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The Bishopsgate Ward Mysteries #2
Death of a Fugitive
This Ward, Cutler… it seethes, does it not?
1595, Bishopsgate Ward, London.
Matthew Cutler, constable for the parish of Spitalfields, prides himself on always being on the side of justice. So when a young man on the run, whose only ‘crime’ was protesting about high prices and corruption, hides out in Bishopsgate, not for the first time Cutler finds his duties as constable at odds with his gut feeling. He feels compelled to help him, and not just because his daughter Jane is smitten with the plucky lad…
Meanwhile there is trouble in Bishopsgate as fake coins keep turning up, convincing enough to fool many. Tensions rise and people are in fear of a brutal yet shadowy the ‘coiner’ Thomas Gunnell, who seems to have eyes everywhere. Cutler must once again fall back on his skills of disguise, and risk his own life to root out Gunnell’s gang before they bring chaos to Bishopsgate Ward – and danger to everything he holds dear.
1595, Bishopsgate Ward, London.
Matthew Cutler, constable for the parish of Spitalfields, prides himself on always being on the side of justice. So when a young man on the run, whose only ‘crime’ was protesting about high prices and corruption, hides out in Bishopsgate, not for the first time Cutler finds his duties as constable at odds with his gut feeling. He feels compelled to help him, and not just because his daughter Jane is smitten with the plucky lad…
Meanwhile there is trouble in Bishopsgate as fake coins keep turning up, convincing enough to fool many. Tensions rise and people are in fear of a brutal yet shadowy the ‘coiner’ Thomas Gunnell, who seems to have eyes everywhere. Cutler must once again fall back on his skills of disguise, and risk his own life to root out Gunnell’s gang before they bring chaos to Bishopsgate Ward – and danger to everything he holds dear.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2026
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
1595 Bishopsgate Ward. A gang of coiners are active in the area. Constable Cutler with help decides to investigate. But what will be the cost. He also has trouble at home to contend with as his daughter Jane is behaving suspiciously.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its interesting cast of characters. A good second book in this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its interesting cast of characters. A good second book in this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 16, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced reader copy of Death of a Fugitive by John Pilkington.
Death of a Fugitive is an immersive and richly atmospheric Tudor mystery that once again proves why Matthew Cutler is such a compelling protagonist. Set in 1595 London during a time of unrest, bad harvests, riots, and growing fear among the poorer classes, the novel combines an engaging historical mystery with strong moral conflict and vivid period detail.
Matthew Cutler continues to be one of the strongest aspects of this series. As a constable in Bishopsgate Ward, he is tasked with upholding the law during increasingly tense times, but what makes him so interesting is the constant balance between duty and compassion. While authorities focus on punishing rebels involved in riots, Matthew becomes drawn into the investigation of counterfeit coins spreading throughout the area. His determination to uncover the truth, even when it places him in danger or conflicts with those above him, makes him incredibly easy to root for.
The mystery surrounding the coiners was well developed and kept me invested throughout the story. Pilkington does an excellent job slowly unraveling the conspiracy while also weaving in the everyday struggles of Tudor London. The setting feels alive in every scene — cold streets, fearful citizens, crowded taverns, public hangings, and the constant tension between survival and justice all create a world that feels authentic and immersive.
I also appreciated the more personal elements of the story. Alongside the investigation, Matthew is dealing with grief after the death of his father as well as concerns about his daughter Jane, whose secretive behavior adds another layer of tension to the novel. These domestic storylines help ground the mystery and make the characters feel fully realized rather than existing only to serve the plot.
What stood out most to me was how thoughtfully the book handled morality and justice. Matthew is not simply chasing criminals; he is constantly questioning what is truly right in a world where poverty, desperation, and corruption blur the lines between lawful and unjust. That emotional and ethical depth gives the story much more weight than a standard historical mystery.
Overall, Death of a Fugitive is a well-written, atmospheric, and deeply engaging historical mystery filled with believable characters, strong tension, and fascinating Tudor-era detail. Fans of historical crime fiction, especially mysteries grounded in rich historical settings and morally complex investigations, will thoroughly enjoy this series.
Death of a Fugitive is an immersive and richly atmospheric Tudor mystery that once again proves why Matthew Cutler is such a compelling protagonist. Set in 1595 London during a time of unrest, bad harvests, riots, and growing fear among the poorer classes, the novel combines an engaging historical mystery with strong moral conflict and vivid period detail.
Matthew Cutler continues to be one of the strongest aspects of this series. As a constable in Bishopsgate Ward, he is tasked with upholding the law during increasingly tense times, but what makes him so interesting is the constant balance between duty and compassion. While authorities focus on punishing rebels involved in riots, Matthew becomes drawn into the investigation of counterfeit coins spreading throughout the area. His determination to uncover the truth, even when it places him in danger or conflicts with those above him, makes him incredibly easy to root for.
The mystery surrounding the coiners was well developed and kept me invested throughout the story. Pilkington does an excellent job slowly unraveling the conspiracy while also weaving in the everyday struggles of Tudor London. The setting feels alive in every scene — cold streets, fearful citizens, crowded taverns, public hangings, and the constant tension between survival and justice all create a world that feels authentic and immersive.
I also appreciated the more personal elements of the story. Alongside the investigation, Matthew is dealing with grief after the death of his father as well as concerns about his daughter Jane, whose secretive behavior adds another layer of tension to the novel. These domestic storylines help ground the mystery and make the characters feel fully realized rather than existing only to serve the plot.
What stood out most to me was how thoughtfully the book handled morality and justice. Matthew is not simply chasing criminals; he is constantly questioning what is truly right in a world where poverty, desperation, and corruption blur the lines between lawful and unjust. That emotional and ethical depth gives the story much more weight than a standard historical mystery.
Overall, Death of a Fugitive is a well-written, atmospheric, and deeply engaging historical mystery filled with believable characters, strong tension, and fascinating Tudor-era detail. Fans of historical crime fiction, especially mysteries grounded in rich historical settings and morally complex investigations, will thoroughly enjoy this series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
We first met former actor turned constable Matthew Cutler in Death of a Stranger, which takes you to Spitalfields, a poor area of wider London, in the last years of Elizabeth I’s reign. In the second book, Death of a Fugitive, things aren’t going too well for Matthew – he’s just returned from his father’s funeral, and it’s a cold night, made colder by the instruction that he’s expected to attend a hanging.
Bad harvests and inflation driven by greed among the merchant class has meant poorer people are starving. Riots have led to a rounding up of rebels, and three of those involved are the young apprentices facing the death penalty. The town constables are required to be present to show they mean business. As more rebels are sought, Matthew is meant to give his all to hunt them down. But he’s soon distracted by the discovery of counterfeit coins.
There’s some relief, in that Crown Commissioners have been sent to offer money to families in need, among them an old university friend of Matthew’s, Lucas Moffett. And among the most in need of help, the Broad family, living on their wits, with young Gilly Broad himself discovered palming off a counterfeit coin. Matthew’s far more interested in finding who is making the dud currency than tracking down the rebels. He has no wish to see more angry young lads sent to the gallows, but has a battle to keep his superiors happy.
As if that isn’t enough to keep him up at night, Matthew’s also worried about his younger daughter Jane, who has been keeping secrets and meeting up with a new friend she’s reluctant to bring home. And Margery surprisingly has a suitor, which she finds more embarrassing than flattering.
The story threads weave in and out of the plot, with a murder or two spaced nicely at intervals to keep things interesting. Danger closes in and the perpetrators are suitably nasty and hard to pin down. There are enough surprises to keep you guessing and a brilliant ending. Altogether, this is a very satisfying read, and Matthew Cutler, an interesting and complex character and not just your average law enforcer. I shall be keen to check in with him again to see how his career is going, if there’s romance in the wings for him and his family, and to learn more about this little nook of British history.
Death of a Fugitive is another well-researched and immersive read from Pilkington, bringing the era to life and a four star read from me. Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy of the novel in return for an honest review. Death of a Fugitive is due for release on 13 May.
Bad harvests and inflation driven by greed among the merchant class has meant poorer people are starving. Riots have led to a rounding up of rebels, and three of those involved are the young apprentices facing the death penalty. The town constables are required to be present to show they mean business. As more rebels are sought, Matthew is meant to give his all to hunt them down. But he’s soon distracted by the discovery of counterfeit coins.
There’s some relief, in that Crown Commissioners have been sent to offer money to families in need, among them an old university friend of Matthew’s, Lucas Moffett. And among the most in need of help, the Broad family, living on their wits, with young Gilly Broad himself discovered palming off a counterfeit coin. Matthew’s far more interested in finding who is making the dud currency than tracking down the rebels. He has no wish to see more angry young lads sent to the gallows, but has a battle to keep his superiors happy.
As if that isn’t enough to keep him up at night, Matthew’s also worried about his younger daughter Jane, who has been keeping secrets and meeting up with a new friend she’s reluctant to bring home. And Margery surprisingly has a suitor, which she finds more embarrassing than flattering.
The story threads weave in and out of the plot, with a murder or two spaced nicely at intervals to keep things interesting. Danger closes in and the perpetrators are suitably nasty and hard to pin down. There are enough surprises to keep you guessing and a brilliant ending. Altogether, this is a very satisfying read, and Matthew Cutler, an interesting and complex character and not just your average law enforcer. I shall be keen to check in with him again to see how his career is going, if there’s romance in the wings for him and his family, and to learn more about this little nook of British history.
Death of a Fugitive is another well-researched and immersive read from Pilkington, bringing the era to life and a four star read from me. Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy of the novel in return for an honest review. Death of a Fugitive is due for release on 13 May.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Death of a Fugitive is one of those Tudor mysteries that slips you straight into the grit and bustle of London and lets you feel the tension rising in the very stones beneath your feet. John Pilkington returns to Bishopsgate Ward with a story that hums with unease, where justice is never as simple as the law would like it to be.
Matthew Cutler remains a wonderfully grounded lead—steady, principled, and quietly stubborn in all the ways that make him compelling. His instinct to protect a young protester on the run sets the whole novel thrumming with moral conflict, especially as his daughter Jane’s heart becomes entangled in the matter. Pilkington handles this thread with a light touch, letting the emotional stakes build naturally without ever tipping into melodrama.
What really shines here is the sense of place. Bishopsgate feels alive: crowded, suspicious, and simmering with fear as counterfeit coins circulate and whispers of the elusive Thomas Gunnell spread like smoke. The coiner’s presence is felt long before he steps onto the page, and that shadowy menace gives the novel a deliciously taut undercurrent. Watching Cutler slip back into disguise and risk everything to uncover the truth is as gripping as ever, and the danger feels real, immediate, and close enough to taste.
It’s a story of loyalty, conscience, and the quiet bravery of ordinary people trying to do right in a world that rarely rewards it. Atmospheric, engaging, and threaded with just the right amount of peril, this instalment proves once again why Pilkington’s Tudor mysteries are such a pleasure to sink into.
With thanks to John Pilkington, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Matthew Cutler remains a wonderfully grounded lead—steady, principled, and quietly stubborn in all the ways that make him compelling. His instinct to protect a young protester on the run sets the whole novel thrumming with moral conflict, especially as his daughter Jane’s heart becomes entangled in the matter. Pilkington handles this thread with a light touch, letting the emotional stakes build naturally without ever tipping into melodrama.
What really shines here is the sense of place. Bishopsgate feels alive: crowded, suspicious, and simmering with fear as counterfeit coins circulate and whispers of the elusive Thomas Gunnell spread like smoke. The coiner’s presence is felt long before he steps onto the page, and that shadowy menace gives the novel a deliciously taut undercurrent. Watching Cutler slip back into disguise and risk everything to uncover the truth is as gripping as ever, and the danger feels real, immediate, and close enough to taste.
It’s a story of loyalty, conscience, and the quiet bravery of ordinary people trying to do right in a world that rarely rewards it. Atmospheric, engaging, and threaded with just the right amount of peril, this instalment proves once again why Pilkington’s Tudor mysteries are such a pleasure to sink into.
With thanks to John Pilkington, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This second book of the Bishopgate Ward murder mysteries is set in the year 1595.
Constable Matthew Cutler has recently returned from Canterbury after attending the funeral of his father. He is informed that he will be needed to attend a hanging the next day, there have been food riots after two years of bad harvests, and the resultant food shortages have greatly displeased Queen Elizabeth, so three young men will die as a warning to others.
Matthew is approached by the landlord of the White Hart, counterfeit coins have been passed in his establishment, all carefully treated and shaped to look like silver, but they are mainly pewter. When more are discovered, Matthew wonders if a gang of coiners are working in this ward.
When his father- in- law is paid for his honest work in fake coins, that makes it personal. Matthew and his trusted fellow constables make it their business to find the responsible parties.
Their search leads them to a startling discovery and a betrayal of a personal friendship for Matthew. There are deaths to be sure, and a kindly subterfuge that may have implications for his family in affairs of the heart.
These harsh and cruel times are vividly described, life was cheap and punishments were severe. Justice was sometimes metered out informally by aggrieved citizens.
A slow start, but then it became full of action, with a skilful blend of historical facts and fiction, and genuine characters and backstories. I enjoyed this very much and rated this as a four star read.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers Boldwood Books for my advance copy, freely given in return for my honest review.
Constable Matthew Cutler has recently returned from Canterbury after attending the funeral of his father. He is informed that he will be needed to attend a hanging the next day, there have been food riots after two years of bad harvests, and the resultant food shortages have greatly displeased Queen Elizabeth, so three young men will die as a warning to others.
Matthew is approached by the landlord of the White Hart, counterfeit coins have been passed in his establishment, all carefully treated and shaped to look like silver, but they are mainly pewter. When more are discovered, Matthew wonders if a gang of coiners are working in this ward.
When his father- in- law is paid for his honest work in fake coins, that makes it personal. Matthew and his trusted fellow constables make it their business to find the responsible parties.
Their search leads them to a startling discovery and a betrayal of a personal friendship for Matthew. There are deaths to be sure, and a kindly subterfuge that may have implications for his family in affairs of the heart.
These harsh and cruel times are vividly described, life was cheap and punishments were severe. Justice was sometimes metered out informally by aggrieved citizens.
A slow start, but then it became full of action, with a skilful blend of historical facts and fiction, and genuine characters and backstories. I enjoyed this very much and rated this as a four star read.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers Boldwood Books for my advance copy, freely given in return for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Set in 1595 in the final years of Elizabeth I’s reign, this is the second in the series featuring Matthew Cutler, constable of the parish of Bishopsgate.
The period setting in this series is excellent. Life is hard for most people and poor harvests have led to riots. Elizabeth’s government is far more concerned with capturing ring leaders of the riots rather than looking into the spate of counterfeit coins which are mysteriously appearing. As in the first book, Matthew is torn between doing what he knows is right and obeying the instructions of those higher up.
I love Matthew’s character and enjoyed seeing him get another opportunity in this book to use his theatrical skills to try and solve the problems that are plaguing his neighbourhood. The plot about the counterfeit coins was well thought out and involved the death and violence that were all too common in the poorer parts of Tudor England. I enjoyed seeing how Matthew solved his problems even though if it meant that there was no happy ending for one of the characters.
This was another intriguing mystery by John Pilkington and I am very grateful to Net Galley and the publishers, Boldwood Books, for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The period setting in this series is excellent. Life is hard for most people and poor harvests have led to riots. Elizabeth’s government is far more concerned with capturing ring leaders of the riots rather than looking into the spate of counterfeit coins which are mysteriously appearing. As in the first book, Matthew is torn between doing what he knows is right and obeying the instructions of those higher up.
I love Matthew’s character and enjoyed seeing him get another opportunity in this book to use his theatrical skills to try and solve the problems that are plaguing his neighbourhood. The plot about the counterfeit coins was well thought out and involved the death and violence that were all too common in the poorer parts of Tudor England. I enjoyed seeing how Matthew solved his problems even though if it meant that there was no happy ending for one of the characters.
This was another intriguing mystery by John Pilkington and I am very grateful to Net Galley and the publishers, Boldwood Books, for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
For fans of historical fiction who are tired of modern attitudes sneaking into the past, this latest instalment from John Pilkington is a breath of fresh air. Set in the gritty, seething world of 1595 London, it is a perfect example of how to write immersive historical fiction without falling into the traps of anachronisms or "Americanisms."
The story follows Matthew Cutler, a constable whose sense of justice is as sharp as his instincts. Cutler is exactly the kind of hero you want to root for—he is just, kind, and tough, yet deeply human. His internal struggle between his official duties and his gut feeling for a young, plucky "criminal" adds a wonderful layer of tension to the broader mystery of fake coins and the shadowy coiner, Thomas Gunnell.
Pilkington’s portrayal of Bishopsgate Ward is vivid and all-encompassing. You don’t just read about this world; you feel the fear of the residents and the weight of the encroaching chaos. It is a rare treat to find a book that respects the mores and attitudes of its time so completely while still delivering a gripping, fast-paced mystery.
I am already looking forward to the next in the series. If you want a story that feels truly real, this is a must-read.
The story follows Matthew Cutler, a constable whose sense of justice is as sharp as his instincts. Cutler is exactly the kind of hero you want to root for—he is just, kind, and tough, yet deeply human. His internal struggle between his official duties and his gut feeling for a young, plucky "criminal" adds a wonderful layer of tension to the broader mystery of fake coins and the shadowy coiner, Thomas Gunnell.
Pilkington’s portrayal of Bishopsgate Ward is vivid and all-encompassing. You don’t just read about this world; you feel the fear of the residents and the weight of the encroaching chaos. It is a rare treat to find a book that respects the mores and attitudes of its time so completely while still delivering a gripping, fast-paced mystery.
I am already looking forward to the next in the series. If you want a story that feels truly real, this is a must-read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance reader copy of Death of a Fugitive. All opinions and comments are my own.
Much tumult in London, over bad harvests, and high prices. Rioting has led to trials and executions. Hangings are expected to be a warning to others, to keep the peace or suffer the consequences. As a constable, Matthew Cutler has to fight with the contrast between his duty and his human empathy. And then there are his problems at home; daughter Jane is acting very mysteriously. It’s a lot to handle, and add in the finding of counterfeit money, he’s got a whole lot of trouble on his hands. At least he has an old friend on hand to help him with the investigation.
Readers will have a lot to think about in Death of a Fugitive, as Matthew and his fellow constables work to uncover and destroy the band of “coiners” (and there are twists and turns to be found there) while on a personal front, he must bring domestic tranquility to his family. That he accomplishes both in a satisfying fashion is a testament to the author’s grasp of his characters’ motivations and the tenor of the medieval times. A good constable, and a good man, in difficult times.
Much tumult in London, over bad harvests, and high prices. Rioting has led to trials and executions. Hangings are expected to be a warning to others, to keep the peace or suffer the consequences. As a constable, Matthew Cutler has to fight with the contrast between his duty and his human empathy. And then there are his problems at home; daughter Jane is acting very mysteriously. It’s a lot to handle, and add in the finding of counterfeit money, he’s got a whole lot of trouble on his hands. At least he has an old friend on hand to help him with the investigation.
Readers will have a lot to think about in Death of a Fugitive, as Matthew and his fellow constables work to uncover and destroy the band of “coiners” (and there are twists and turns to be found there) while on a personal front, he must bring domestic tranquility to his family. That he accomplishes both in a satisfying fashion is a testament to the author’s grasp of his characters’ motivations and the tenor of the medieval times. A good constable, and a good man, in difficult times.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Death of a Fugitive is the secod book in the Bishopsgate Ward Mysteries, and I have read book 1.
Like the first book, our main character is Matthew Cutler, although he is assisted by a number of collegues (if such they could be called). The story unfolds mostly through his eyes, as he pieces together events that have occured during a short absence from the ward. Quite a lot of time has elapsed since the first book - his oldest daughter is married, and his wife's aunt is being pursued by a suitor, while his own fledgling love affair is largely absent in this book, aside from a few odd mentions.
No sooner has he settled in the local tavern, than the mystery begins to unravel. Is there someone passing off fake coins in the area and how are they doing it? Cutler is resolved to finding out.
Like the first book, Death of a Fugitive is filled with information about the late Tudor era. It is also written in a slightly archaic way, (purposefully), but once you get used to it, it doesn't distract from the story, which rumbles along at a decent enough pace, although I found some elements a little slow.
That said, this was a very enjoyable mystery and Cutler does once more, place himself in terrible danger in order to bring the enemy to justice, making some rather tricky decisions along the way.
Like the first book, our main character is Matthew Cutler, although he is assisted by a number of collegues (if such they could be called). The story unfolds mostly through his eyes, as he pieces together events that have occured during a short absence from the ward. Quite a lot of time has elapsed since the first book - his oldest daughter is married, and his wife's aunt is being pursued by a suitor, while his own fledgling love affair is largely absent in this book, aside from a few odd mentions.
No sooner has he settled in the local tavern, than the mystery begins to unravel. Is there someone passing off fake coins in the area and how are they doing it? Cutler is resolved to finding out.
Like the first book, Death of a Fugitive is filled with information about the late Tudor era. It is also written in a slightly archaic way, (purposefully), but once you get used to it, it doesn't distract from the story, which rumbles along at a decent enough pace, although I found some elements a little slow.
That said, this was a very enjoyable mystery and Cutler does once more, place himself in terrible danger in order to bring the enemy to justice, making some rather tricky decisions along the way.
May 14, 2026
Matthew Cutler is a Constable in 1595 London. He is astute, kind, empathetic but with a strong understanding of the law. There are several riots happening due to high costs of food and bad harvests. The people causing these riots are considered rebels and they are being punished. While Matthew is dealing with the loss of his father, he is also expected to help catch these rebels. As these riots progress, counterfeit coins are being distributed and found in the area. As Matthew becomes invested in the coins, he is also dealing with things at home with his daughter and with a protesters that is was keen on protecting.
There is a lot going on in this town, and it was all very enjoyable. I like Matthew's character, specially when there is a moral dilemma at hand and he always manages it with grace. The town suspicions, the danger and the fear are palpable throughout the story. And as always Matthew will risk everything to get to the truth. Sometimes doing the right thing is the only right decision.
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
There is a lot going on in this town, and it was all very enjoyable. I like Matthew's character, specially when there is a moral dilemma at hand and he always manages it with grace. The town suspicions, the danger and the fear are palpable throughout the story. And as always Matthew will risk everything to get to the truth. Sometimes doing the right thing is the only right decision.
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
May 17, 2026
1595 Bishopsgate Ward, London. Matthew Cutler, Constable for the ward, has discovered that fake coins are being passed to local businesses. Hearing that lights have been seen at night in an abandoned house he raises a party of men to help investigate, as it may be the coiners at work. It isn’t but it is a successful raid on an unlawful printing press and that brings him to the attention of the Sheriff. The Sheriff isn’t interested in finding the coiners, but he is interested in finding the ringleaders of the riots that have been taking place and tells Matthew to look throughout his ward and find any fugitives hiding there. Unfortunately, that order comes a little too close to home for Matthew’s liking.
Another well written and engaging story with interesting characters. Matthew is an honest man with a strong sense of justice, but he also brings a great deal of compassion to his work, which can get him into trouble. His work and family life are vividly described as are the poor conditions that many of the people live in. An enjoyable read.
Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.
Another well written and engaging story with interesting characters. Matthew is an honest man with a strong sense of justice, but he also brings a great deal of compassion to his work, which can get him into trouble. His work and family life are vividly described as are the poor conditions that many of the people live in. An enjoyable read.
Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The second in this likeable cosy historical series featuring Constable Matthew Cutler. Set in London during the reign of Elizabeth I, Matthew must uncover a gang who are spreading fake coins throughout the Bishopsgate area.
Matthew is an engaging character, backed up by a well-developed group of family and friends. The historical setting is well-written and vividly brought to life. I found the pace of the first half of the book to be a bit too slow for my liking but the second half was more energetic as the plot unfolded.
An entertaining read.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
Matthew is an engaging character, backed up by a well-developed group of family and friends. The historical setting is well-written and vividly brought to life. I found the pace of the first half of the book to be a bit too slow for my liking but the second half was more energetic as the plot unfolded.
An entertaining read.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Enjoyed this. Cutler, Townley and Farrant are 3 constables in Bishopsgate. Cutler and Farrant don't always see eye to eye with Farrant having a reputation for not doing much, but enjoying gore and hangings. The constables are searching for coiners who have been using fake coins in the local area, and a local family are suspected. Alongside that, they are also looking for fugitive prentices who have been leading an uprising. Cutler is also dealing with changes in his daughter who is refusing to confide in him. It is very evocative of the period and the work these constables had to do, supported by others in the community.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed this mystery novel involving Cutler! Book 1 of the series was good, but this one was even better. The plot about coining was gripping indeed with much action and remained so up to the conclusion. What I mostly loved though, are the characters. Rather original, extremely likeable as well as relatable, they all were convincing and actually make the series special (for me!). A very promising series!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Set in 1595, a year after the first book, we continue to follow Matthew Cutler as he parish constables his way around Spitalfields and wider parts of London. I missed Margaret in this story, but otherwise enjoyed the twists and turns and general Tudor slice-of-life telling.
One note -- I do feel like the current blurb covers rather too much of the plot, so I'd recommend if you enjoyed the first one, to go into this as cold as possible and enjoy it from there.
Rating: 15/20
This review is based upon a complimentary advance reading copy provided by the publisher.
One note -- I do feel like the current blurb covers rather too much of the plot, so I'd recommend if you enjoyed the first one, to go into this as cold as possible and enjoy it from there.
Rating: 15/20
This review is based upon a complimentary advance reading copy provided by the publisher.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the second in the Bishopsgate Ward Mysteries. Matthew Cutler, a parish constable in Tudor London, is tasked with investigating the circulation of forged coins.
I enjoyed the combination of villainy and domestic life. It was fairly fast paced and kept me interested throughout the book.
The characters and places were vividly described and Cutler is an engaging character, often torn between his duty and his sympathy for those struggling to make ends meet in an unforgiving world.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
I enjoyed the combination of villainy and domestic life. It was fairly fast paced and kept me interested throughout the book.
The characters and places were vividly described and Cutler is an engaging character, often torn between his duty and his sympathy for those struggling to make ends meet in an unforgiving world.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
May 13, 2026
The second book about Matthew Cutler the constable of Bishopsgate. We follow Matthew as he investigates the case of forgers of coin. Well described action with characters you can believe in, form a very readable story. Matthew has to look to.his soul to decide on some of the issues he is presented with. A great rendering of the period which give a picture of what life would have been like in London at that time. With thanks to the author,Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
John Pilkington is a master of this genre. His ability to recreate the era and the social interactions of the time is second to none. And then there's Cutler ... by far one of my most favorite literary characters. This instalment of his story is as intricate and gripping as the first. It's a story that transports you across time and place and puts you in the thick of the scene.
If you enjoy historical mysteries you really must treat yourself to Pilkington's Matthew Cutler!
If you enjoy historical mysteries you really must treat yourself to Pilkington's Matthew Cutler!
May 18, 2026
It went on and on, pleased to finish it. Not a great book, maybe the next one will be better. I’ll only read it if I am desperate.
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