The Merchant's Tale

Oxford Medieval Mysteries #4

by Ann Swinfen, Phillip Battley (Narrator)

Oxford, Autumn 1353

St Frideswide’s Fair is a great annual event in Oxford, bringing together merchants and buyers from all over England and Wales, and from as far away as Flanders and France. Yet the earnings from the fair, granted to the Priory of St Frideswide centuries before, are resented by the town, and resentment can turn to violence. Under the unscrupulous Prior de Hungerford, even more trouble is brewing. Nicholas Elyot is warned by intelligencer Alice Walsea that attendance at the fair may be used for something more sinister, and not all French merchants may be innocent.

When a merchant from Flanders is attacked and an English traitor is murdered, can Nicholas disentangle the crimes hidden under cover of the fair?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Mystery, Medieval, Historical Mystery, Historical, Fiction, Crime

Audible Audio

First published July 24, 2014

About the author

Ann Swinfen spent her childhood partly in England and partly on the east coast of America. She read Classics and Mathematics at Oxford, where she married a fellow undergraduate, the historian David Swinfen. While bringing up their five children and studying for an MSc in Mathematics and a BA and PhD in English Literature, she had a variety of jobs, including university lecturer, translator, freelance journalist and software designer.

She served for nine years on the governing council of the Open University and for five years worked as a manager and editor in the technical author division of an international computer company, but gave up her full-time job to concentrate on her writing, while continuing part-time university teaching. In 1995 she founded Dundee Book Events, a voluntary organisation promoting books and authors to the general public.

Her first three novels, The Anniversary, The Travellers, and A Running Tide, all with a contemporary setting but also an historical resonance, were published by Random House, with translations into Dutch and German. Her fourth novel, The Testament of Mariam, marked something of a departure. Set in the first century, it recounts, from an unusual perspective, one of the most famous and yet ambiguous stories in human history. At the same time it explores life under a foreign occupying force, in lands still torn by conflict to this day. Her latest novel, Flood, is set in the fenlands of East Anglia during the seventeenth century, where the local people fought desperately to save their land from greedy and unscrupulous speculators.

She now lives on the northeast coast of Scotland, with her husband (formerly vice-principal of the University of Dundee), a cocker spaniel and two Maine Coon cats.

Reviews

[Eva · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like this series. It's a well written historical crime novel. And not necessary only about finding a murderer. In this case, yes, there is a murder. But the storyline is also political. And on the side you learn a great deal about the medieval fair. This fair actually existed. And parts of the story are real. Ofcourse, bookshopkeeper Nicolas Elyott is not. But he makes a nice enough main character. Sometimes a little bit too nice to my liking. If i should name a flaw, then it's this one: Nicolas is too good to be true. And the plot is usually not a big surprise. You can see it coming halfway through the book. But i mostly read this series for entertainment and historical context, and i love for what it is. Just that. Interesting and entertaining read. 3.5 stars.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm addicted to this series and I don't know what I'm going to do now that I've read all four of them (in barely more than a week as I just couldn't stop reading). I love, love, love the vivid characters and setting - Oxford in 1353 just four years after the massive outbreak of the Black Death- the author's excellent research into numerous aspects of fourteenth-century life and work, the assured narrative and authorial voice, all the wonderful details that bring medieval Oxford to life but never come across as info-dumping, the slow pacing which allows the plot and the characters to develop so beautifully. The pace in fact would probably be too slow for some readers - for example the fruit-picking scene at the beginning of the fourth book and the scenes about harvesting in the third - but I loved it, and found all four novels gripping from the first paragraph. I don't need breathless action on every page when an author is confident enough to spend plenty of time building her fictional world and letting us get to know, and love, her characters. I need more Nicholas Elyot and Mistress Makepeace and Alysoun and Emma and all the rest. Soon, please.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I look forward to each addition to Swinfen's Oxford mysteries series, and this installment did not disappoint. Occurring just weeks after The Huntsman's Tale , the story of lovable Nicholas Elyot carries on seamlessly. Now we find ourselves returned to Oxford in time for the St Frideswide's Fair, where some people have nefarious deeds in mind.

Nicholas is emboldened enough to begin pressing his suit with the lovely Emma and I felt the squeeze of my heart just as I would if two people I personally knew were finally discovering that they were perfect for one another. Mild mannered Nicholas proved that he can be a charming romantic at times, such as when convincing Emma that he would walk her home. 'There is no need, Nicholas. I shall be quite safe with the others.' 'You will be even safer with me.' Be still my heart.

I am also enjoying the development of other characters and relationships. For example, it is fun watching Nicholas' daughter Alysoun become a young woman. 'Alysoun looked pleased and slightly smug, finding herself part of Margaret's armed forces against the incompetent world of men.'

If it takes Nicholas and his comrades ridiculously long to determine just who could be the target of a mysterious murderer using the fair as his cover, this can be forgiven because the reader is treated to more exquisite views of daily life in 14th century Oxford. The challenges of gathering fruit and preparing food, the excitement and dangers of the fair, the struggles of a business owner falling under the rules of the Church, and much more make this novel a joy to read for the way it truly transports the reader back in time.

This is a series that is put at the top of my TBR as soon as a new book is released. I wonder when book 5 will be arriving, because I don't believe for a moment that Nicholas is 'once again a humble Oxford bookseller and glad to be done with high drama.' I have a feeling that mysterious events will find you again, dear Nicholas.

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fighting a fever, so I will be brief. I have read and enjoyed Ann Swinfen's medieval mystery series, was delighted to see her notice here on goodreads that this new one was available and immediately downloaded and read. It has a slow start and if anyone reading this is looking for a series authentic to the time and centered in Oxford, give it a try - but do start with the first book. Otherwise you will be lost. Prince Edward features in a fun sequence with our book seller. It is clear this series will continue and I shall look forward to Book 5!

[annapi · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's the Feast of St. Frideswide and a great fair is to be held in Oxford. Nicholas's sister and her friends decide to set up a booth to sell cheeses and preserves to make a little money. There's trouble with the local priory and its unscrupulous Prior de Hungerford, who seems to be selling items belonging to the priory to line his own pocket, which comes to Nicholas's attention when a merchant asks him to appraise books offered to him for sale. In the hustle and bustle of the fair, Nicholas becomes involved in more intrigue when he encounters Alice Walsea, the King's intelligencer we met in book 3, who is investigating rumors of a mercenary assassin in the area.

This story was much better written than book 3, and ends quite satisfactorily too. The romance between Nicholas and Emma is proceeding nicely, if slowly, and the minor characters are also developing further. I am looking forward to book 5, and hope that it will be a step forward instead of back for the series.

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the best of the current series. I think the author has hit her stride now that she has many characters who have been evolving in the various books. The historical aspects are more interesting too with such notables as the Black Prince.

I found the events of the fair to be quite intriguing. Once again, it does seem the women of the household do most of the work, but Nicholas is much more helpful than most of the town men encountered. Still, it can't have been an easy life for anyone in the years after the Black Death.

[Colin Mitchell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nicholas Elyot once again becomes embroiled into intrigue and murder all surrounding the priory of St.Frieswides in Oxford. Set during 1353 the country is in a truce with France and Prince Edward is staying at the priory during the period of the local fare. Tensions are high between the Canons of the priory and the Prior himself and between the locals, university and the priory. In the middle stands Nicholas.

A well researched story that combines fact and fiction into a very readable book that flows along at a good pace. My criticism is that Nicholas and his family come across as being too good and "nice" to be represented at any time period. Even his wounds seem to heal without any infections. I have gone from 4 to 3 on this one but will most likely read on with the series.

[Booknblues · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Merchant's Tale by Ann Swinfen is the fourth of the Oxford Medieval Mystery Series which is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. It is set in Oxford after the Great Plague in which the protagonist bookseller and scrivener, Nicholas Elyot has lost his wife. He is raising his two young children with the help of his sister Margaret.

I enjoy the details of everyday life, as when Nicholas, Margaret and a group of friends go foraging for blackberries and crab apples. There is also a fair at the priory in Oxford which provides entertainment as well.

Anyone who enjoys the medieval setting and mysteries might like these light mysteries. I suggest that the reader starts with the first book as so far there are only the four.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love living in this world with the families we have been introduced to through the Oxford Medieval Mysteries. The day to day living, their Medieval technologies, agriculture, food preparation, are fascinating. Maybe my favorite is the art and science of medieval book making... And then there is the twisting plot makes figuring out the answer all that more fun.

[Loretta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sigh. Another first-rate tale from a mistress of her art. Not fast-paced throughout, although it certainly has some exciting moments, but a rich tapestry of life in the fourteenth century. I always feel totally immersed in the experience when I read her Oxford Medieval Mysteries.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Continuing to enjoy this series, set in the 1400s. I am enjoying the characters, the mysteries that happen, and the historical fiction.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 STAR REREAD !! My favorite outing of these characters so far.. the author continues to increase their depth, vitality and their exposure. I do love that they remain in the same group of friends and relatives so we do not have to relearn a lot.

Peter Winchingham, merchant, is a new character and I hope a new volume is being worked on that includes him. I suspect it will be so as he bought a manor in Leighton, Nicholas' home community not very far from Oxford.

The historical aspects of the St. Frideswide's fair and Priory are very important to me as a reader, as are all of Ann Swinfen's works. The inclusion of the Black Prince as a visitor to the Priory and Oxford was excellent. Does it presage more contacts between Nicholas and the Prince?

This one was wonderful and the newer characters I feel point to more outings for this group. A tremendously good read.

[Mary R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Consistent

Having had the time to read all four books of this series (I hope there will be more) within a week, I am amazed that the product is so fresh right to the end. There's a lot of research to put these in these little books together and a lot of wonderful information shared. Almost every time that means "boring" not so here...loved the series hence the five stars. BRAVO ANN and thank you!

[Ana Mello · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a great fan of this series. When I saw this book yesterday I felt Ms. Swinfen had given me a wonderful birthday present.
Master Nicholas, an Oxford bookmaker, his family and friends are back, unraveling some dark deeds from an acquisitive prior and also some treachery by the french.
As always, de description of everyday life in medieval Oxford during the reign of Edward III is well researched and beautifully described.
I am happy Ms. Swinfen is a prolific writer, so I can hope for the next book soon

[Valorie Dalton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming possibilities and adept mystery

A mysterious plot, stolen books, and an exciting faire all feature in this novel. How it came together was clever and worked out in the very end of the book to give lots of room for the story. I like to pride myself on solving mysteries first but I did not guess this one. A few more characters were introduced, perhaps who will show up more in future novels.

[Lisa Brantly · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Not quite as good as the first 3 mysteries, but still very enjoyable.

[Hart_D (ajibooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series and enjoyed this latest installment as much as the others. This one focuses on the St. Frideswide's Fair, and the conflict between the townspeople and the Priory, which runs the fair. The plots are always pretty good, and I like the characters. But my favorite thing about these books is the depiction of daily life in medieval Oxford.

Unlike the other books, which have a lot of details about different occupations like scribing, candle-making, and farming, this one doesn't focus on any particular trade, but it does give a lot of information about how merchants participated in this kind of fair. Nicholas befriends a cloth merchant, who becomes a major character; it seems like he'll play a part in future books. Margaret and the other female characters sell jam and cheese at the fair. I like Margaret, because she reminds me of my grandmother; she's not a very loving woman, but she's utterly dedicated to taking care of Nicholas and his children. Jordain is not around a lot, although there is an absolutely adorable scene showing him and Nicholas meeting for the first time as children. Nicholas and Emma's romance moves forward a bit, and it's very sweet as always.

I also enjoyed seeing an interpretation of medieval theater, including Margaret's low opinion of traveling actors. There are a few other entertainments depicted too, such as a dancing bear. The plot has to do with spying and treachery, and there is a murder which is described pretty explicitly, as well as some other violence. Of course Nicholas saves the day. I really like that he is an ordinary man who always brushes aside any accolades, but I wonder if he'll see the Prince again.

[Jenny Sanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another cracking novel in a series of six.

Oxford hosts the annual St Frideswide’s Fair which always has a mixed response from the town. Other traders are forced to close their businesses for the duration of the event but the colour and festive atmosphere draw people to the priory which will take the profits. There are merchant's from foreign parts, unusual products, colour, noise, and a dancing bear.

Nicholas Elyot, the protagonist, whose story continues to unfold, finds himself party to rumours of a spy in the midst and a possible scheme to steal and sell off valuable books and treasures from the priory under the nose of the unscrupulous Prior de Hungerford. As a scrivener himself, his own business may take a hit financially at this crucial time of year as the students return and require supplies for their studies.

Nicholas's new friend from Flanders is attacked and a merchant murdered as rumours abound. Meanwhile, Nicholas's sister, Margaret and her friends set up their own stall within the priory grounds to sell their homemade produce and steal themselves for possible trouble brewing the English and French. The low key arrival of Prince Edward has everyone agog, but is everyone safe?

I so enjoyed the first three books in this series that I have bought the second three as an early birthday present. I am quite sure that I will read them multiple times but am trying to savour each one rather than binge them back-to-back. Not sure how long I will hold out...

[Hoefling Holger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading the book, same as all the other 3 books in the series. It is a pleasant mystery set in a medieval setting and I look forward to the books because despite the fact they are about murder, they have a very peaceful feel to them.

That being said, there are some reasons why it is only 4 stars instead of 5.

First, the author sometimes has a tendency to repeat things one has read several times. This has already gotten somewhat better in this book though.

Second, the author sometimes seems to try a little too hard to bring everything to a good ending and have harmony everywhere around our hero. No one is ever really jealous, people cooperate peacefully and all just love each other. Now - I do like the series for its peacefulness, but sometimes it is just a little too much and a bit more realism would be appreciated

Third, is that being now in book 4, I don't get the feeling that Nicolas Elyot's life is portrayed very realistically also from a monetary perspective. As a book seller he is certainly better off than a lot of other people, but by far not rich. Yet in basically every book, he seems to have free coin to spend on horses, he can stay away from his shop for days on end or can buy expensive items for his employees and friends, toys for the children etc. And all that without any impact on the rest of this life, any deprivation for himself or others. Also - a little realism here would be great.

[Sarah Hearn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read 3 of the 4 Oxford mysteries (missing the first one only) and I’ve enjoyed the attention to detail, the adhesion to 14th century mores, and the burgeoning romance between Nicholas and Emma. The only query I have is the references to individual bedrooms in Nicholas’ house. I understood that having individual bedrooms for each member of a family was at earliest at 16th century development; at least, that such a thing was common only among the wealthier members of society, everyone else sleeping fairly communally. Also, that beds were expensive so most people slept on truckle beds on on mattresses on the floor. So, the fact that Nicholas, Margaret, and his children each had a bedroom (OK, the kids shared a room - plus ça change) made me wonder at accuracy. I’m an historian, and a medieval historian to boot, so I think about stuff like this, but since Dr Swinfen is an expert who has presumably done the research, I suppose I must give her some leeway. Anyway, sometimes it’s best to just enjoy the story, which I did very much.

[Cindy Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fine writing!

Another outstanding book by Ann Swinfen! This is the fourth in this series and my favorite thus far. The medieval times are brought to life in detail
as the writing flows and the plot thickens. I love the characters, which are well described and develop over the course of the series. I suppose you could read the book as a standalone, but would miss out on the talented, well-versed writing and the engaging continuity of the suspense-filled series and the mysteries that are investigated by, mainly, the book seller Nicolas. The setting in Oxford, England is brought to life in the university town and through the detailed research of Swinfen we learn what an average family's lifestyle encompasses. Most of the characters are endearing and memorable.
I certainly hope this is not the last book in this series and entreat readers of historical fiction to read this above average series. I'm totally sold on Swinfen and want to read more from her.

[Spuddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

So far, this is the last book in this very well done medieval mystery series featuring bookseller Nicholas Elyot in Oxford, UK in 1353. It's not only that the series is set in my favorite historical time period, but that it is well written, character driven, and immersive into the culture and the times. I do hope there will be more books forthcoming in the series. The narrator, Phillip Battley, does a wonderful job of the different voices and capturing the soul of the story as he spins the tale.

Once again, major kudos to Ann Swinfen, who (I believe) self published these books and did an amazing job. Normally when I really enjoy a series, I hold back and save one until I know there's another coming out. I just couldn't do that with this one. She does have another historical series that I will move on to, but it's set in a later time frame that I'm not so enthusiastic about.

MORE, PLEASE??

[Hebby Roman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm loving this series, all the books are 5 Stars in my estimation, as Ms. Swinfen manages to bring us into the world of the 14th medieval times. And these are not books about royalty or nobility, as most medieval books are. These books are special because Ms. Swinfen has woven an alternate world of those long-ago times with great expertise, drawing you into the lives of these characters.
That being said, and I've started on the fifth book, and I will be desolate when I've finished the series, Book 4 is definitely the finest woven story so far. Primarily, due to the complexity of the plot(s) and mysteries, as shown against that very medieval institution of an Oxford fair.
This book puts the series in overdrive with plenty of medieval detail about merchants of those times, fairs, the push-pull between town and church, along with plenty of bad guys and villains thrown in, along with non-stop action.
Great book!

[Jane Irish Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series, and this book did not disappoint. Autumn arrives in Oxford, and with it the annual St. Frideswide's Fair just outside town, next to the priory. But local merchants resent the fact that just as students are returning for another term, they must close their shops for a week — the duration of the fair. And the fair booth rentals profit not the town, but the priory. In addition to this bad blood, the new prior is extremely controversial. Is he responsible for attempting to sell some of the treasures? An English merchant, who has been living in the Lowlands, consults Nicholas about some books he has been offered . . . . And that's not the only suspicious circumstance. Can Nicholas and his friends sort everything out before the end of the fair? Wonderful depiction of life in 14th century England, excellent characterization, and a compelling mystery, all combine to make this book very hard to put down. Highly recommended.

[Mary Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read all four of these back-to-back and really enjoyed them. Although I'm steeped in English history, I have a peculiar affinity for the 14th century which began at age 13 when I purloined a copy of Anya Seton's wonderful Katherine from my eldest brother. This is the height of the Plantagenets with Edward III and his numerous progeny, the time of Chaucer, the Black Death, the decline of feudalism, and the rise of a merchant class.

Swinfen is a true scholar with a clean, very readable style. She paints a landscape of mid-14th century Oxford and its environs with extraordinary historical accuracy and liveliness. Although they are good stories, there is not much unpredictable to the "mysteries." If you expect plots as complex as C. J. Sansom's Shardlake mystery series, you will be disappointed, but her characters are vivid and engaging. I plan to read more of her work.

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This really is a delightful series! I enjoy how there are subtle references to previous tales but these references do not prohibit others from understanding a specific tale regardless if they have or have not read the other tales. I enjoy the plots as well as some historically accurate details on both large scale and minuscule nuances. Both major and minor characters are enjoyable, and Swinfen writes their roles so that they contribute to the story and the plot. I usually attend at least one Renaissance Faire annually, and using the setting of a Fall Faire, really portrays how a faire was important to winter survival for some. I am enjoying watching Master Elyot circumvent the societal mores regarding women and work. Another entertaining read that makes me glad I stumbled across the Medieval Oxford Mystery Series!

[Argum · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is time for the priory fair which sets townsfolk in a state because they must close. The prior is not a very godly man and has even started charging admission. The ladies decide to take a booth and sell cheese. An old customer and friend of Nicholas's father in law is in town and has been offered some suspicious books turning to Nicholas for help. Meanwhile, the prior is stealing from his own house and the canons are trying to stop him. As if this is not enough, Mistress Walsea is in town because of rumors that an assassin/general bad guy is in the area. With time on his hands, Nicholas digs into all of it. He finds surprising allies and connections between these disparate events. Very fun look at medieval fairs and relations between the groups.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another in the Oxford Medieval Mysteries series. I'm really enjoying the continued daily life and hair-raising adventures of the protagonist, Nicholas Elyot. What I like about the books is that they are easy to read, feature a decent mystery, and are at the same time educational re different aspects of Medieval society in the aftermath of the Black Plague. To be honest, I gloss over the regular Oxford navigation cues, which I know are important to fix the reader to a particular place, but my brain doesn't do that very well. I have to see a picture or a map for that. Perhaps if I visit Oxford sometime I'll re-read those sections more carefully and join a walking tour. Overall, a solid read and a good escape.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much Ado About the French

Ann Swifen continues the tale of Nicholas Eylot. Oxford is a small town but the priory and town, never friendly, is preparing for St. Friend's Fair. Shops must close for the duration while the priory deals the benefits of the fair. Nicholas ' sisters and friends decide to sell their wares at the fair. Of course, there is a murder and rumours of French treachery, especially since Prince Edward is staying at the priory. Added to the mix is the new head of the priory who seems intent on stripping the priory of its valuables. How does this all play out? You will only find out if you read the story.

[Alissa McCarthy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so enjoying this series, especially the development of other characters and relationships. It does take Nicholas and his friends a long time to determine the target of a mysterious murderer using the fair as his cover, but it doesn't matter because the reader is treated to wonderful views of daily life in 14th century Oxford. The challenges of things like gathering fruit and preparing food, the excitement and dangers of the fair, the struggles of a business owner falling under the rules of the Church, make this novel a joy to read and is the reason the genre of historical fiction is my favorite.