twist and turns and some very evil deeds.
I did not predict the eventual outcome at all. But again old sins cast long shadows.
Highly recommended and just a little different from the others in the series.
I did not predict the eventual outcome at all. But again old sins cast long shadows.
Highly recommended and just a little different from the others in the series.
December 18, 2014
The latest in the Brother Athelstan/Sir Jack Cranston set in London during the regency of John of Gaunt.
Was expecting this one to involve the Peasant's Revolt but noooo, Paul is dragging out the anticipation.
"The Book of Fires" is a good, solid addition to the series, but by no means the best. A man has been murdered, his wife executed for the crime, and now those responsible for sending her to the stake are themselves being murdered, with Greek Fire. To add to the confusion, the murdered man was known to possess a book of instructions for the creation of the various grades of Greek Fire. Add a miracle at St Erconwald's to the mix, and Athelstan & Cranston's lives are once again going to hell in a hand basket.
"The Book of Fires" is well plotted and well written. As critics have said, Paul Doherty writes the middle ages so well you can almost hear it, see it, but, thank God, not smell it!
Well worth the read.
Was expecting this one to involve the Peasant's Revolt but noooo, Paul is dragging out the anticipation.
"The Book of Fires" is a good, solid addition to the series, but by no means the best. A man has been murdered, his wife executed for the crime, and now those responsible for sending her to the stake are themselves being murdered, with Greek Fire. To add to the confusion, the murdered man was known to possess a book of instructions for the creation of the various grades of Greek Fire. Add a miracle at St Erconwald's to the mix, and Athelstan & Cranston's lives are once again going to hell in a hand basket.
"The Book of Fires" is well plotted and well written. As critics have said, Paul Doherty writes the middle ages so well you can almost hear it, see it, but, thank God, not smell it!
Well worth the read.
September 23, 2021
Truly a HOT read!!
This English mystery is full of hate an evil doings. It really stumped me. I had no idea who was doing what to whom . I had no idea that such torture could be thought of.
This English mystery is full of hate an evil doings. It really stumped me. I had no idea who was doing what to whom . I had no idea that such torture could be thought of.
December 25, 2014
Another good book in the series. I especially enjoy this series not only for the main characters but I enjoy reading about the time frame especially since John of Gaunt is nit portrayed as a great heroic figures but rather as the aristocracy was, conniving and powerful and human.
February 27, 2023
The main character is a friar by the name of Brother Athelstan who with a knight named Jack Cranston investigates mysteries. This one is set just before the peasant revolt in 1381 led by Wat Tyler, and the angry feeling of frustration and injustice steeps through the book.
By the end of the book, the story has covered Greek fire, the crusades, John of Gaunt, a supposed miracle, Varangers in Constantinople, and more. The overall story is a mystery of who killed a powerful merchant lord and who is burning to death various folks involved in the trial of that man's wife for his murder.
Like the previous book of Doherty's I read, its a mix of great and poor. Uneven, it handles many concepts and topics well, but is so repetitive about basic clues and information (repeating line for line exact descriptions or statements) that it feels like a US TV show that recaps after every advertising block. Worse still, the final unveiling of the mystery was in bad faith: it relied on several pieces of information not given until the final explanation, and there was no pattern or logical chain the main detective followed to reach his conclusions, he simply didn't know what was going on, then did.
Still, the story was interesting and the characters well crafted and enjoyable. The setting is steeped in Medieval culture and scenery, and it has a very strong sense of time and location. The historical elements are well-researched, and I enjoyed reading about the mystery, even if it wasn't well crafted.
By the end of the book, the story has covered Greek fire, the crusades, John of Gaunt, a supposed miracle, Varangers in Constantinople, and more. The overall story is a mystery of who killed a powerful merchant lord and who is burning to death various folks involved in the trial of that man's wife for his murder.
Like the previous book of Doherty's I read, its a mix of great and poor. Uneven, it handles many concepts and topics well, but is so repetitive about basic clues and information (repeating line for line exact descriptions or statements) that it feels like a US TV show that recaps after every advertising block. Worse still, the final unveiling of the mystery was in bad faith: it relied on several pieces of information not given until the final explanation, and there was no pattern or logical chain the main detective followed to reach his conclusions, he simply didn't know what was going on, then did.
Still, the story was interesting and the characters well crafted and enjoyable. The setting is steeped in Medieval culture and scenery, and it has a very strong sense of time and location. The historical elements are well-researched, and I enjoyed reading about the mystery, even if it wasn't well crafted.
September 8, 2015
Book of Fires, aka The Sorrowful Mysteries of Brother Athelstan #14, was very entertaining and enjoyable. Volume #13 had a bit too much murder, did the author read my review, for this one was a lot different? The priest solves a series of interconnected mysteries, both connected with Church and society.
Having only read a few of the 14 books, I particularly this time get some more to read now.
The John of Gaunt era, and his problems with the common man or "Upright Men", apparently permeated and infiltrated the entire land and very strata of society. Brother Athelstan, as pastor of a cohesive flock, has a warm and fatherly ( or perhaps brotherly) concern for his parishioners. He is highly esteemed by many, the Coroner most of all!
Read this mystery and learn about Greek Fire and how it came to be utilized in medieval England, and why. Also "Who is the terrifying Fire Bringer – and what does he want? Was Isolda really guilty of murder?" enjoyed the homey peeks at Athelstan's household. His friends also were quite well fleshed out and endeared all of them to me. I plan to
You will love this one! Thanks Netgalley, 4 1/2 stars!
Having only read a few of the 14 books, I particularly this time get some more to read now.
The John of Gaunt era, and his problems with the common man or "Upright Men", apparently permeated and infiltrated the entire land and very strata of society. Brother Athelstan, as pastor of a cohesive flock, has a warm and fatherly ( or perhaps brotherly) concern for his parishioners. He is highly esteemed by many, the Coroner most of all!
Read this mystery and learn about Greek Fire and how it came to be utilized in medieval England, and why. Also "Who is the terrifying Fire Bringer – and what does he want? Was Isolda really guilty of murder?" enjoyed the homey peeks at Athelstan's household. His friends also were quite well fleshed out and endeared all of them to me. I plan to
You will love this one! Thanks Netgalley, 4 1/2 stars!
July 16, 2023
As usual, a strong, gripping plot from Paul Doherty. The Book of Fires is a Greek book about how to create all sorts of unique challenges fires and it seems to be responsible for the horrific deaths of men responsible for the death by burning of young Lady Isolda Beaumont for the poisoning of her husband. He, Black Beaumont, an “Ignifer” and the leader of a group of mercenaries who were known in Europe for their knowledge of gunpowder, cannon, and Greek fire, stole the Book of Fires from Constantinople and has taunted those who have come seeking it, telling them “it was safe on Patmos”. Athelstan and Sir John Cranston have been tasked by Gaunt to find who is burning men alive, and so begins the terrible race against a serial arsonist. In addition, Athelstan is presented with a seemingly rock-solid miracle in his own church when a terribly scarred and burned man rises up from his bed in the Church of St Erconwald on the saint’s feast day and claims he has been cured. All the Church officials certify it as an honest-to-God miracle but Athelstan is not so sure.
Set, as usual, in the teeming streets, alleys, and runnels of 14th Century London, and in the face of the growing power of the Great Community of the Realm, reading Doherty’s Sorrowful mysteries evoke a true feeling for life at all levels of society. This plot has enough twists and turns to satisfy any mystery lover as well as all the usual denizens of London. I hope he keeps writing these.
Set, as usual, in the teeming streets, alleys, and runnels of 14th Century London, and in the face of the growing power of the Great Community of the Realm, reading Doherty’s Sorrowful mysteries evoke a true feeling for life at all levels of society. This plot has enough twists and turns to satisfy any mystery lover as well as all the usual denizens of London. I hope he keeps writing these.
August 11, 2022
The Book of Fires A Brother Athelstan Mystery 14 by Paul Doherty
271 Pages
Publisher: Severn House
Release Date: January 1, 2015
Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, Greek Fire, 1380s, Medieval
This is the 14th book in the series and the first one I have read. It was an interesting to read from Brother Athelstan’s perspective. The murderer is ruthless with the use of a substance known as Greek Fire. The deaths seem to be concentrated on the people involved with the conviction of Lady Isolda Beaumont. One man is found in a locked concrete room burned to death. How could this have happened? The book has a good pace, and the characters are developed, and it is written in the third person point of view. If you enjoy period murder mysteries, you will like this one.
271 Pages
Publisher: Severn House
Release Date: January 1, 2015
Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, Greek Fire, 1380s, Medieval
This is the 14th book in the series and the first one I have read. It was an interesting to read from Brother Athelstan’s perspective. The murderer is ruthless with the use of a substance known as Greek Fire. The deaths seem to be concentrated on the people involved with the conviction of Lady Isolda Beaumont. One man is found in a locked concrete room burned to death. How could this have happened? The book has a good pace, and the characters are developed, and it is written in the third person point of view. If you enjoy period murder mysteries, you will like this one.
November 22, 2020
I am not sure if I have previously read Paul Doherty, I think not but maybe I have.
I listened to this story on audio book and found it fascinating that again there was a book with Greek Fire and deaths. Recently I had read a book set in Tudor times relating to Greek Fire.
Now this is in the time that John of Gaunt was powerful in England and there were many who were fighting against the taxes.
Brother Athelstan is investigating the circumstances behind a miracle, and the execution of a woman for the death of her husband.
I enjoyed the twists and turns and suggest this gives more insight into the life in England.
I listened to this story on audio book and found it fascinating that again there was a book with Greek Fire and deaths. Recently I had read a book set in Tudor times relating to Greek Fire.
Now this is in the time that John of Gaunt was powerful in England and there were many who were fighting against the taxes.
Brother Athelstan is investigating the circumstances behind a miracle, and the execution of a woman for the death of her husband.
I enjoyed the twists and turns and suggest this gives more insight into the life in England.
July 22, 2019
A good entry in the Brother Athelstan series, but only *** 'cos I guessed the baddy quite early on.
The widow of a wealthy merchant is burnt at the stake for his murder. Shortly after several people involved in her trial and conviction are attacked and horribly murdered with what appears to be Greek Fire. It seems the merchant was in possession of a book on the subject which he stole many years before and which wasn't in his possession after his death. Who has the book now and who else will they attack?
The widow of a wealthy merchant is burnt at the stake for his murder. Shortly after several people involved in her trial and conviction are attacked and horribly murdered with what appears to be Greek Fire. It seems the merchant was in possession of a book on the subject which he stole many years before and which wasn't in his possession after his death. Who has the book now and who else will they attack?
August 11, 2018
My Favourite Athelstane Mystery
My favourite mystery to date. For lots of reasons, mainly the writing device of not meeting a main character, but learning about her through witness reports and stories only. The Ignifer is a terrifying killer and the Greek Fire captures the imagination. I love how this story takes you beyond Medieval Britain and to Europe. I will probably re read this again. Just for the plot twists!
My favourite mystery to date. For lots of reasons, mainly the writing device of not meeting a main character, but learning about her through witness reports and stories only. The Ignifer is a terrifying killer and the Greek Fire captures the imagination. I love how this story takes you beyond Medieval Britain and to Europe. I will probably re read this again. Just for the plot twists!
April 23, 2025
Greek Fire
The words Greek Fire have mystified and have frightened men through history. A young lady is executed for murdering her husband. Months later the men involved in her trial are burned to death with what appears to be Greek Fire. The Upright Men are causing problems in London. Can brother Athelstan figure out who is burning men alive? Is the fire starter linked to the Upright Men? Will Cranston and Athelstan be set on fire too? It's a great story.
The words Greek Fire have mystified and have frightened men through history. A young lady is executed for murdering her husband. Months later the men involved in her trial are burned to death with what appears to be Greek Fire. The Upright Men are causing problems in London. Can brother Athelstan figure out who is burning men alive? Is the fire starter linked to the Upright Men? Will Cranston and Athelstan be set on fire too? It's a great story.
October 31, 2018
Historic revelation
The interwoven story of honor, deceit, hatred , love, brutality, suffering, history and finally murder. The characters challenge the reader with lies and schemes and all kinds of unusual challenges for a dynamic two man law enforcement in ancient England. Great read. Thanks
KenB
The interwoven story of honor, deceit, hatred , love, brutality, suffering, history and finally murder. The characters challenge the reader with lies and schemes and all kinds of unusual challenges for a dynamic two man law enforcement in ancient England. Great read. Thanks
KenB
April 6, 2018
Set in London in the fourteenth century, this is a very good mystery novel. The detective is a priest--Brother Athelstan. With the careful attention to details seen in Sherlock Homes, and the knowledge of human character seen in Father Brown, this a series worth reading.
November 12, 2022
C'est le 3° que je lis de la série, et je commence à m'y faire ! La solution de l'énigme est toujours donné à la fin, par le menu, par le fin limier qu'est le dominicain, qui par sa méthode me fait nettement penser à Hercule Poirot !
July 26, 2017
Another good one. Brother Athelstan does it again.
September 25, 2017
Men are Upright and wicked in a manly way. Women are simply witches and bitches. Misogynistic from start to end.
June 12, 2019
Wonderful, I
Marvellous,cannot wait to read the next one,I am never disappointed by anything Paul Doherty writes, ever,brilliant reads,cracking stories,superb,well done Paul
Marvellous,cannot wait to read the next one,I am never disappointed by anything Paul Doherty writes, ever,brilliant reads,cracking stories,superb,well done Paul
September 30, 2020
Book of Fire
Excellent who done it right up to the final chapter you do not suspect the real murderer, well worth the time to read.
Excellent who done it right up to the final chapter you do not suspect the real murderer, well worth the time to read.
August 25, 2021
Just a fun lil mystery thriller set in a lovingly drawn and lively medieval London. Fun characters, lots of mayhem, good stuff.
May 10, 2022
I had read this book before and truly enjoyed it. I normally love Paul Doherty writing, although there are a few disappointments among his gems.
August 2, 2022
Ferret Friar
Great as usual. John and Athelstan always figure it out. Fabulous location. Always keeps you guessing right until the end .
Great as usual. John and Athelstan always figure it out. Fabulous location. Always keeps you guessing right until the end .
March 7, 2023
Wow.
A twisting turning tale that left me on tenterhooks, questioning every lead and suspect a well as a few heart stopping moments. Really very well written
A twisting turning tale that left me on tenterhooks, questioning every lead and suspect a well as a few heart stopping moments. Really very well written
December 3, 2015
A complex plot with many characters means that this is a difficult mystery to solve. In fact there are two seemingly separate mysteries that ultimately come together by the end of the book. Everyone has a role and everyone is either a conspirator or a sympathizer with one or the other mysteries. Added to this soup is a rich description of the environment. Indeed, Doherty's depiction of late Medieval London is one of the strongest points of the book.
There is a lot of characterization. Doherty devotes considerable attention to developing each character. Readers are probably already well aware of Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston, the Coroner. Nevertheless, Doherty continues to describe them as richly as the novel-specific characters.
Brother Athelstan is a man of many conflicting emotions. This novel caught my attention because the first chapter introduces Aethelstan as the leader of a parish church where a miracle occurs. However, Aethelstan spends most of the book investigating the alleged miracle from the perspective of a disbeliever - a monk who disbelives in miracles. Doherty even includes a joke or two at this inconsistency.
The relationship between Athelstan and the Coroner is seemingly strange. Fans of televised murder mysteries can easily recognize the dynamic of a brilliant if awkward crime solver and the tough-as-nails formally empowered law enforcement officer. This relationship plays out at Sir John is clearly muscle and little wit, whereas Athelstan is wit with little muscle. Athelstan certainly barks; but Sir John has the bite. And Sir John seemingly blindly follows his companion. This relationship does lead to some strange situations, especially since Athelstan does seem to have a particular disdain for women. In fact he causes two of them to be arrested and taken to prison. One of them was arrested (by Sir John) on no evidence at all. Athelstan was just upset with her unsatisfactory answers. After hauling the poor woman to prison and paying bribes to prison officials to hold her (again paid by Sir John), Athelstan learns nothing useful from the woman and releases her without anything like an apology. Sir John, ever the obedient bull dog, does not even ask about it.
Ultimately, the book explains the mystery, not Athelstan. The mystery and the description are brilliant. However, Athelstan does not follow clues to uncover the villain. Instead, everything just happens and explains itself. The value of the book is the history and description. The mystery aspect is a disappointment.
There is a lot of characterization. Doherty devotes considerable attention to developing each character. Readers are probably already well aware of Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston, the Coroner. Nevertheless, Doherty continues to describe them as richly as the novel-specific characters.
Brother Athelstan is a man of many conflicting emotions. This novel caught my attention because the first chapter introduces Aethelstan as the leader of a parish church where a miracle occurs. However, Aethelstan spends most of the book investigating the alleged miracle from the perspective of a disbeliever - a monk who disbelives in miracles. Doherty even includes a joke or two at this inconsistency.
The relationship between Athelstan and the Coroner is seemingly strange. Fans of televised murder mysteries can easily recognize the dynamic of a brilliant if awkward crime solver and the tough-as-nails formally empowered law enforcement officer. This relationship plays out at Sir John is clearly muscle and little wit, whereas Athelstan is wit with little muscle. Athelstan certainly barks; but Sir John has the bite. And Sir John seemingly blindly follows his companion. This relationship does lead to some strange situations, especially since Athelstan does seem to have a particular disdain for women. In fact he causes two of them to be arrested and taken to prison. One of them was arrested (by Sir John) on no evidence at all. Athelstan was just upset with her unsatisfactory answers. After hauling the poor woman to prison and paying bribes to prison officials to hold her (again paid by Sir John), Athelstan learns nothing useful from the woman and releases her without anything like an apology. Sir John, ever the obedient bull dog, does not even ask about it.
Ultimately, the book explains the mystery, not Athelstan. The mystery and the description are brilliant. However, Athelstan does not follow clues to uncover the villain. Instead, everything just happens and explains itself. The value of the book is the history and description. The mystery aspect is a disappointment.
March 28, 2015
Doherty Does It Again
As the Peasants Revolt nears, various threads that have endured through all the Brother Athelstan books come together. This time, Brother Athelstan and Coroner Cranston investigate the death of lady Isolde who has been executed by being burned to death for murdering her husband. But did she do it? Her husband was an extremely wealthy former soldier who, during his travels in Greece, came into possession of the mysterious Book of Fires. This book contains the secret of making fire that will adhere to whatever it is thrown upon and is impossible to put out with water. Its value in war is incomparable. After his death, the book disappears. As Athelstan and John Cranston become more involved, various people who had anything to do with Isolde's conviction for her husband's murder are themselves murdered by having Greek Fire thrown on them and ignited. In the meantime, a true miracle seems to have occurred at Brother Athelstan's church which results in an influx of strangers and worshipers from different areas. Brother Athelstan doubts that this is a true miracle, but is unable to disapprove it. During all this, the Upright Men continue to conspire and plan what will be the Peasants Revolt. In a foretaste of what is to come, Greek Fire is leveled at John of Gaunt's flotilla and nearly destroys it. Brother Athelstan and Coroner Cranston both become targets for immolation by Greek Fire and it becomes crucial to find the murderer, the book and stop once and for all these multiple immolations. In his usual masterful style, Paul Doherty weaves together the various strands to solve, through logical deduction, the murders and mysteries. This wonderful series seems to be nearing a conclusion. I strongly recommend these fascinating books to anyone who is the least bit interested in medieval history, particularly the 1300s. Doherty's strong writing style and incredible talent for vivid description make this a delightful book to lose yourself in.
As the Peasants Revolt nears, various threads that have endured through all the Brother Athelstan books come together. This time, Brother Athelstan and Coroner Cranston investigate the death of lady Isolde who has been executed by being burned to death for murdering her husband. But did she do it? Her husband was an extremely wealthy former soldier who, during his travels in Greece, came into possession of the mysterious Book of Fires. This book contains the secret of making fire that will adhere to whatever it is thrown upon and is impossible to put out with water. Its value in war is incomparable. After his death, the book disappears. As Athelstan and John Cranston become more involved, various people who had anything to do with Isolde's conviction for her husband's murder are themselves murdered by having Greek Fire thrown on them and ignited. In the meantime, a true miracle seems to have occurred at Brother Athelstan's church which results in an influx of strangers and worshipers from different areas. Brother Athelstan doubts that this is a true miracle, but is unable to disapprove it. During all this, the Upright Men continue to conspire and plan what will be the Peasants Revolt. In a foretaste of what is to come, Greek Fire is leveled at John of Gaunt's flotilla and nearly destroys it. Brother Athelstan and Coroner Cranston both become targets for immolation by Greek Fire and it becomes crucial to find the murderer, the book and stop once and for all these multiple immolations. In his usual masterful style, Paul Doherty weaves together the various strands to solve, through logical deduction, the murders and mysteries. This wonderful series seems to be nearing a conclusion. I strongly recommend these fascinating books to anyone who is the least bit interested in medieval history, particularly the 1300s. Doherty's strong writing style and incredible talent for vivid description make this a delightful book to lose yourself in.
January 2, 2015
Medieval mystery at its best!
A young woman, Lady Isolda Beaumont is condemned for the murder of her powerful merchant husband and burned alive at the stake. Walter 'Black' Beaumont, an expert in canons, was known to hold the secret to creating explosive fires, and was rumoured to have Mark the Greek's 'Book of Fires' stolen from the Greek emperor in Constantinople. The Book contained the secret of Greek Fire, a highly volatile substance that will ignite even when thrown on water.
Isolda's judges are being attacked, doused by a mysterious liquid, set alight and burnt alive by a mysterious harbinger of destruction . Are those with old and malignant grudges and discord seeking retribution?
Brother Athelston with his old friend and sleuth Sir a John Cranston are caught up in the mystery behind the murder of the merchant and the attacks on the judges.
Brother Athelston is also stunned by a sudden miracle in his church. A man crippled and burnt down one side is suddenly healed!
At the same time many of his parishioners are caught up in the movement of the Upright Men against John of Gaunt, against the deprivation that they are being forced to endure.
The mystery deepens, plots intertwine and Athelston's patience and understanding are stretched to the limit by the momentous happenings that are brought into play.
Doherty's writing is tight, his descriptive prose has the conditions of the times leaping off the page. One can feel the squalor and turgid surroundings of the streets through which Athelston trudges. Athelston's humble abode is a tranquil pool of stillness amongst the tensions of the surrounding countryside.
A NetGalley ARC
A young woman, Lady Isolda Beaumont is condemned for the murder of her powerful merchant husband and burned alive at the stake. Walter 'Black' Beaumont, an expert in canons, was known to hold the secret to creating explosive fires, and was rumoured to have Mark the Greek's 'Book of Fires' stolen from the Greek emperor in Constantinople. The Book contained the secret of Greek Fire, a highly volatile substance that will ignite even when thrown on water.
Isolda's judges are being attacked, doused by a mysterious liquid, set alight and burnt alive by a mysterious harbinger of destruction . Are those with old and malignant grudges and discord seeking retribution?
Brother Athelston with his old friend and sleuth Sir a John Cranston are caught up in the mystery behind the murder of the merchant and the attacks on the judges.
Brother Athelston is also stunned by a sudden miracle in his church. A man crippled and burnt down one side is suddenly healed!
At the same time many of his parishioners are caught up in the movement of the Upright Men against John of Gaunt, against the deprivation that they are being forced to endure.
The mystery deepens, plots intertwine and Athelston's patience and understanding are stretched to the limit by the momentous happenings that are brought into play.
Doherty's writing is tight, his descriptive prose has the conditions of the times leaping off the page. One can feel the squalor and turgid surroundings of the streets through which Athelston trudges. Athelston's humble abode is a tranquil pool of stillness amongst the tensions of the surrounding countryside.
A NetGalley ARC
March 25, 2015
3.5 stars - I was frustrated that this book didn't move closer to the revolt of 1381, but actually picks up within days or weeks of Doherty's two stellar previous books in this favorite series, "Straw Men" and "Candle Flame" - all three books take place in February 1381, that is one busy month for Sir Jack and Athelstan! I read both of those books just before this one and the comparison was rather stark, as both books were so gripping and relatively fast-paced (for mysteries set in medieval London).
The only parts of this mystery that felt gripping were when Athelstan and Cranston were being stalked by the demonic Ignifer, a villain who dowsed victims in Greek fire and set them alight; and although it was interesting to see Athelstan deal with a healing miracle at St. Erconwald's, the way that mystery was tied into the identity of the Ignifer and the ongoing lead-up to the revolt against Regent John of Gaunt felt forced. Otherwise, as another reviewer here noted, our two heroes seemed to go back and forth interviewing the same suspects and asking the same questions and making little progress for most of the book. This is one of my favorite mystery series, but this book felt like Doherty was stalling before dealing with the revolt and I think lost some of the momentum of the last several books; I understand he has delivered the next in the series to his publisher and is working on another Athelstan mystery, so I look forward with great anticipation to seeing what he gives us readers next. I hope we will finally get to March at least...Recommended to fans of the series, but I don't think it was as good as the last several books.
The only parts of this mystery that felt gripping were when Athelstan and Cranston were being stalked by the demonic Ignifer, a villain who dowsed victims in Greek fire and set them alight; and although it was interesting to see Athelstan deal with a healing miracle at St. Erconwald's, the way that mystery was tied into the identity of the Ignifer and the ongoing lead-up to the revolt against Regent John of Gaunt felt forced. Otherwise, as another reviewer here noted, our two heroes seemed to go back and forth interviewing the same suspects and asking the same questions and making little progress for most of the book. This is one of my favorite mystery series, but this book felt like Doherty was stalling before dealing with the revolt and I think lost some of the momentum of the last several books; I understand he has delivered the next in the series to his publisher and is working on another Athelstan mystery, so I look forward with great anticipation to seeing what he gives us readers next. I hope we will finally get to March at least...Recommended to fans of the series, but I don't think it was as good as the last several books.
May 28, 2015
I didn't know about the Athelstan series, but now I do and am I happy about that. Being a fan of medieval mysteries, I'm always excited to find a new series that I enjoy. Brother Athelstan is an astute friar with a sharp wit and perceptive mind. He is kind and compassionate, but has a very human side, a side that isn't always patience and sympathy. I like that. The book highlighted some of the dark realities of living in the time period, when life was hard for most. The author has a wider vocabulary than some medieval mystery writers; I was looking up a few of the terms. I will be reading the Athelstan series, as well as the author's other books.
July 8, 2015
Based on the first 10 pages are so, there were 3 dead bodies as a result of a gruesome death so one would think this would be an excellent start to a mystery. However, as the book continued, my mind started to wonder and lose focus on the plot. Perhaps it was the somewhat lifeless characters? Or the somewhat tepid mystery? Even the notion of a "dangerous but powerful" book up for grabs could not hold my fragile attention any longer. I eventually had to abandon this book but not before getting to well over 1/2 of this book when I finally called it quits.
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