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Crispin Guest Medieval Noir #10
Season of Blood
A missing Holy Relic. A mysterious and beautiful woman. Two murdered monks: Crispin Guest tackles his most intriguing investigation to date.
1390. Hailes Abbey, Gloucestershire, England. Two monks lie murdered, their Holy Blood relic stolen: a relic that is said to run liquid for the sinless and remain stubbornly dry for the sinner. Unwilling to become involved in a bitter dispute between a country monastery and Westminster Abbey, the disgraced former knight Crispin Guest attempts to return the relic to Hailes where it belongs, but somehow it keeps returning to his hands no matter what.
As he tries to shield a former nemesis from a charge of murder while becoming entangled with a mysterious and beautiful woman caught between Church politics and the dangerous intrigues of King Richard?s court, Crispin begins to suspect that someone at Westminster is conspiring with the assassins. Can the Blood of Christ point to the killer?
1390. Hailes Abbey, Gloucestershire, England. Two monks lie murdered, their Holy Blood relic stolen: a relic that is said to run liquid for the sinless and remain stubbornly dry for the sinner. Unwilling to become involved in a bitter dispute between a country monastery and Westminster Abbey, the disgraced former knight Crispin Guest attempts to return the relic to Hailes where it belongs, but somehow it keeps returning to his hands no matter what.
As he tries to shield a former nemesis from a charge of murder while becoming entangled with a mysterious and beautiful woman caught between Church politics and the dangerous intrigues of King Richard?s court, Crispin begins to suspect that someone at Westminster is conspiring with the assassins. Can the Blood of Christ point to the killer?
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 24, 2017
30 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
About the author
Jeri Westerson
51 books430 followersLos Angeles native JERI WESTERSON currently writes two new series: a Tudor mystery series, the King’s Fool Mysteries, with Henry VIII’s real court jester Will Somers as the sleuth and a Sherlockian pastiche series called An Irregular Detective Mystery, with one of Holmes’ former Baker Street Irregulars opening his own detective agency. She’s also written fifteen Crispin Guest Medieval Noir Mysteries, a series nominated for thirteen awards from the Agatha, to the Macavity, to the Shamus. She’s written several paranormal series (including a gaslamp-steampunk fantasy series), standalone historical novels, and had stories in several anthologies, the latest of which was included in SOUTH CENTRAL NOIR, an Akashic Noir anthology. She has served as president of the SoCal Chapter of Mystery Writers of America, president and vice president for two chapters of Sisters in Crime (Orange County and Los Angeles), and is also a founding member of the SoCal chapter of the Historical Novel Society. See JeriWesterson.com for discussion guides, book trailers, and more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 13, 2025
As always, I love Crispin and his friends, and after finishing reading I miss them all, but I have to admit that this book was a little less engaging than the previous ones in the series.
That's why I gave it 3.8 stars rounded up to 4, while Crispin usually gets me a full 5 stars.
What I most appreciated about this tenth book in the Crispin Guest series was Crispin's near-falling in love, , and the investigative collaboration of a recurring character in the books, whom I adore and who is a longtime friend of our hero.
But let's start with THE SYNOPSIS:
1390, London.
Crispin is finally enjoying his new, more spacious and comfortable home when a beautiful and mysterious woman comes to visit him, demanding that he find none other than former sheriff (and frequent troublemaker for Crispin) Simon Wynchecombe, accusing him of kidnapping and theft.
Just then, a monk appears on Crispin's doorstep, stabbed to death with Simon's knife in the back, and in his hands an important relic: a crystal containing the blood of Jesus.
Something doesn't add up in the woman's statements, and Crispin struggles to believe that, as arrogant and hateful as Wynchecombe was, he is also a murderer.
The investigation begins with the help of the faithful Jack. The leads are ambiguous and confusing, and Crispin needs more eyes. Also involved in the case are their dear friend John/Eleanor Rykener, a young lawyer (known from the previous book and now Crispin and Jack's landlord) and another old acquaintance, the cunning and slimy crook Lenny.
_________________________
MY OPINION:
As you can see, the plot is intriguing, and I really enjoyed the cast of characters, both old and new.
Each familiar character in the series evolves book after book, and it's wonderful to follow not only their personal development, but also how their bonds evolve, how old friendships are strengthened and renewed, and how new friendships and loves are born.
MAIN CHARACTERS___
- Crispin Guest, a former knight accused of treason who survived the death penalty thanks to the intervention of the 1st Duke of Lancaster.
For years, he has earned his living as "the Tracker," tracking down missing persons, culprits, and criminals of all sorts.
The years pass, his life has finally taken a turn for the better, but certain mistakes are inexorably repeated: he can't resist the allure of a beautiful woman, and despite sensing her danger, he always gives in to the body's temptation, finding then himself in ambiguous and tangled situations.
One can't help but sympathize with him, because his heart is pure, and in order to ensure truth and justice triumph, he always sacrifices his own personal gain.
Crispin once again proves himself not only bold and determined, but also sensitive and capable of grasping the nuances of other people's souls.
I fell in love with him from the first book, and seeing him almost happily in love and reciprocated made me satisfied.
Unfortunately, the author puts obstacles in his personal path every time, and I'm under no illusions, but for once, at least, the ending of the love affair wasn't so bitter. I liked it!
- Jack Tucker, the young and faithful apprentice, is no longer a child, and after getting engaged in the previous book, he's found new ways to scold his master when he sees him derailed by drinking too much or being seduced by the charms of some beautiful woman.
But no one dares speak ill of Crispin; Jack is faithful to the death, and now that he's 18 and taller than Simon Wynchecombe, he doesn't hesitate to put himself physically on the line to defend the one to whom he owes everything.
It was difficult for me to accept Jack's character as he grew up in the last two books. I was very fond of that little boy with disheveled red hair, a puppy with a difficult past, who, despite his fears, showed all his determination to help Crispin. Jack has always been a wise child, who knew how to care for an adult who was sometimes out of control. Now as an adult he continues to do so, but since there is no longer only Crispin in his life, but also his future wife...well...everything becomes more complicated and I make no secret of the fact that engaged Jack is not my favorite Jack.
SIDE CHARACTERS___
-John/Eleonor Rykener, my favorite of the series' recurring characters.
John is a real historical figure, known only through historical documents from a trial, who used to earn his living as an embroiderer by day and a prostitute by night, disguised as a woman.
The author invented his personal traits, giving him a cheerful, affectionate, sociable, and loyal personality toward those close to him.
We meet John/Eleonor both dressed as a man and as a woman, alternating between fisticuffs and fluttering eyelashes in a soothing voice.
He is smart and intuitive, but also has a heart of gold and is capable of great humility and empathy towards others.
Crispin's affectionate attitude toward him often makes me laugh, in fact he respects his friend, accepts his nature, but at the same time is annoyed when J./E. overdoes his feminine behaviour, ranging from playful advances to offended sulks.
Their friendship endures because there is mutual respect, without presumptuous judgments on either side. It is thanks to their friendship that others also learn to appreciate Rykener's heart and personality.
- Nigellus Cobmartin is a very young but capable lawyer, first encountered in the previous book. He's rented Crispin a larger apartment, but above all, he acts like a good new friend.
His clever intuitions and logical reasoning are a great help in the investigations, and combined with his kind nature and appropriate Latin quotations, he's a great character.
From the very first moment, Nigellus shows no prejudice towards John/Eleonor, with whom he forms a good investigative partnership and friendship.
I hope we'll see him positively involved in Crispin's cases in the future.
- Lenny, the earless thug with greasy hair and dirty, smelly clothes... a shady character, but useful to Crispin from time to time.
His presence may seem unnecessary, but actually, he serves to counterbalance the positivity of the good characters and adds a little spice to discussions about the investigations.
- Among other minor but recurring characters, we find the new Abbot of Westminster and one of Crispin's old monk friends.
- Simon Wynchecombe remains true to himself: the usual ungrateful asshole, but at least this time it's our hero who holds the proverbial "handle"! Such a great satisfaction!
- Catherine...the mystery woman... I don't want to say anything about her, every word could be too much and would ruin the pleasure of the book.
---> There's no real VILLAIN; this time, evil hides beneath the sentiments of lust and greed, which in turn strikes down the weak of character and those far from pure of heart.
___ THE HISTORICAL CONNECTION: The blood of Jesus.
These are two holy relics that actually existed, then were stolen and destroyed during the vicissitudes of history.
I had never heard of them, and I enjoyed discovering how they arrived in England and how they were then stolen and destroyed.
Mrs. Westerson discusses them in an interesting and comprehensive way in the historical notes, which I always find so precious and which you will find at the end of the book.
__ THE BOOK'S ONLY FLAW, which however partially detracted from my engagement and enjoyment of the book, is that this story, unlike all the previous ones, lacks action.
Tight fights, daring escapes, pathos, and desperate rescues, all at a fast pace, greatly contributed to my passion for the series, while this story remains on a smoother level and lacks that heart-pounding excitement that catapults the reader into the scene as if they were experiencing it firsthand.
Of course it's a matter of personal taste, in fact you'll find another review that starts with the sentence : " Crispin at his best", while for me it was quite the opposite.
So, while I highly recommend this series, even though each book is perfectly readable as a standalone, please start with book 1 and never, ever start with this one.
It still remains my all-time favorite series of the last 3 years and Crispin remains my medieval crush.
Thanks for reading my opinion and sorry for any errors you'll find in my text. English isn't my native language.
That's why I gave it 3.8 stars rounded up to 4, while Crispin usually gets me a full 5 stars.
What I most appreciated about this tenth book in the Crispin Guest series was Crispin's near-falling in love, , and the investigative collaboration of a recurring character in the books, whom I adore and who is a longtime friend of our hero.
But let's start with THE SYNOPSIS:
1390, London.
Crispin is finally enjoying his new, more spacious and comfortable home when a beautiful and mysterious woman comes to visit him, demanding that he find none other than former sheriff (and frequent troublemaker for Crispin) Simon Wynchecombe, accusing him of kidnapping and theft.
Just then, a monk appears on Crispin's doorstep, stabbed to death with Simon's knife in the back, and in his hands an important relic: a crystal containing the blood of Jesus.
Something doesn't add up in the woman's statements, and Crispin struggles to believe that, as arrogant and hateful as Wynchecombe was, he is also a murderer.
The investigation begins with the help of the faithful Jack. The leads are ambiguous and confusing, and Crispin needs more eyes. Also involved in the case are their dear friend John/Eleanor Rykener, a young lawyer (known from the previous book and now Crispin and Jack's landlord) and another old acquaintance, the cunning and slimy crook Lenny.
_________________________
MY OPINION:
As you can see, the plot is intriguing, and I really enjoyed the cast of characters, both old and new.
Each familiar character in the series evolves book after book, and it's wonderful to follow not only their personal development, but also how their bonds evolve, how old friendships are strengthened and renewed, and how new friendships and loves are born.
MAIN CHARACTERS___
- Crispin Guest, a former knight accused of treason who survived the death penalty thanks to the intervention of the 1st Duke of Lancaster.
For years, he has earned his living as "the Tracker," tracking down missing persons, culprits, and criminals of all sorts.
The years pass, his life has finally taken a turn for the better, but certain mistakes are inexorably repeated: he can't resist the allure of a beautiful woman, and despite sensing her danger, he always gives in to the body's temptation, finding then himself in ambiguous and tangled situations.
One can't help but sympathize with him, because his heart is pure, and in order to ensure truth and justice triumph, he always sacrifices his own personal gain.
Crispin once again proves himself not only bold and determined, but also sensitive and capable of grasping the nuances of other people's souls.
I fell in love with him from the first book, and seeing him almost happily in love and reciprocated made me satisfied.
Unfortunately, the author puts obstacles in his personal path every time, and I'm under no illusions, but for once, at least, the ending of the love affair wasn't so bitter. I liked it!
- Jack Tucker, the young and faithful apprentice, is no longer a child, and after getting engaged in the previous book, he's found new ways to scold his master when he sees him derailed by drinking too much or being seduced by the charms of some beautiful woman.
But no one dares speak ill of Crispin; Jack is faithful to the death, and now that he's 18 and taller than Simon Wynchecombe, he doesn't hesitate to put himself physically on the line to defend the one to whom he owes everything.
It was difficult for me to accept Jack's character as he grew up in the last two books. I was very fond of that little boy with disheveled red hair, a puppy with a difficult past, who, despite his fears, showed all his determination to help Crispin. Jack has always been a wise child, who knew how to care for an adult who was sometimes out of control. Now as an adult he continues to do so, but since there is no longer only Crispin in his life, but also his future wife...well...everything becomes more complicated and I make no secret of the fact that engaged Jack is not my favorite Jack.
SIDE CHARACTERS___
-John/Eleonor Rykener, my favorite of the series' recurring characters.
John is a real historical figure, known only through historical documents from a trial, who used to earn his living as an embroiderer by day and a prostitute by night, disguised as a woman.
The author invented his personal traits, giving him a cheerful, affectionate, sociable, and loyal personality toward those close to him.
We meet John/Eleonor both dressed as a man and as a woman, alternating between fisticuffs and fluttering eyelashes in a soothing voice.
He is smart and intuitive, but also has a heart of gold and is capable of great humility and empathy towards others.
Crispin's affectionate attitude toward him often makes me laugh, in fact he respects his friend, accepts his nature, but at the same time is annoyed when J./E. overdoes his feminine behaviour, ranging from playful advances to offended sulks.
Their friendship endures because there is mutual respect, without presumptuous judgments on either side. It is thanks to their friendship that others also learn to appreciate Rykener's heart and personality.
- Nigellus Cobmartin is a very young but capable lawyer, first encountered in the previous book. He's rented Crispin a larger apartment, but above all, he acts like a good new friend.
His clever intuitions and logical reasoning are a great help in the investigations, and combined with his kind nature and appropriate Latin quotations, he's a great character.
From the very first moment, Nigellus shows no prejudice towards John/Eleonor, with whom he forms a good investigative partnership and friendship.
I hope we'll see him positively involved in Crispin's cases in the future.
- Lenny, the earless thug with greasy hair and dirty, smelly clothes... a shady character, but useful to Crispin from time to time.
His presence may seem unnecessary, but actually, he serves to counterbalance the positivity of the good characters and adds a little spice to discussions about the investigations.
- Among other minor but recurring characters, we find the new Abbot of Westminster and one of Crispin's old monk friends.
- Simon Wynchecombe remains true to himself: the usual ungrateful asshole, but at least this time it's our hero who holds the proverbial "handle"! Such a great satisfaction!
- Catherine...the mystery woman... I don't want to say anything about her, every word could be too much and would ruin the pleasure of the book.
---> There's no real VILLAIN; this time, evil hides beneath the sentiments of lust and greed, which in turn strikes down the weak of character and those far from pure of heart.
___ THE HISTORICAL CONNECTION: The blood of Jesus.
These are two holy relics that actually existed, then were stolen and destroyed during the vicissitudes of history.
I had never heard of them, and I enjoyed discovering how they arrived in England and how they were then stolen and destroyed.
Mrs. Westerson discusses them in an interesting and comprehensive way in the historical notes, which I always find so precious and which you will find at the end of the book.
__ THE BOOK'S ONLY FLAW, which however partially detracted from my engagement and enjoyment of the book, is that this story, unlike all the previous ones, lacks action.
Tight fights, daring escapes, pathos, and desperate rescues, all at a fast pace, greatly contributed to my passion for the series, while this story remains on a smoother level and lacks that heart-pounding excitement that catapults the reader into the scene as if they were experiencing it firsthand.
Of course it's a matter of personal taste, in fact you'll find another review that starts with the sentence : " Crispin at his best", while for me it was quite the opposite.
So, while I highly recommend this series, even though each book is perfectly readable as a standalone, please start with book 1 and never, ever start with this one.
It still remains my all-time favorite series of the last 3 years and Crispin remains my medieval crush.
Thanks for reading my opinion and sorry for any errors you'll find in my text. English isn't my native language.
December 30, 2017
Continuing my run of authors new to me. I enjoyed this one. There are lots of twists and turns and it's nice to read crime novels where the detective (or rather Trapper as in here) relies on brain and wit rather than technology.
As much as I did like it and it's an easy enough to read, it didn't grab my attention enough to read all in one go. I did leave it halfway through to read 2 other books. And there were maybe one or two many twists. I lost track at the end of all the people who had ended up doing something wrong.
But I liked the relationship between Crispin and his apprentice Jack. I was intrigued by John and his alter ego Eleanor - not something you tend to see in more medieval books. When I did pick the book back up again I found it easy to get back into. It works well as a stand alone book having not read the others in the series. Overall a enjoyable book
Free arc from netgalley
As much as I did like it and it's an easy enough to read, it didn't grab my attention enough to read all in one go. I did leave it halfway through to read 2 other books. And there were maybe one or two many twists. I lost track at the end of all the people who had ended up doing something wrong.
But I liked the relationship between Crispin and his apprentice Jack. I was intrigued by John and his alter ego Eleanor - not something you tend to see in more medieval books. When I did pick the book back up again I found it easy to get back into. It works well as a stand alone book having not read the others in the series. Overall a enjoyable book
Free arc from netgalley
January 12, 2018
This is my first visit with this author and I read this book as a stand alone. It is set in 1390 and we are introduced to Crispin Guest and his apprentice and side kick Jack Tucker. They have been approached by a mysterious lady for their help in finding her niece. But along with that a monk dies on Crispin’s door step and in his possession is a religious Blood Relic artefact.
This is the 10th instalment in the Crispin Guest mystery series. As this is the first I had read by this author, I was intrigued as to how well I would get on with an established series. For me, I am pleased to say, it worked very well, there are hints and mentions of past stories but not enough to detract from this one. This book has a very good “well researched” feel to it. It is one of those books that feel right for the time it is set in and Jeri has some great description to back that feel up. It is a well paced story that has some very unexpected twists, it is one of those books that you are never quite sure who is telling the truth, creating a good edginess to it. The characters are quick to remember and identify as they are introduced gradually.
Overall this was a very enjoyable read, and I think a good introduction for me to this author, even though I have started at the wrong end of the series. I would recommend this to readers who like a good medieval murder, mystery read. Some good twists, plots and characters. It has been well researched and written.
This is the 10th instalment in the Crispin Guest mystery series. As this is the first I had read by this author, I was intrigued as to how well I would get on with an established series. For me, I am pleased to say, it worked very well, there are hints and mentions of past stories but not enough to detract from this one. This book has a very good “well researched” feel to it. It is one of those books that feel right for the time it is set in and Jeri has some great description to back that feel up. It is a well paced story that has some very unexpected twists, it is one of those books that you are never quite sure who is telling the truth, creating a good edginess to it. The characters are quick to remember and identify as they are introduced gradually.
Overall this was a very enjoyable read, and I think a good introduction for me to this author, even though I have started at the wrong end of the series. I would recommend this to readers who like a good medieval murder, mystery read. Some good twists, plots and characters. It has been well researched and written.
September 30, 2017
Whenever one of Ms. Westerson's Crispin books hits my Kindle or my hands, all other books go to the 'hold' list until I finish it. Her books are well researched. They are set in medieval times, which I find to be a fascinating period, and they are intelligent. Her descriptions make me feel like I am right there in the story. There are some interesting twists presented to Crispin and Jack in this 10th Crispin book. The female character is also quite interesting. You won't want to miss this one! Or any of the others, for that matter.
January 23, 2023
A mysterious woman ostensibly in search of her niece and a monk carrying a precious relic dying on Crispin's doorstep - both of these seemingly unrelated events keep Crispin and his associates busy in this installment.
Entertaining as ever, though the lady (and everyone's idiocy where she was concerned) got on my nerves a bit.
Entertaining as ever, though the lady (and everyone's idiocy where she was concerned) got on my nerves a bit.
January 17, 2024
Great plot but the writing was a bit sloppy. There were several inconsistencies.
November 17, 2017
It was fabulous to receive Jeri Westerson’s Season of Blood, a Crispin Guest medieval mystery,#10. I could not open the box fast enough & I began reading it immediately & read it right through to the end. The author describes medieval London so thoroughly. I loved reading about Crispin and his apprentice, Jack Tucker again. Jack is now 18 and has been educated by Crispin as well as taught by Crispin how to become The Tracker someday. Jack also watches out for Crispin and is Crispin’s closest friend. Another religious relic has entered Crispin’s new digs, but so has a dead monk. It begins again, but Crispin and Jack seem more like partners in this tale. They also ride to Hailes Abbey which is a few days outside of London. Jack cannot see enough as he travels with Crispin to the Abbey. Another previous character shows up which adds more difficulties & then there is that woman! 41/4 stars. So enjoyable! Cannot get the next book, The Deepest Grave #11, quickly enough!
October 17, 2017
This is the first historical fiction novel I've read in a while. I previously read and really enjoyed Simon Scarrow's books set in the times of the Roman empire, and also enjoy fantasy novels, so was keen to see how this stacked up. In short, I'll be reading the other books featuring Crispin Guest.
Jeri Westerson leads you around medieval (1390) London on a thrilling murder mystery romp. She paints an incredibly vivid picture of the city (or rather cities) of the time, including a short glossary at the start, and some historical notes at the end. A mysterious woman hires Crispin (a former knight, falled on hard times as a detective) to track down her niece. What should have been a straightforward missing person case turns into an increasing number of murders, and the theft of a priceless holy relic.
This was a really engaging book, and well worth the time spent reading it.
Jeri Westerson leads you around medieval (1390) London on a thrilling murder mystery romp. She paints an incredibly vivid picture of the city (or rather cities) of the time, including a short glossary at the start, and some historical notes at the end. A mysterious woman hires Crispin (a former knight, falled on hard times as a detective) to track down her niece. What should have been a straightforward missing person case turns into an increasing number of murders, and the theft of a priceless holy relic.
This was a really engaging book, and well worth the time spent reading it.
April 25, 2019
I admit to not having read all in the series, so have missed a few in the chronology. Having said that i do enjoy a bit of "medieval noir" with our anti-hero, Crispin Guest. Throw in a a murder or two, a holy relic, plots twists, and a storyline like a dog's hind leg, and you have an entertaining read!
August 29, 2024
Another relic, another murder. Or in this case, competing relics and several murders, including the killing of several monks. You might think that a woman wouldn’t be at the heart of such a mystery, but you’d be wrong. In addition, an old frenemy returns, Simon Wynchcombe; this time it’s he who begs Simon for help to save his life.
As always, I enjoyed the historical afterword by the author.
As always, I enjoyed the historical afterword by the author.
January 21, 2018
Originally published at Reading Reality
Season of Blood follows last year’s A Maiden Weeping, and Crispin seems to have learned very little from all the trouble he got into during that case.
A man dies on his doorstep with a knife in his back. In Crispin’s down-at-heels section of London, that actually might not be all that uncommon an occurrence. But the dead man in this particular case is a monk. And in addition to his corpse, he leaves Crispin with two big problems.
That knife in the monk’s back clearly bears the seal of Simon Wynchecombe, former Sheriff, current Alderman, and always a thorn in Crispin’s side. Simon hated Crispin while he was Sheriff, and beat and belittled him at every turn, including when he needed Crispin to resolve a case.
The second problem presented by the corpse is that he has a religious relic in his possession. Crispin has been involved with relics before. He doesn’t trust them or the people who traffic in them. But the damnable things keep invading his life, and that never ends well for him.
On the heels of the corpse, a woman hires Crispin to find her errant niece, who seems to have run off with a married man – that married man being the same Simon Wynchecombe whose knife was in the dead man’s back.
This all should scream “unlikely coincidence” to Crispin the expert tracker, but something about this woman has Crispin doing most of his thinking with his little head instead of his big one. Not that that hasn’t happened before, too. Crispin can never resist a pretty face, especially when there’s a clever brain behind it.
So Crispin, as usual, finds himself investigating a case where he trusts that no one is telling the truth. He is forced to rely on his own wits to determine who killed the first monk (and eventually the second and the third) without having anything like 21st century forensic science. Only his own knowledge of how things work and how people behave – even if his wits are a bit addled by the beautiful woman who seems to be at the center of this spider’s web of a case.
And just because he doesn’t believe in the truth of the relic, doesn’t mean that others are not willing to kill for them. Or that just because so many of the people involved with this case are celibate monks, does not mean that there are not men under those robes, just as fascinated by a pretty face as he himself is. Possibly even the same pretty face.
The chance to solve this conundrum tests Crispin at every turn. But the unexpected chance to score against an enemy – PRICELESS.
Escape Rating B+: A part of me wants to say that this was fun, in spite of the dead bodies falling at every turn. This case is interesting because it is so foreign. The past is definitely another country in this one.
Crispin is skeptical about the truth and the efficacy of those much venerated relics. His attitude is in some ways almost modern, and in others fits within his time. He’s not sure they are real, but if they are, we don’t deserve them. And it’s not for him to judge their religiosity, only to follow the trail of death and end it – no matter the cost.
But this is a case where trying to follow “who benefits?” is difficult because the benefits don’t seem based in our reality – even though they are in theirs.
As always, Crispin is a fascinating character. Once upon a time, he was a nobleman, who lost his station and his fortune by backing the wrong claimant in one of the early skirmishes of what became later known as the “Wars of the Roses”. He should have been killed for his treason, but instead he was reduced severely in station.
He should have died of his ignorance, but instead was helped and taught until he could manage to make his own living as the infamous “Tracker” who solves problems for a fee and shows up the Sheriffs at every turn. He has seen life from both the heights and the depths, but is a stranger in both and at home in neither.
He’s also in his mid-30s and starting to feel that he is no longer young. At the same time he has no idea of if or how to “settle down”. He does have a knack for gathering interesting people around him who both help and support him. A group that gets more interesting all the time, particularly in this outing.
If you like historical mysteries where you really feel (and occasionally taste and smell) just how different the past is from our own present, Crispin Guest is a master at bringing his world to life – and solving its suspicious deaths.
Season of Blood follows last year’s A Maiden Weeping, and Crispin seems to have learned very little from all the trouble he got into during that case.
A man dies on his doorstep with a knife in his back. In Crispin’s down-at-heels section of London, that actually might not be all that uncommon an occurrence. But the dead man in this particular case is a monk. And in addition to his corpse, he leaves Crispin with two big problems.
That knife in the monk’s back clearly bears the seal of Simon Wynchecombe, former Sheriff, current Alderman, and always a thorn in Crispin’s side. Simon hated Crispin while he was Sheriff, and beat and belittled him at every turn, including when he needed Crispin to resolve a case.
The second problem presented by the corpse is that he has a religious relic in his possession. Crispin has been involved with relics before. He doesn’t trust them or the people who traffic in them. But the damnable things keep invading his life, and that never ends well for him.
On the heels of the corpse, a woman hires Crispin to find her errant niece, who seems to have run off with a married man – that married man being the same Simon Wynchecombe whose knife was in the dead man’s back.
This all should scream “unlikely coincidence” to Crispin the expert tracker, but something about this woman has Crispin doing most of his thinking with his little head instead of his big one. Not that that hasn’t happened before, too. Crispin can never resist a pretty face, especially when there’s a clever brain behind it.
So Crispin, as usual, finds himself investigating a case where he trusts that no one is telling the truth. He is forced to rely on his own wits to determine who killed the first monk (and eventually the second and the third) without having anything like 21st century forensic science. Only his own knowledge of how things work and how people behave – even if his wits are a bit addled by the beautiful woman who seems to be at the center of this spider’s web of a case.
And just because he doesn’t believe in the truth of the relic, doesn’t mean that others are not willing to kill for them. Or that just because so many of the people involved with this case are celibate monks, does not mean that there are not men under those robes, just as fascinated by a pretty face as he himself is. Possibly even the same pretty face.
The chance to solve this conundrum tests Crispin at every turn. But the unexpected chance to score against an enemy – PRICELESS.
Escape Rating B+: A part of me wants to say that this was fun, in spite of the dead bodies falling at every turn. This case is interesting because it is so foreign. The past is definitely another country in this one.
Crispin is skeptical about the truth and the efficacy of those much venerated relics. His attitude is in some ways almost modern, and in others fits within his time. He’s not sure they are real, but if they are, we don’t deserve them. And it’s not for him to judge their religiosity, only to follow the trail of death and end it – no matter the cost.
But this is a case where trying to follow “who benefits?” is difficult because the benefits don’t seem based in our reality – even though they are in theirs.
As always, Crispin is a fascinating character. Once upon a time, he was a nobleman, who lost his station and his fortune by backing the wrong claimant in one of the early skirmishes of what became later known as the “Wars of the Roses”. He should have been killed for his treason, but instead he was reduced severely in station.
He should have died of his ignorance, but instead was helped and taught until he could manage to make his own living as the infamous “Tracker” who solves problems for a fee and shows up the Sheriffs at every turn. He has seen life from both the heights and the depths, but is a stranger in both and at home in neither.
He’s also in his mid-30s and starting to feel that he is no longer young. At the same time he has no idea of if or how to “settle down”. He does have a knack for gathering interesting people around him who both help and support him. A group that gets more interesting all the time, particularly in this outing.
If you like historical mysteries where you really feel (and occasionally taste and smell) just how different the past is from our own present, Crispin Guest is a master at bringing his world to life – and solving its suspicious deaths.
October 2, 2017
Crispin Guest an honored knight who has fallen from grace by an act of treason against the King has been hired as a "Tracker" to find a young women's niece from a former Sheriff whom Crispin is quite familiar with from past experiences. Cistercian monks, murderers, thieves, politicians, coppers, a damsel in distress plus some of London's colorful street dwellers act as faithful friends and consultants to Mr. Guests in his quest to solve the mystery of the Holy relic of Hailes and the death of several monks. The characters were fun, but I would have liked to read more on some of their past adventures that were hinted at but never enlighted upon within the pages of this book.
February 13, 2018
Official HNS review here: https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...
Medieval mysteries is a genre that is flooded with many similar stories, characters that often blend into one another, and settings that are sometimes indistinguishable from one series to the next. It is a genre in which novels can be easily lost in sameness. However, that never seems to happen with Jeri Westerson’s medieval noir novels. Season of Blood, the 10th in the Crispin Guest series, remains as fun and intriguing as the first. In this instalment, Crispin finds himself embroiled in solving the murder of not one but two Cistercian monks, finding the missing niece of an alluring lady, and at the crux of it all is a holy relic containing the blood of Christ, which flows only for the pure of heart.
Crispin is hired by a lady, Catherine Whitechurch, to find her niece who has been seduced by a married man. The married man is none other than Crispin’s old nemesis, the former sheriff Simon Wynchcombe. No sooner had Catherine paid her initial fee than a Cicertian monk shows up at Crispin’s door and drops dead, Wynchcombe’s dagger between his shoulderblades and a stolen monstrance containing the flowing blood of Christ in his hands. Crispin and his apprentice, Jack Tucker, take off to solve the crime, find Wynchcombe and the missing young woman, and return the relic to its rightful place. The result is a fun and exciting romp through the streets of medieval London. Longtime readers of the series should be delighted with the return of Wynchcombe as well as the beloved characters of John Rykener (a historical cross dressing prostitute) and Nigellus Cobmartin, lawyer extraordinaire. I was personally thrilled with...well, I won’t spoil it. But there was a minor plot point that happened that had me grinning from ear to ear. All in all, this is another excellent addition to both the Crispin Guest series and to the canon of medieval mysteries overall. Highly recommended.
Medieval mysteries is a genre that is flooded with many similar stories, characters that often blend into one another, and settings that are sometimes indistinguishable from one series to the next. It is a genre in which novels can be easily lost in sameness. However, that never seems to happen with Jeri Westerson’s medieval noir novels. Season of Blood, the 10th in the Crispin Guest series, remains as fun and intriguing as the first. In this instalment, Crispin finds himself embroiled in solving the murder of not one but two Cistercian monks, finding the missing niece of an alluring lady, and at the crux of it all is a holy relic containing the blood of Christ, which flows only for the pure of heart.
Crispin is hired by a lady, Catherine Whitechurch, to find her niece who has been seduced by a married man. The married man is none other than Crispin’s old nemesis, the former sheriff Simon Wynchcombe. No sooner had Catherine paid her initial fee than a Cicertian monk shows up at Crispin’s door and drops dead, Wynchcombe’s dagger between his shoulderblades and a stolen monstrance containing the flowing blood of Christ in his hands. Crispin and his apprentice, Jack Tucker, take off to solve the crime, find Wynchcombe and the missing young woman, and return the relic to its rightful place. The result is a fun and exciting romp through the streets of medieval London. Longtime readers of the series should be delighted with the return of Wynchcombe as well as the beloved characters of John Rykener (a historical cross dressing prostitute) and Nigellus Cobmartin, lawyer extraordinaire. I was personally thrilled with...well, I won’t spoil it. But there was a minor plot point that happened that had me grinning from ear to ear. All in all, this is another excellent addition to both the Crispin Guest series and to the canon of medieval mysteries overall. Highly recommended.
January 4, 2018
Crispin at his best!
Once again, The Tracker, Crispin Guest is dogged by a mysterious holy relic. This time 'the Holy Blood of Hailes.' A Ciscurcian monk arrives at Crispin's door with a dagger in his back, and a holy relic in his hand! And that's not all, Crispin recognizes the dagger. And so it begins.
Why is it that these mysteries gravitate towards him? At one stage Crispin grimly ponders that, 'Nothing good ever came from association with relics, at least not for him. It was damnable how they kept turning up at his door.' As does a dead White monk of the Cistercian order just to add spice and intrigue. There seems to be a veritable plague of monks imbedded in this Tracker episode.
And let's not forget the last words of Crispin's friend Abbot Nicholas, ' ‘Forget what you think you know … Beware of what you find …’ ' words that haunt Crispin more than the relics. What will Crispin find and what is he really searching for? This is our ongoing exploration of Crispin, his strengths and failings, his personhood.
Jack Tucker is back, now a betrothed young man whose words of wisdom have occasion to bring Crispin up short. John Rykener appears (one of my favorite characters) and, most unexpectedly, the ex sheriff of London, no friend to Crispin, Simon Wynchecombe turns to the Tracker for help.
On top of this a rather mysterious woman enters Crispin's life and turns it upside down.
Another enthralling read. I continue to enjoy the interplay between Crispin and Jack Tucker. I love their verbal sparring, spiced with references to Aristotle and much grumbling from Jack. As always, Westerson's prose brings the streets of 1390's London vividly to life.
A NetGalley ARC
Once again, The Tracker, Crispin Guest is dogged by a mysterious holy relic. This time 'the Holy Blood of Hailes.' A Ciscurcian monk arrives at Crispin's door with a dagger in his back, and a holy relic in his hand! And that's not all, Crispin recognizes the dagger. And so it begins.
Why is it that these mysteries gravitate towards him? At one stage Crispin grimly ponders that, 'Nothing good ever came from association with relics, at least not for him. It was damnable how they kept turning up at his door.' As does a dead White monk of the Cistercian order just to add spice and intrigue. There seems to be a veritable plague of monks imbedded in this Tracker episode.
And let's not forget the last words of Crispin's friend Abbot Nicholas, ' ‘Forget what you think you know … Beware of what you find …’ ' words that haunt Crispin more than the relics. What will Crispin find and what is he really searching for? This is our ongoing exploration of Crispin, his strengths and failings, his personhood.
Jack Tucker is back, now a betrothed young man whose words of wisdom have occasion to bring Crispin up short. John Rykener appears (one of my favorite characters) and, most unexpectedly, the ex sheriff of London, no friend to Crispin, Simon Wynchecombe turns to the Tracker for help.
On top of this a rather mysterious woman enters Crispin's life and turns it upside down.
Another enthralling read. I continue to enjoy the interplay between Crispin and Jack Tucker. I love their verbal sparring, spiced with references to Aristotle and much grumbling from Jack. As always, Westerson's prose brings the streets of 1390's London vividly to life.
A NetGalley ARC
September 14, 2017
Season of Blood takes the reader on another adventure with Crispin Guest as he investigates murdered monks and stolen relics. I've enjoyed several of these Crispin Guest novels and enjoy the setting during Richard II's reign. Crispin is a disgraced knight who has earned a reputation as an investigator and finder of lost objects. He has become known as the Tracker.
A beautiful and mysterious woman sets this mystery in motion. She approaches Crispin, asking for his aid in finding her niece. Things are not what they seem, however, and when a monk falls into his door with Crispin's old rival Simon Wynchecombe's dagger in his back and a blood relic in his hand, events take a perilous direction.
Crispin has a skeptical approach to relics, but this one seems unlike the usual fakes. Religious institutions were often competitive about relics because relics were a source of pilgrims and income, but blood relics containing the blood of Christ were particularly desirable.
Crispin's attempts to return the relic are thwarted because the relic keeps returning to him.
Read in September; review scheduled for Dec. 21.
Goodreads/Severn House
Historical Mystery. Jan. 1, 2017. Print length: 224 pages.
A beautiful and mysterious woman sets this mystery in motion. She approaches Crispin, asking for his aid in finding her niece. Things are not what they seem, however, and when a monk falls into his door with Crispin's old rival Simon Wynchecombe's dagger in his back and a blood relic in his hand, events take a perilous direction.
Crispin has a skeptical approach to relics, but this one seems unlike the usual fakes. Religious institutions were often competitive about relics because relics were a source of pilgrims and income, but blood relics containing the blood of Christ were particularly desirable.
Crispin's attempts to return the relic are thwarted because the relic keeps returning to him.
Read in September; review scheduled for Dec. 21.
Goodreads/Severn House
Historical Mystery. Jan. 1, 2017. Print length: 224 pages.
January 14, 2018
I eagerly await each new book in this series and this newest book did not disappoint. I love a good mystery, and I love a good flawed anti-hero. Crispin is a disgraced knight, turned tracker. He finds things, people, and information. His apprentice is a former thief named Jack. Crispin may be a disgraced knight but he certainly is the heart of these stories, and he is very good at what he does.
This story, like the rest, revolves around a religious relic. In this case, a blood relic. The story is always well written and paced. There is plenty of action and the characters all merge well. One of the things I love about the author's writing is how well she brings them alive on the page. Rather than rely on too much dialogue, she mixes dialogue with actions, and little things like how they interact with each other, and their actions, tell us as much about them as what they say. The characters continue to evolve and grow, and not just Crispin and Jack. Each books brings more growth, which keeps the characters from feeling too familiar and static, and we see a little more of some of the other characters, like the lawyer and John (who I absolutely love in the books).
These are mysteries that are engaging, fun and full of action.
This story, like the rest, revolves around a religious relic. In this case, a blood relic. The story is always well written and paced. There is plenty of action and the characters all merge well. One of the things I love about the author's writing is how well she brings them alive on the page. Rather than rely on too much dialogue, she mixes dialogue with actions, and little things like how they interact with each other, and their actions, tell us as much about them as what they say. The characters continue to evolve and grow, and not just Crispin and Jack. Each books brings more growth, which keeps the characters from feeling too familiar and static, and we see a little more of some of the other characters, like the lawyer and John (who I absolutely love in the books).
These are mysteries that are engaging, fun and full of action.
June 22, 2020
London 1390. Jack Tucker was now 18 years old and betrothed to Isabel Langton, the childless Gilbert's niece and heir. God's Blood! may be both Trackers' favourite exclamation but it also was literally the relic that was involved in this very Entertaining work... and in the midst of all the dead monks was a Wanton Woman who seduced them... Guest's old Adversary was one (not a monk but a former Sheriff) of her victims the rest were monks. She even had caused one monk to jealously murder his Brother... steal a relic... the other deaths were related to that same unrepentant whore who deceived them all, except for the final death... for that, Crispin Guest had to arrest an old friend.
P.S. ~ Some distortions of the Timeline though:
Chapter 17 ~ that ship has sailed (American)
Chapter 21 ~ let the cat out of the bag (1760)
There are other Americanisms that were perhaps unavoidable since the author is American but these have not in any way Warped the setting too much to negate the Fun in reading Westerson's books otherwise I would not even bother as there are other more important things like her research and the amount of work she puts in her writing that are greatly appreciated by her readers of which I am one.
P.S. ~ Some distortions of the Timeline though:
Chapter 17 ~ that ship has sailed (American)
Chapter 21 ~ let the cat out of the bag (1760)
There are other Americanisms that were perhaps unavoidable since the author is American but these have not in any way Warped the setting too much to negate the Fun in reading Westerson's books otherwise I would not even bother as there are other more important things like her research and the amount of work she puts in her writing that are greatly appreciated by her readers of which I am one.
February 24, 2018
I love this series, and it keeps getting better. Crispin's fortunes have improved a little — he and Jack Tucker now have several rooms instead of just one. On his way home one night, Crispin senses he is being followed, but is surprised to discover the person following him is a woman. She wants to hire him, to find her missing niece, who she believes has been abducted and despoiled by a former sheriff of London, once Crispin's nemesis. But as they are talking a monk stumbles in, seeking Crispin, then expires, with a dagger in his back! A dagger Crispin recognizes as belonging to the former sheriff! And is is only the beginning of a convoluted tale of multiple murders and a stolen relic. But Crispin somehow puts all the pieces together to discover just what must have happened. Excellent! Highly recommended.
December 22, 2017
I had not read the first 9 books in this series but I don't think that hampered my enjoyment a bit of this medieval mystery starring (no other word) Crispin Guest. How fun that a knight has turned detective in 1390 London and that he's trained a young man Jack Tucker to follow in his footsteps (no pun intended!). Lovely well rounded characters, a villain, a missing woman, a relic, and atmospheric details made this a very good read. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. I suspect there's a fan club of the medieval mystery genre and if so, this should definitely on your list. If you haven't delved into this area, try Crispin for lively entertainment.
February 11, 2018
His imprisonment in the previous novel in this series apparently was the final push Crispin needed, to relinquish his unrelenting despair/ envious nostalgia, for the privileged life he had before expulsion for treason. In this book he seems to accept the people he has to deal with, in the class he now is irrevocably part of: and he is, finally, almost fully focussed on the mystery he has to solve...though still blindsided by a pretty face, and sceptical of the “relic” entrusted to his care.
November 15, 2017
1390 London and Crispon Guest is followed home by an unknown female who wishes to employ himto find her niece. Their meeting is disturbed by a monk with a dagger in his back. Holy relics, monks, ex-sheriffs abound but its Guest who must find the guilty parties.
An enjoyable mystery, which I liked but did not love. Not too sure I cared much for some of the characters but I might go back to the start of the series. This can certainly be read as a standalone novel.
A NetGalley Book
An enjoyable mystery, which I liked but did not love. Not too sure I cared much for some of the characters but I might go back to the start of the series. This can certainly be read as a standalone novel.
A NetGalley Book
May 20, 2018
This was the poorest written Crispin Guest books. The "twists" were extremely predictable. Many character actions felt forced by current 21st century behaviors and conflicted with 14th century social mores. The prose lacked precision found in Westerson's other books.
Overall, is you're a fan of the series, it's readable, however not Westerson's strongest piece. I hope this does not signal the end of Westetson's passion for Crispin Guest.
Overall, is you're a fan of the series, it's readable, however not Westerson's strongest piece. I hope this does not signal the end of Westetson's passion for Crispin Guest.
June 30, 2018
I'm not entirely sure why but this Crispin Guest story seemed to lack a certain something that the others had. A bit of his charm or personality seemed muted, almost. John Rykener was back, which was fabulous, and both Jack & Simon get to grow and develop as characters, and maybe that's what the problem was. Everyone else was growing and become deeper, richer, better and Crispin was ... Crispin. The same in ways as before.
February 25, 2019
Another masterful mystery set in the late middle ages. Once again Crispin Guest, Master Tracker, and his apprentice Jack Tucker are on the trail of a relic, missing monks, and a blond woman who cannot tell the truth.
There's action, there's suspense, and there are chases through London and beyond.
If you like Westerson's mysteries, you'll love this one. And yes, relics are definitely attracted to Guest!
There's action, there's suspense, and there are chases through London and beyond.
If you like Westerson's mysteries, you'll love this one. And yes, relics are definitely attracted to Guest!
May 11, 2021
After this many Crispin Guest mysteries what more can you expect than absolute perfection! Love them all! Not to be missed with old friends and new, and an unexpected twist. Crispin and Jack have their work cut out for them this time as yet another relic disrupts their lives—this time the Holy Blood of Hailes. Don’t miss this rousing tale of mystery and mayhem. Crispin has his hands full with a mystery woman and his life just may never be the same again!
June 17, 2022
This series continues to be clever mysteries, good 14th century detail, and great characters.
This installment finds our disgraced knight-turned 'tracker' of lost things, Crispin Guest, on the search for a blood relic and who killed a monk for it.
I enjoy how the author takes a few pages at the end of each book to explain what was real in her story and what was not.
This installment finds our disgraced knight-turned 'tracker' of lost things, Crispin Guest, on the search for a blood relic and who killed a monk for it.
I enjoy how the author takes a few pages at the end of each book to explain what was real in her story and what was not.
January 20, 2018
Better than usual, even! Enjoyed this one, shows growth and change of characters.
Be aware that there is some sex in this one, as well as one of the characters being a gay male prostitute and transvestite. He has been in other books, but he has a slightly larger part in this book.
Be aware that there is some sex in this one, as well as one of the characters being a gay male prostitute and transvestite. He has been in other books, but he has a slightly larger part in this book.
February 6, 2018
Crispin is just as noble, clever, and wary of relics as ever! Crispin, Jack, and assorted love interests and religious fellows take readers on an emotional and entertaining ride through London and the countryside. Loved every minute of this story and thoroughly enjoyed the historical afterword.
May 24, 2018
A new author and series for me to follow...if you like medieval fiction and mystery...and great characters. Crispin Guest is a former Crusader knight turned investigator...great setting descriptions and exciting mystery set around Abbeys.
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