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Owen Archer #11
A Conspiracy of Wolves
1374. When a member of one of York’s most prominent families is found dead in the woods, his throat torn out, rumours spread like wildfire that wolves are running loose throughout the city. Persuaded to investigate by the victim’s father, Owen Archer is convinced that a human killer is responsible. But before he can gather sufficient evidence to prove his case, a second body is discovered, stabbed to death. Is there a connection? What secrets are contained within the victim’s household? And what does apprentice healer Alisoun know that she’s not telling? Teaming up with Geoffrey Chaucer, who is in York on a secret mission on behalf of Prince Edward, Owen’s enquiries will draw him headlong into a deadly conspiracy.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published June 1, 2019
104 people are currently reading
311 people want to read
About the author
Candace Robb
48 books511 followersStoryteller, mythweaver, author of the Owen Archer, Kate Clifford, & Margaret Kerr mysteries. Primary residence, medieval York.
I blog about writing, medieval history, writing women's stories, and feature new scholarship in my field at candacerobbbooks.com, and share loads of medieval news, folklore, and whimsy on my facebook page, Candace Robb
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
August 13, 2019
A Conspiracy of Wolves is the 11th and latest installment in Candace Robb's Owen Archer mystery series, and what an exciting read it is!
This is my first Owen Archer read and while I missed some backstory, it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book. Thankfully the author drops in little bits of his history so you aren't too lost. But I'm excited now to start at the beginning of the series and work my way through them. Owen is a fabulous character and I'm anxious to learn more of him.
In A Conspiracy of Wolves Owen is asked to investigate the savage murder of a member of the town's most prominent family. Was it another wolf attack or something more sinister? With an exciting and well-paced plot, an intriguing mystery (which concluded much differently than I expected), and appealing characters I was very much entertained and look forward to going back ad reading the series with the first book. And I'm excited for the next adventure with Owen! And hopefully Alisoun will return, she was great.
Highly recommended!
This is my first Owen Archer read and while I missed some backstory, it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book. Thankfully the author drops in little bits of his history so you aren't too lost. But I'm excited now to start at the beginning of the series and work my way through them. Owen is a fabulous character and I'm anxious to learn more of him.
In A Conspiracy of Wolves Owen is asked to investigate the savage murder of a member of the town's most prominent family. Was it another wolf attack or something more sinister? With an exciting and well-paced plot, an intriguing mystery (which concluded much differently than I expected), and appealing characters I was very much entertained and look forward to going back ad reading the series with the first book. And I'm excited for the next adventure with Owen! And hopefully Alisoun will return, she was great.
Highly recommended!
July 31, 2019
'Open thine eyes. Trust thyself.' A word from healer Magda to Owen Archer!
A return to the world of the stunning one-eyed Owen Archer, longbow marksman and former Captain of the Guard, solver of mysteries, is a moment to delight in.
It's 1374 and the former spy for John Thoresby the Archbishop of York"
A new age is dawning, a new archbishop is coming. And with that a new mire of political difficulties. Owen has possibilities offered by York and and Prince Edward.
However, at this time the body of wealthy businessmanHoban Swann, son of the Coroner of Galtres Forest, Bartlof Swann, is found with his throat torn out. Archer is called on to determine the cause. Geoffrey Chaucer turns up to play a part.
Alisoun, Magda Digby's (a talented healer known as the Riverwoman) apprentice has been staying at Magda's whilst she was away to help any who might turn up. She already has had some dealings with a a client who has a suspicious injury from dogs or something more sinister.
As the body count mounts Owen's investigations uncover age old grudges and family divisions. Yet still the mystery eludes him.
As Magda exhorts Owen,
‘Magda recognizes the signs, not how or why this or that is revealed to her. She has no answers for thee, Bird-eye. This is thy conspiracy of wolves. Thou hast the charge, Magda merely warned thee. Thy task. Open thine eye.’
So wolves where there are no wolves, people being attacked and killed by some sort of creature resembling a dog, valuable hunting dogs killed and the citizens of York up in arms.
I was intrigued by the way Robb opened up choices to Archer for his future and the way that decision becomes focused.
I also was fascinated by the journey of Brother Michaelo, the former secretary to Thoresby, Archer's inclusion of Michaelo and the way the Brother takes up the challenges presented to him.
The novel explores closure in many ways for Owen and Lucie' as the vistas open up for the future.
A Severn House ARC via NetGalley
A return to the world of the stunning one-eyed Owen Archer, longbow marksman and former Captain of the Guard, solver of mysteries, is a moment to delight in.
It's 1374 and the former spy for John Thoresby the Archbishop of York"
A new age is dawning, a new archbishop is coming. And with that a new mire of political difficulties. Owen has possibilities offered by York and and Prince Edward.
However, at this time the body of wealthy businessmanHoban Swann, son of the Coroner of Galtres Forest, Bartlof Swann, is found with his throat torn out. Archer is called on to determine the cause. Geoffrey Chaucer turns up to play a part.
Alisoun, Magda Digby's (a talented healer known as the Riverwoman) apprentice has been staying at Magda's whilst she was away to help any who might turn up. She already has had some dealings with a a client who has a suspicious injury from dogs or something more sinister.
As the body count mounts Owen's investigations uncover age old grudges and family divisions. Yet still the mystery eludes him.
As Magda exhorts Owen,
‘Magda recognizes the signs, not how or why this or that is revealed to her. She has no answers for thee, Bird-eye. This is thy conspiracy of wolves. Thou hast the charge, Magda merely warned thee. Thy task. Open thine eye.’
So wolves where there are no wolves, people being attacked and killed by some sort of creature resembling a dog, valuable hunting dogs killed and the citizens of York up in arms.
I was intrigued by the way Robb opened up choices to Archer for his future and the way that decision becomes focused.
I also was fascinated by the journey of Brother Michaelo, the former secretary to Thoresby, Archer's inclusion of Michaelo and the way the Brother takes up the challenges presented to him.
The novel explores closure in many ways for Owen and Lucie' as the vistas open up for the future.
A Severn House ARC via NetGalley
September 9, 2020
I have read all of the Owen Archer books, but there was a space of time since last time round. I felt like I was being reunited with a long lost friend and truly enjoyed the reading of this action-packed episode. All the characters are so memorable and richly drawn it felt like a family reunion.
Another reason for my delay was the pricing of the book. I grabbed this up at the price of 1.99 and did a happy dance. I see the next one up is 14.99 so that will be another waiting game. Too high for me.
This book is dense with family revenge plots, community panic over wolf rumors, people dying and/or being healed, Owen's happy family life as well as a big decision to make concerning his future.
It is a very good read and I had no problem remembering where I had left off.
Kindle Purchase
Another reason for my delay was the pricing of the book. I grabbed this up at the price of 1.99 and did a happy dance. I see the next one up is 14.99 so that will be another waiting game. Too high for me.
This book is dense with family revenge plots, community panic over wolf rumors, people dying and/or being healed, Owen's happy family life as well as a big decision to make concerning his future.
It is a very good read and I had no problem remembering where I had left off.
Kindle Purchase
August 8, 2019
My first foray into the author's Owen Archer mystery series, A Conspiracy of Wolves is a very satisfying, and entertaining whodunit. I enjoyed the camaraderie between Owen and the crew enlisted to solve the grisly murders. The plot kept me intrigued as each new chapter revealed some new information or twist to the case, shedding light on the complex revenge taking place (I can say no more about that). As this is the first of the series that I have read, I was pleased that the author left enough hints in the narrative to give me some of the back story to Owen's life and adventures. Another aspect of the tale is the doings of the village and the folk who live there, a creative way to help the readers immerse themselves in the story. The characters are a joy to read...the author has left nothing out in their development. My only problem (and it's a good one to have) is that I have so many books to read...now I have another series to delve into. 4 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 10, 2019
#AconspiracyOfWolves #NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for this hoped for 11th book in the Owen Archer series. Owen is considering employment Propspects. but has has more than one "iron in the fire" as the tale begins. He is mourning his wife' s aunt Dame Phillipa, as well as his former long time employer John Thoresby, Archbishop of York.
Enter Crispin Poole, merchant and former soldier bitten by a dog or ...a wolf? .. into his life as well as Geoffrey Chaucer on a mission from the Prince Edward. Wolves or dogs are woven through most of the tale in a complicated mystery of retribution.
I had to reorient myself to all the players in Dame Lucie and Owen's life which took awhile. I enjoyed the last chapter immensely with it's suggestion of things to come.
Thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for this hoped for 11th book in the Owen Archer series. Owen is considering employment Propspects. but has has more than one "iron in the fire" as the tale begins. He is mourning his wife' s aunt Dame Phillipa, as well as his former long time employer John Thoresby, Archbishop of York.
Enter Crispin Poole, merchant and former soldier bitten by a dog or ...a wolf? .. into his life as well as Geoffrey Chaucer on a mission from the Prince Edward. Wolves or dogs are woven through most of the tale in a complicated mystery of retribution.
I had to reorient myself to all the players in Dame Lucie and Owen's life which took awhile. I enjoyed the last chapter immensely with it's suggestion of things to come.
August 14, 2019
My goodness, just how brilliant is this book? Full disclosure; I was at first a bit tentative about reviewing this, mainly because with it being book eleven in the Owen Archer series, I did worry that I had come into the series way too late to truly be able to enjoy it, I didn’t know if the previous stories were linked in anyway or if I would be missing out on anything by not reading the previous ten books; but I loved the sound of this so much that I just went for it and oh, boy am I pleased that I did, this is amazing – how has this series past be by for so long? H
I really didn’t need to worry about not enjoying it or not being able to follow the story, if I didn’t know this was apart of a series, I would have read it like a stand-a-lone, but saying that I am eager to read more of Owen Archer – who is a stunning hero, my god how much have a fallen head over heels for this one eyed, marksman and medieval detective? Be still my beating heart, it is definitely a moment for a #DoubleSigh 😉
Set during the 14th century in York, after the brutal death of Hoban Swann; a member from one of the most prominent families in York, Hoban’s father asks Owen Archer to help and investigate what happened. Owen is currently grieving after a friends death, but not knowing where his future lays, Owen accepts the case. It first appears as though the victim has been attacked by something dog or wolf like, as his wounds could only come from such a savage beast, yet Owen has other idea’s, from his first look over the body he soon realises that the killer must be human, and then when another body is discovered and Owen thinks that these two attacks must be connected some how…but how? – Well, I ain’t going to tell you, am I? 😉 So with his friend Geoffrey Chaucer (Yes, the very one, and no not the Paul Bettany one either ;-)) honestly, Chaucer is a hoot, the way he irritates the hell out of Owen with his constant babbling and writing is very funny, there is quite a bit of one eye rolling from Owen.
I do love the relationship between Owen and Chaucer, when I first met them I would never have thought that they would have such a great if odd friendship, I don’t know if Chaucer has been a constant fixture thought the series, but from this I would say he has because there is such a ease between them, I really love how these two are written a fictional character and a real man from history good friends. I love it.
As the investigation progresses Owen think that healers apprentice Alisoun knows far more then what she says and going from the way the story opened I would have to agree with him, I do really like Alisoun, she is a interesting character she is trying to learn the ways of the healer and yet she is unsure of how to make her own way in that world, I love how her character develops through the story.
Anyone who follows my reviews will have an idea of what the book is like, as I am a bit of a creature of habit and do tend to stick very closely to what I like, I love a good historical mystery, I love following the investigation and trying to guess where the story is leading some times you can guess where there the investigation is going, but this one took me by surprise. I first though this person was involved then quickly changing my mind to that person – honestly I would have found most of the cast of characters guilty for something, and then; boom this mind-blowing ending that made me sit back and go “Woah, that was unexpected!”
Overall this is a seriously great, edge of your seat, page turning mystery that grabs you from that very first sentence. It has a real edginess to it that is not for the faint hearted, the writing is some of the best I have come across it is very clear that Candace Robb has a passion for the era and these stories, as you can feel it in the words the details are incredibly accurate everything from the clothing to the dialogue is bang on the mark with historical accuracy. While reading and as you delve deeper and deeper into the mystery you feel the tension that swirls around Owen’s shoulders as he tries to find out what is going on, and for me that is the perfect historical, I love that realism.
A brutally, realistic and edgy mystery that you won’t wish to end.
I really didn’t need to worry about not enjoying it or not being able to follow the story, if I didn’t know this was apart of a series, I would have read it like a stand-a-lone, but saying that I am eager to read more of Owen Archer – who is a stunning hero, my god how much have a fallen head over heels for this one eyed, marksman and medieval detective? Be still my beating heart, it is definitely a moment for a #DoubleSigh 😉
Set during the 14th century in York, after the brutal death of Hoban Swann; a member from one of the most prominent families in York, Hoban’s father asks Owen Archer to help and investigate what happened. Owen is currently grieving after a friends death, but not knowing where his future lays, Owen accepts the case. It first appears as though the victim has been attacked by something dog or wolf like, as his wounds could only come from such a savage beast, yet Owen has other idea’s, from his first look over the body he soon realises that the killer must be human, and then when another body is discovered and Owen thinks that these two attacks must be connected some how…but how? – Well, I ain’t going to tell you, am I? 😉 So with his friend Geoffrey Chaucer (Yes, the very one, and no not the Paul Bettany one either ;-)) honestly, Chaucer is a hoot, the way he irritates the hell out of Owen with his constant babbling and writing is very funny, there is quite a bit of one eye rolling from Owen.
I do love the relationship between Owen and Chaucer, when I first met them I would never have thought that they would have such a great if odd friendship, I don’t know if Chaucer has been a constant fixture thought the series, but from this I would say he has because there is such a ease between them, I really love how these two are written a fictional character and a real man from history good friends. I love it.
As the investigation progresses Owen think that healers apprentice Alisoun knows far more then what she says and going from the way the story opened I would have to agree with him, I do really like Alisoun, she is a interesting character she is trying to learn the ways of the healer and yet she is unsure of how to make her own way in that world, I love how her character develops through the story.
Anyone who follows my reviews will have an idea of what the book is like, as I am a bit of a creature of habit and do tend to stick very closely to what I like, I love a good historical mystery, I love following the investigation and trying to guess where the story is leading some times you can guess where there the investigation is going, but this one took me by surprise. I first though this person was involved then quickly changing my mind to that person – honestly I would have found most of the cast of characters guilty for something, and then; boom this mind-blowing ending that made me sit back and go “Woah, that was unexpected!”
Overall this is a seriously great, edge of your seat, page turning mystery that grabs you from that very first sentence. It has a real edginess to it that is not for the faint hearted, the writing is some of the best I have come across it is very clear that Candace Robb has a passion for the era and these stories, as you can feel it in the words the details are incredibly accurate everything from the clothing to the dialogue is bang on the mark with historical accuracy. While reading and as you delve deeper and deeper into the mystery you feel the tension that swirls around Owen’s shoulders as he tries to find out what is going on, and for me that is the perfect historical, I love that realism.
A brutally, realistic and edgy mystery that you won’t wish to end.
July 21, 2022
Vintage Owen Archer, quick enjoyable summer read - I happy (pun intended) that Ms. Robb has returned to the series
November 13, 2021
Like all the other reviewers, I feel like Owen Archer and his family are old friends. These books set in 16th Century York are great stories, rich with historical detail and well-drawn characters. This story returns to York and Archer doesn’t have to wander away from his family on his duties. It was a pleasure to find him surrounded by his family and (mostly) trusted friends. I hope Candace Robb writes many more!
June 12, 2019
What is it that makes a guy with an eye patch have sex appeal? Owen Archer, the hero of this series, certainly does. Robb does a good job with historical detail here, and she spins a twisty mystery. On to the next!
May 19, 2025
It's a long while since I read an Owen Archer book and I was glad to be back. Now Thoresby is dead, Owen is unemployed but is called to look into two murders, all the time thinking what to do about two job offers, one from the town and one from a Royal personage. With many well drawn characters and a complicated plot to get my teeth into I soon got through this book and am ready for more.
August 14, 2019
This book was received as an ARC from the Author, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own
Conspiracy of Wolves is the latest installment in the gripping series of Owen Archer mysteries. Set in the medieval 14th century York, Owen is still mourning the loss of his patron and facing uncertainty of his own future. Archer is called to investigate a horrific murder of one the members of a prominent family. Hoban Swann was brutally attacked and the father of the deceased has asked Owen to step in and use his expertise to investigate.
A rumor in the city, that vicious wolves are lurking in the woods and has caused the wounds and death of the recently departed. Owen teams up once again with Geoffrey Chaucer, who is in York on a secret mission on behalf of Prince Edward.
Archer has a hunch after closer expectation that all is not what it seems to be.
He most discover clues and a motive but when another murder occurs. He knows their maybe a link between the two.
Once again Candace Robb manages to draw you in a thrilling mystery. This superb well-written read here with absolutely fantastic characters that totally captivated and fascinated me. The character relationship between Archer and Geoffrey Chaucer is written so memorable, Chaucer is always amusing thorn in Owen’s side.
You will enjoy their banter and the way the author has created splendid dialogue between the two of them them.
Another sub character worth noting is the healer apprentice, Allisoun who questions her instincts and is still learning to follow her inner voice.
Owen has lot on his plates with murders to solve, and a new Archbishop of York. Also there are new political intrigues and secrets for Owen to navigate through.
The author has created a plot that was intricate and kept me engaged from start to finish. The novel is both character driven and intriguing mystery. You will be completely vested in this unforgettable read.
Candace Robb writes some of the best a complex, suspenseful, atmospheric mysteries.
Conspiracy of Wolves is the eleventh novel in the Owen Archer series, but it can be read as a standalone.
—-
marksman and medieval detective? Be still my beating heart, it is definitely a moment for a #DoubleSigh
Set during the 14th century in York, after the brutal death of Hoban Swann; a member from one of the most prominent families in York, Hoban’s father asks Owen Archer to help and investigate what happened. Owen is currently grieving after a friends death, but not knowing where his future lays, Owen accepts the case. It first appears as though the victim has been attacked by something dog or wolf like, as his wounds could only come from such a savage beast, yet Owen has other idea’s, from his first look over the body he soon realises that the killer must be human, and then when another body is discovered and Owen thinks that these two attacks must be connected some how…but how? – Well, I ain’t going to tell you, am I? So with his friend Geoffrey Chaucer (Yes, the very one, and no not the Paul Bettany one either ;-)) honestly, Chaucer is a hoot, the way he irritates the hell out of Owen with his constant babbling and writing is very funny, there is quite a bit of one eye rolling from Owen.
I do love the relationship between Owen and Chaucer, when I first met them I would never have thought that they would have such a great if odd friendship, I don’t know if Chaucer has been a constant fixture thought the series, but from this I would say he has because there is such a ease between them, I really love how these two are written a fictional character and a real man from history good friends. I love it.
As the investigation progresses Owen think that Geoffrey Chaucer ( knows far more then what she says and going from the way the story opened I would have to agree with him, I do really like Alisoun, she is a interesting character she is trying to learn the ways of the healer and yet she is unsure of how to make her own way in that world, I love how her character develops through the story.
Anyone who follows my reviews will have an idea of what the book is like, as I am a bit of a creature of habit and do tend to stick very closely to what I like, I love a good historical mystery, I love following the investigation and trying to guess where the story is leading some times you can guess where there the investigation is going, but this one took me by surprise. I first though this person was involved then quickly changing my mind to that person – honestly I would have found most of the cast of characters guilty for something, and then; boom this mind-blowing ending that made me sit back and go “Woah, that was unexpected!”
Overall this is a seriously great, edge of your seat, page turning mystery that grabs you from that very first sentence. It has a real edginess to it that is not for the faint hearted, the writing is some of the best I have come across it is very clear that Candace Robb has a passion for the era and these stories, as you can feel it in the words the details are incredibly accurate everything from the clothing to the dialogue is bang on the mark with historical accuracy. While reading and as you delve deeper and deeper into the mystery you feel the tension that swirls around Owen’s shoulders as he tries to find out what is going on, and for me that is the perfect historical, I love that realism.
A brutally, realistic and edgy mystery that you won’t wish to end.
***
***
Owen is called to investigate when Hoban Swann is found dead, apparently killed by wolves. It becomes apparent that it was murder and the killer was human not beast. When another murder soon follows rumors begin to spread that wolves roam the streets of the city. Owen and those he trusts, and a few he doesn’t, must find who is behind the killings and why.
I had given up hope that there would be any more books in this series so was very excited to see a new Owen Archer. I was not disappointed! Once I started reading I found it hard to put down and finished in one day. Not only are there murders to solve, but with a new Archbishop of York, there are new political intrigues for Owen to navigate. This resulted in a plot that was intricate and kept me engaged throughout.
After a period of retirement, Owen Archer is now questioning his abilities, which gives the character more depth. Geoffrey Chaucer is back to be an often amusing thorn in Owen’s side. I really enjoyed the focus on Allisoun, her progress as a healer, questioning her instincts and learning to follow her inner voice.
Thank you to Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours and the publisher, Severn House, for providing me with a advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
#aconspiracyofwolvesblogtour
#CandaceRobb #AConspiracyofWolves #historical
Conspiracy of Wolves is the latest installment in the gripping series of Owen Archer mysteries. Set in the medieval 14th century York, Owen is still mourning the loss of his patron and facing uncertainty of his own future. Archer is called to investigate a horrific murder of one the members of a prominent family. Hoban Swann was brutally attacked and the father of the deceased has asked Owen to step in and use his expertise to investigate.
A rumor in the city, that vicious wolves are lurking in the woods and has caused the wounds and death of the recently departed. Owen teams up once again with Geoffrey Chaucer, who is in York on a secret mission on behalf of Prince Edward.
Archer has a hunch after closer expectation that all is not what it seems to be.
He most discover clues and a motive but when another murder occurs. He knows their maybe a link between the two.
Once again Candace Robb manages to draw you in a thrilling mystery. This superb well-written read here with absolutely fantastic characters that totally captivated and fascinated me. The character relationship between Archer and Geoffrey Chaucer is written so memorable, Chaucer is always amusing thorn in Owen’s side.
You will enjoy their banter and the way the author has created splendid dialogue between the two of them them.
Another sub character worth noting is the healer apprentice, Allisoun who questions her instincts and is still learning to follow her inner voice.
Owen has lot on his plates with murders to solve, and a new Archbishop of York. Also there are new political intrigues and secrets for Owen to navigate through.
The author has created a plot that was intricate and kept me engaged from start to finish. The novel is both character driven and intriguing mystery. You will be completely vested in this unforgettable read.
Candace Robb writes some of the best a complex, suspenseful, atmospheric mysteries.
Conspiracy of Wolves is the eleventh novel in the Owen Archer series, but it can be read as a standalone.
—-
marksman and medieval detective? Be still my beating heart, it is definitely a moment for a #DoubleSigh
Set during the 14th century in York, after the brutal death of Hoban Swann; a member from one of the most prominent families in York, Hoban’s father asks Owen Archer to help and investigate what happened. Owen is currently grieving after a friends death, but not knowing where his future lays, Owen accepts the case. It first appears as though the victim has been attacked by something dog or wolf like, as his wounds could only come from such a savage beast, yet Owen has other idea’s, from his first look over the body he soon realises that the killer must be human, and then when another body is discovered and Owen thinks that these two attacks must be connected some how…but how? – Well, I ain’t going to tell you, am I? So with his friend Geoffrey Chaucer (Yes, the very one, and no not the Paul Bettany one either ;-)) honestly, Chaucer is a hoot, the way he irritates the hell out of Owen with his constant babbling and writing is very funny, there is quite a bit of one eye rolling from Owen.
I do love the relationship between Owen and Chaucer, when I first met them I would never have thought that they would have such a great if odd friendship, I don’t know if Chaucer has been a constant fixture thought the series, but from this I would say he has because there is such a ease between them, I really love how these two are written a fictional character and a real man from history good friends. I love it.
As the investigation progresses Owen think that Geoffrey Chaucer ( knows far more then what she says and going from the way the story opened I would have to agree with him, I do really like Alisoun, she is a interesting character she is trying to learn the ways of the healer and yet she is unsure of how to make her own way in that world, I love how her character develops through the story.
Anyone who follows my reviews will have an idea of what the book is like, as I am a bit of a creature of habit and do tend to stick very closely to what I like, I love a good historical mystery, I love following the investigation and trying to guess where the story is leading some times you can guess where there the investigation is going, but this one took me by surprise. I first though this person was involved then quickly changing my mind to that person – honestly I would have found most of the cast of characters guilty for something, and then; boom this mind-blowing ending that made me sit back and go “Woah, that was unexpected!”
Overall this is a seriously great, edge of your seat, page turning mystery that grabs you from that very first sentence. It has a real edginess to it that is not for the faint hearted, the writing is some of the best I have come across it is very clear that Candace Robb has a passion for the era and these stories, as you can feel it in the words the details are incredibly accurate everything from the clothing to the dialogue is bang on the mark with historical accuracy. While reading and as you delve deeper and deeper into the mystery you feel the tension that swirls around Owen’s shoulders as he tries to find out what is going on, and for me that is the perfect historical, I love that realism.
A brutally, realistic and edgy mystery that you won’t wish to end.
***
***
Owen is called to investigate when Hoban Swann is found dead, apparently killed by wolves. It becomes apparent that it was murder and the killer was human not beast. When another murder soon follows rumors begin to spread that wolves roam the streets of the city. Owen and those he trusts, and a few he doesn’t, must find who is behind the killings and why.
I had given up hope that there would be any more books in this series so was very excited to see a new Owen Archer. I was not disappointed! Once I started reading I found it hard to put down and finished in one day. Not only are there murders to solve, but with a new Archbishop of York, there are new political intrigues for Owen to navigate. This resulted in a plot that was intricate and kept me engaged throughout.
After a period of retirement, Owen Archer is now questioning his abilities, which gives the character more depth. Geoffrey Chaucer is back to be an often amusing thorn in Owen’s side. I really enjoyed the focus on Allisoun, her progress as a healer, questioning her instincts and learning to follow her inner voice.
Thank you to Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours and the publisher, Severn House, for providing me with a advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
#aconspiracyofwolvesblogtour
#CandaceRobb #AConspiracyofWolves #historical
July 31, 2019
Originally published at Reading Reality
When I reviewed the previous book in the Owen Archer series, A Vigil of Spies, nearly four years ago, it read as an ending to the series. I wasn’t certain that it was the ending, but it felt very much like it was. Owen’s patron, mentor and employer, John Thoresby, the Archbishop of York, lies dying throughout the story, only to pass, as he did in history, late in the year 1373.
The story felt like it was closing down. Owen Archer seemed to have finished his metamorphosis from the slightly lost and somewhat resentful ex-soldier that he was at the very beginning of the series in The Apothecary Rose, becoming a trusted agent for Thoresby and protector of the city of York, as well as an experienced investigator and a loving and fulfilled family man.
But Owen is just into middle age, made comfortably well-off by Thoresby’s final bequests and actions, but not nearly ready to settle into a life of leisure – or even a life of merely managing his estates.
As A Conspiracy of Wolves opens, Owen in on his way back to York after a visit to those estates, and pondering his options. Options that seem to be in conflict, a conflict that is pointed out rather insistently when Owen is asked to investigate a murder that seems to have been caused by rampaging wolves.
It’s up to Owen to determine whether those wolves have four legs or two, before hysteria grips the entire city.
The case is murky, and so is Owen’s future. He has to figure out the motive for what becomes a series of murders and attempts at it before he can determine who is behind it all. While at every turn he feels caught between his duty to the city and the request, to be read as an order, that he has received from Court.
He wants to stay in York, but he also wants the access to information and authority that comes with serving the crown. But if he doesn’t solve these grisly murders, neither will want his service – nor could he live with himself.
Escape Rating B: The Owen Archer series is an absolutely terrific historical mystery series. Owen, and his wife Lucie the apothecary, change and grow over the course of their adventures, and the author does an excellent job of exploring the world of 14th century York and the swirl of politics that surrounds the capital of the North. This is certainly a series that deepens as it goes, and will reward readers who start at the beginning. After all, Owen comes to York in The Apothecary Rose to investigate Lucie as a possible murderer. It’s fun to see how they go from mutual suspicion to domestic partnership!
But, as much as I loved this series, I had a difficult time getting into this particular entry. I was very happy to be back in York with these characters, but the beginning of the story felt as murky as Owen’s personal decision making-process.
At the beginning, Owen doesn’t know where he’s going, he doubts what he is doing, and so do we. That the case he’s working on is a confused mess doesn’t help either him or us.
In the 14th century that Owen operates in, forensic science is pretty much non-existent as we know it. He’s forced to rely on observations, his own and other people’s. And while Owen may see clearer than most in spite of the loss of one of his eyes before the series opened, he still only knows what is seen and heard. The body he investigates was meant to appear as though the victim had died from being mauled by a wolf, but he is willing to look deeper – and it doesn’t take much observation – as long as it is detached – to see that under the horrific teeth and claw marks there’s a long, clean gash – the kind made by a sharp knife. Wolves don’t carry knives.
So someone wants it to look like a wolf attacked and wants to get everyone stirred up and suspicious. But of whom – and for what? Owen begins the case with no clue of what and why, only a body.
It takes him a long time – relatively – to learn what this is really all about. Plenty of time and effort for him to doubt himself – even if others do not. And equally plenty of time for pressure to be applied from all sides – to solve the case, and to decide his own fate.
I think that part of my struggle with the story was that I missed the political angles – as does Owen. He misses the authority he used to have, not because he wants power over people, but because it cut through a whole lot of corners. He often feels stymied in his investigation by needing to find allies or seek permission – something he has long lost his taste for.
Once the pieces of the case come together – basically once enough people have died or been attacked that they all stop lying and prevaricating, the conclusion arrives in a flurry of action – and pages.
At the end, Owen does find a way to convince both of his potential masters that they are better off working together through him rather than fighting over his possible service. And his service to the Crown will put him into the thick of the machinations that surrounded the deaths of the Black Prince and Edward III, deaths that set up the decades-long succession fight yet to come. A fight that history has come to call the Wars of the Roses.
This will be grand. Also bloody and messy. But definitely grand.
When I reviewed the previous book in the Owen Archer series, A Vigil of Spies, nearly four years ago, it read as an ending to the series. I wasn’t certain that it was the ending, but it felt very much like it was. Owen’s patron, mentor and employer, John Thoresby, the Archbishop of York, lies dying throughout the story, only to pass, as he did in history, late in the year 1373.
The story felt like it was closing down. Owen Archer seemed to have finished his metamorphosis from the slightly lost and somewhat resentful ex-soldier that he was at the very beginning of the series in The Apothecary Rose, becoming a trusted agent for Thoresby and protector of the city of York, as well as an experienced investigator and a loving and fulfilled family man.
But Owen is just into middle age, made comfortably well-off by Thoresby’s final bequests and actions, but not nearly ready to settle into a life of leisure – or even a life of merely managing his estates.
As A Conspiracy of Wolves opens, Owen in on his way back to York after a visit to those estates, and pondering his options. Options that seem to be in conflict, a conflict that is pointed out rather insistently when Owen is asked to investigate a murder that seems to have been caused by rampaging wolves.
It’s up to Owen to determine whether those wolves have four legs or two, before hysteria grips the entire city.
The case is murky, and so is Owen’s future. He has to figure out the motive for what becomes a series of murders and attempts at it before he can determine who is behind it all. While at every turn he feels caught between his duty to the city and the request, to be read as an order, that he has received from Court.
He wants to stay in York, but he also wants the access to information and authority that comes with serving the crown. But if he doesn’t solve these grisly murders, neither will want his service – nor could he live with himself.
Escape Rating B: The Owen Archer series is an absolutely terrific historical mystery series. Owen, and his wife Lucie the apothecary, change and grow over the course of their adventures, and the author does an excellent job of exploring the world of 14th century York and the swirl of politics that surrounds the capital of the North. This is certainly a series that deepens as it goes, and will reward readers who start at the beginning. After all, Owen comes to York in The Apothecary Rose to investigate Lucie as a possible murderer. It’s fun to see how they go from mutual suspicion to domestic partnership!
But, as much as I loved this series, I had a difficult time getting into this particular entry. I was very happy to be back in York with these characters, but the beginning of the story felt as murky as Owen’s personal decision making-process.
At the beginning, Owen doesn’t know where he’s going, he doubts what he is doing, and so do we. That the case he’s working on is a confused mess doesn’t help either him or us.
In the 14th century that Owen operates in, forensic science is pretty much non-existent as we know it. He’s forced to rely on observations, his own and other people’s. And while Owen may see clearer than most in spite of the loss of one of his eyes before the series opened, he still only knows what is seen and heard. The body he investigates was meant to appear as though the victim had died from being mauled by a wolf, but he is willing to look deeper – and it doesn’t take much observation – as long as it is detached – to see that under the horrific teeth and claw marks there’s a long, clean gash – the kind made by a sharp knife. Wolves don’t carry knives.
So someone wants it to look like a wolf attacked and wants to get everyone stirred up and suspicious. But of whom – and for what? Owen begins the case with no clue of what and why, only a body.
It takes him a long time – relatively – to learn what this is really all about. Plenty of time and effort for him to doubt himself – even if others do not. And equally plenty of time for pressure to be applied from all sides – to solve the case, and to decide his own fate.
I think that part of my struggle with the story was that I missed the political angles – as does Owen. He misses the authority he used to have, not because he wants power over people, but because it cut through a whole lot of corners. He often feels stymied in his investigation by needing to find allies or seek permission – something he has long lost his taste for.
Once the pieces of the case come together – basically once enough people have died or been attacked that they all stop lying and prevaricating, the conclusion arrives in a flurry of action – and pages.
At the end, Owen does find a way to convince both of his potential masters that they are better off working together through him rather than fighting over his possible service. And his service to the Crown will put him into the thick of the machinations that surrounded the deaths of the Black Prince and Edward III, deaths that set up the decades-long succession fight yet to come. A fight that history has come to call the Wars of the Roses.
This will be grand. Also bloody and messy. But definitely grand.
December 11, 2024
I loved the continuing saga of the Archer family. Thank you Candace for coming home to your tales of York. 2024 - I had to reread this in preparation for the new member of the family - A Snake in the Barley. So excited to get my new baby in the post.
May 4, 2024
14th century England. York is the focus of the story but other historic events and characters are included. The puzzle is long in coming, but the last few chapters explain it all.
July 7, 2019
My thoughts
I haven’t read any of Robb’s previous novels (mea culpa) but A Conspiracy of Wolves works as a standalone. Robb uses backstory well. She’s specific enough that I understood the context of references to the past, but vague enough that she doesn’t give away the solution to a previous series’ title.
I liked Owen Archer & company enough that I’ll seek out previous books in this series. There were so many things to enjoy! Here’s a few:
1. The relevance
Ever heard the saying “The more things change, the more they stay the same”? This ran through my mind several times as I read.
Each time a character referenced the power of wealthy people to escape justice, I nodded my head. Yes, that still happens.
Each time a character expressed fear over pregnancy and childbirth, I nodded again. Yes, modern medicine has helped lessen the risk of childbearing . . . if one has access to it. Not everyone does. Lucie, Archer’s wife, Alisoun, and Magda, all gifted healers, know the dangers of pregnancy. Each time a pregnancy is mentioned (and it’s a reoccurring motif), it’s with trepidation. The healers make great use of their limited resources, all the while knowing their efforts might be too little, too late.
This theme hit me especially hard because of the high maternal death rate in my home state. Recent news reports have shown that a high percentage of women live more than two hours from a hospital and adequate healthcare during their pregnancies. Horrible, but true. It made the characters’ fears feel relevant and real for me, despite the differences in our time periods.
2. The historical research
Robb knows this time period. Her words immersed me in 14th century York, its culture, and its people. She brought it to life in rich detail. I was in awe of her ability to re-create a world of the past without bogging down the story with unnecessary facts or drawing undue attention to her methods. (Great historical fiction writers are rockstars, in my opinion.)
3. Relatable characters
I sympathized and cheered for them. (Well, some of them!) While the time period helps shape their worldviews, these characters’ personalities and relationships show that human nature hasn’t changed.
4. Chaucer
All the characters were great to meet. But having Geoffrey Chaucer (yes, that Chaucer!) as a character was too much fun for me as a literature major. All that gossipy, clever curiosity in his creative mind: it’s delicious fun to see Robb bring the famed author to life and use him in the story. Anyone who’s read The Canterbury Tales will love this.
5. And more . . .
Well-developed series characters who continually reveal new sides of their personalities. Conflicting agendas and suspicions. Tense atmosphere with a delightfully creepy edge. Evocative descriptions. A realistic, rich mystery.
A must-read for fans of historical mysteries.
Thanks to Severn House and Netgalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I haven’t read any of Robb’s previous novels (mea culpa) but A Conspiracy of Wolves works as a standalone. Robb uses backstory well. She’s specific enough that I understood the context of references to the past, but vague enough that she doesn’t give away the solution to a previous series’ title.
I liked Owen Archer & company enough that I’ll seek out previous books in this series. There were so many things to enjoy! Here’s a few:
1. The relevance
Ever heard the saying “The more things change, the more they stay the same”? This ran through my mind several times as I read.
Each time a character referenced the power of wealthy people to escape justice, I nodded my head. Yes, that still happens.
Each time a character expressed fear over pregnancy and childbirth, I nodded again. Yes, modern medicine has helped lessen the risk of childbearing . . . if one has access to it. Not everyone does. Lucie, Archer’s wife, Alisoun, and Magda, all gifted healers, know the dangers of pregnancy. Each time a pregnancy is mentioned (and it’s a reoccurring motif), it’s with trepidation. The healers make great use of their limited resources, all the while knowing their efforts might be too little, too late.
This theme hit me especially hard because of the high maternal death rate in my home state. Recent news reports have shown that a high percentage of women live more than two hours from a hospital and adequate healthcare during their pregnancies. Horrible, but true. It made the characters’ fears feel relevant and real for me, despite the differences in our time periods.
2. The historical research
Robb knows this time period. Her words immersed me in 14th century York, its culture, and its people. She brought it to life in rich detail. I was in awe of her ability to re-create a world of the past without bogging down the story with unnecessary facts or drawing undue attention to her methods. (Great historical fiction writers are rockstars, in my opinion.)
3. Relatable characters
I sympathized and cheered for them. (Well, some of them!) While the time period helps shape their worldviews, these characters’ personalities and relationships show that human nature hasn’t changed.
4. Chaucer
All the characters were great to meet. But having Geoffrey Chaucer (yes, that Chaucer!) as a character was too much fun for me as a literature major. All that gossipy, clever curiosity in his creative mind: it’s delicious fun to see Robb bring the famed author to life and use him in the story. Anyone who’s read The Canterbury Tales will love this.
5. And more . . .
Well-developed series characters who continually reveal new sides of their personalities. Conflicting agendas and suspicions. Tense atmosphere with a delightfully creepy edge. Evocative descriptions. A realistic, rich mystery.
A must-read for fans of historical mysteries.
Thanks to Severn House and Netgalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2019
A Conspiracy of Wolves by Candace Robb is Book 11 in the Owen Archer series. That means there are 10 previous books in this series. Ten! I’m shocked that it’s taken me this long to discover this series (I love historical fiction set in this era) but to be fair, the previous book was published back in 2008, so there has been a bit of a gap.
I’m going to assume that many of the characters in A Conspiracy of Wolves have already been introduced in previous books, but this book reads really well as a standalone. There’s enough of an introduction that I felt comfortable with the characters and their relationships. I was a little nervous when I first picked up the book because the first thing I saw was the FOUR pages listing all the characters in the book. I was worried it would be hard to keep track of everyone, but it honestly wasn’t.
I really like Captain Archer, the protagonist. He’s strong, handsome, smart and fair – the perfect man to base a book series on. But it’s the supporting characters that make this book even more memorable. From Owen’s equally smart and beautiful wife, Lucie, to the wise Riverwoman Magda, to real-life historical figure Geoffrey Chaucer, every character has something interesting to lend to the story.
When an author is really good at writing historical fiction, it shows. The dialogue, the setting, the details… it needs to feel realistic – so much so that you don’t even notice that you’ve been transported. You can tell that Robb knows her stuff – the book makes 14th century York come alive. But the author doesn’t bog the story down with lots of descriptions or explanations – it’s a perfect balance of giving you enough information to see imagine everything in your mind, but not too much that you feel like you’re being clubbed over the head with a history book.
This character-driven story includes murder, revenge, irrational fears and family loyalties and conspiracies. Normally when I read mysteries, a small part of my brain is busy trying to figure out who did it, but this one had me stumped for awhile and in the end, I think I was enjoying the story so much that I wasn’t trying that hard to figure out the ending.
* Thank you to Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours and the publisher, Severn House, for providing me with a advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
You can read my full spoiler-free review on my blog: https://www.bookfrolic.com/book-revie...
I’m going to assume that many of the characters in A Conspiracy of Wolves have already been introduced in previous books, but this book reads really well as a standalone. There’s enough of an introduction that I felt comfortable with the characters and their relationships. I was a little nervous when I first picked up the book because the first thing I saw was the FOUR pages listing all the characters in the book. I was worried it would be hard to keep track of everyone, but it honestly wasn’t.
I really like Captain Archer, the protagonist. He’s strong, handsome, smart and fair – the perfect man to base a book series on. But it’s the supporting characters that make this book even more memorable. From Owen’s equally smart and beautiful wife, Lucie, to the wise Riverwoman Magda, to real-life historical figure Geoffrey Chaucer, every character has something interesting to lend to the story.
When an author is really good at writing historical fiction, it shows. The dialogue, the setting, the details… it needs to feel realistic – so much so that you don’t even notice that you’ve been transported. You can tell that Robb knows her stuff – the book makes 14th century York come alive. But the author doesn’t bog the story down with lots of descriptions or explanations – it’s a perfect balance of giving you enough information to see imagine everything in your mind, but not too much that you feel like you’re being clubbed over the head with a history book.
This character-driven story includes murder, revenge, irrational fears and family loyalties and conspiracies. Normally when I read mysteries, a small part of my brain is busy trying to figure out who did it, but this one had me stumped for awhile and in the end, I think I was enjoying the story so much that I wasn’t trying that hard to figure out the ending.
* Thank you to Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours and the publisher, Severn House, for providing me with a advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
You can read my full spoiler-free review on my blog: https://www.bookfrolic.com/book-revie...
August 26, 2019
I have waited 11 years for my fellow one eyed 14thC archer, Owen Archer, to have a new adventure. It was too long; I have the other ten books and missed him greatly. In the series Candace Robb has built up a collection of very well rounded and believable characters and they fit into very creditable and exciting stories. In the intervening years I tried the author’s Margaret Kerr series, only to find all I wanted to do was give Kerr a decent shake and a good leg slapping – those Kerr books are some of the very few I have given away rather than add to my 2,500+ collection.
So, in view of the above; how did this book go? Had Robb lost her touch? Well it was back to the “unable to put the book down” scene of the other Owen Archer books: I read this within 24 hours and would have managed it in less had I not spent most of one morning at church.
This is again a well written, complex but easily read book with Archer now finding himself at a loose end following the death of his employer, John Thoresby, the Archbishop of York. He is being courted by the Mayor and Corporation of York to become Captain of Bailiffs and also by Edward, Prince of Wales, to be his spy on the powerful Neville family, whose power is set to increase with a family member due to take on the role of Archbishop of York. Whilst he is pondering just where his future lies there are a series of horrific murders in which, it would seem, a wolf and its handler are involved. I won’t go over the plot, others have done it already, but it is very clever.
Oh what joy, Owen Archer is not only back but Robb gives hints that she will be writing more about him, his friends and family: I can’t wait!
I am, as I implied, a one eyed archer (a blind left eye, same Owen) and re-enact the 14thC, which I have researched extensively. So, do I have any problems with the story? Only that on one occasion (see Page 204) Owen tucks his bow into his belt! Arrows tucked into a belt? Yes, though he has already slung a hunting quiver over his back, but a long bow tucked into his belt? That has to be a missed typo.
So, in view of the above; how did this book go? Had Robb lost her touch? Well it was back to the “unable to put the book down” scene of the other Owen Archer books: I read this within 24 hours and would have managed it in less had I not spent most of one morning at church.
This is again a well written, complex but easily read book with Archer now finding himself at a loose end following the death of his employer, John Thoresby, the Archbishop of York. He is being courted by the Mayor and Corporation of York to become Captain of Bailiffs and also by Edward, Prince of Wales, to be his spy on the powerful Neville family, whose power is set to increase with a family member due to take on the role of Archbishop of York. Whilst he is pondering just where his future lies there are a series of horrific murders in which, it would seem, a wolf and its handler are involved. I won’t go over the plot, others have done it already, but it is very clever.
Oh what joy, Owen Archer is not only back but Robb gives hints that she will be writing more about him, his friends and family: I can’t wait!
I am, as I implied, a one eyed archer (a blind left eye, same Owen) and re-enact the 14thC, which I have researched extensively. So, do I have any problems with the story? Only that on one occasion (see Page 204) Owen tucks his bow into his belt! Arrows tucked into a belt? Yes, though he has already slung a hunting quiver over his back, but a long bow tucked into his belt? That has to be a missed typo.
January 27, 2024
This very entertaining medieval mystery is the 11th volume of the wonderful "Owen Archer" series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find some maps of Owen archer's York, as well as a Dramatis Personae and not to forget two epigraphs, while at the end you'll notice an Author's Note with very informative documentation concerning this period of history.
Storytelling is excellent, all characters are very believable and lifelike in their dealings with life and death, while the atmosphere of York and it surroundings in the 14th Century comes superbly off the pages.
The book starts off in the Autumn of the year, AD1374, after the death of Archbishop John Thoresby, and with Owen Archer having a restless period of his own, but he needs to come into action again when Hoban Swann, member of one of York's most prominent families is found murdered.
This tragic death is closely followed by his father, Bartolf Swann, and both are committed according to gossip and rumours by wolves, but Owen Archer will know better when he has examined both victims, and judged them to be killed by a human hand.
In the meantime a man called, Crispin Poole, seeks Alisoun's help in treating his injured arm after being attacked, but presses on Alisoun to keep his visit a secret out of fear for both.
What is to follow is an exciting and gripping story, filled with political intrigue and family feuds, and in which Owen Archer and his fellow fighting men, his wife Lucie Wilton and son Jasper, and the City Bailiff George Hempe and his men will be confronted by a pack of humans acting as wolves, and who are determined to avenge a murder that happened 20 years ago, but they will be thwarted by Owen Archer and his collective of men and be brought to justice in the end.
Very much recommended, for this is another very exciting addition to this great series, and that's why I like to call this latest episode: "An Intriguing Conspiracy"!
At the beginning of the book you'll find some maps of Owen archer's York, as well as a Dramatis Personae and not to forget two epigraphs, while at the end you'll notice an Author's Note with very informative documentation concerning this period of history.
Storytelling is excellent, all characters are very believable and lifelike in their dealings with life and death, while the atmosphere of York and it surroundings in the 14th Century comes superbly off the pages.
The book starts off in the Autumn of the year, AD1374, after the death of Archbishop John Thoresby, and with Owen Archer having a restless period of his own, but he needs to come into action again when Hoban Swann, member of one of York's most prominent families is found murdered.
This tragic death is closely followed by his father, Bartolf Swann, and both are committed according to gossip and rumours by wolves, but Owen Archer will know better when he has examined both victims, and judged them to be killed by a human hand.
In the meantime a man called, Crispin Poole, seeks Alisoun's help in treating his injured arm after being attacked, but presses on Alisoun to keep his visit a secret out of fear for both.
What is to follow is an exciting and gripping story, filled with political intrigue and family feuds, and in which Owen Archer and his fellow fighting men, his wife Lucie Wilton and son Jasper, and the City Bailiff George Hempe and his men will be confronted by a pack of humans acting as wolves, and who are determined to avenge a murder that happened 20 years ago, but they will be thwarted by Owen Archer and his collective of men and be brought to justice in the end.
Very much recommended, for this is another very exciting addition to this great series, and that's why I like to call this latest episode: "An Intriguing Conspiracy"!
June 29, 2019
Mysteries set in another time period have their own allure. Murder and murderer have never been limited to time or place, and the reasons for murder vary and remain the same. The old axiom for motives: "love, lust, lucre, loathing" can incorporate a longer list that fit somewhere in sub-topics under those four or combinations thereof.
For those of us who love historical mysteries, the motives are also related to societal norms and events. Interest also comes from the characters tasked with solving the murders and the methods employed long before all of the technology present- day investigators have at their disposal.
Candace Robb's excellent mysteries are set in the late Middle Ages in the time of Geoffrey Chaucer and John of Gaunt.
After the death of John Thoresby, Archbishop of York, Owen Archer finds himself at a crossroads. Despite the frequent difficulties and differences of opinion Owen experienced with his late patron, Owen had gained respect and affection for the man. Now, he has decisions to make about the future for himself and his family.
As usual, an engaging mystery and well-developed characters backed by excellent research.
I love this series.
Read in April. Blog review scheduled for July 21.
NetGalley/Severn House
Medieval Mystery. Aug. 1, 2019. Print length: 256 pages.
For those of us who love historical mysteries, the motives are also related to societal norms and events. Interest also comes from the characters tasked with solving the murders and the methods employed long before all of the technology present- day investigators have at their disposal.
Candace Robb's excellent mysteries are set in the late Middle Ages in the time of Geoffrey Chaucer and John of Gaunt.
After the death of John Thoresby, Archbishop of York, Owen Archer finds himself at a crossroads. Despite the frequent difficulties and differences of opinion Owen experienced with his late patron, Owen had gained respect and affection for the man. Now, he has decisions to make about the future for himself and his family.
As usual, an engaging mystery and well-developed characters backed by excellent research.
I love this series.
Read in April. Blog review scheduled for July 21.
NetGalley/Severn House
Medieval Mystery. Aug. 1, 2019. Print length: 256 pages.
July 28, 2019
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A rumor runs around the city, that vicious wolves are lurking in the woods. This is, after all, who people think the killer of the coroner's son is. But Owen Archer has a different opinion. Something wild has bitten the man, that's undeniable. But it's not what killed the young man. The perpetrator is a human. And they will soon strike again.
Conspiracy of Wolves is the latest addition to the gripping series of Owen Archer mysteries. Set in medieval York, the story follows Owen Archer's attempts to solve the most recent mystery: the death of the coroner's son. But things aren't straightforward at all. Soon it will become apparent that people keep secrets. With the help of his intelligent apothecary wife, Archer is determined to come to the end of this mystery, putting a stop to the killings.
Once again Candace Robb manages to create an attention-grasping mystery. The reader gets to revisit the characters they've come to know so well, and the plot doesn't disappoint. The story is well written and the mystery not easily solvable: all in all, what a reader wants from their mystery book!
Although part of a series, Conspiracy of Wolves can be read perfectly well as a stand-alone story, so don;t be reluctant to give it a try!
A rumor runs around the city, that vicious wolves are lurking in the woods. This is, after all, who people think the killer of the coroner's son is. But Owen Archer has a different opinion. Something wild has bitten the man, that's undeniable. But it's not what killed the young man. The perpetrator is a human. And they will soon strike again.
Conspiracy of Wolves is the latest addition to the gripping series of Owen Archer mysteries. Set in medieval York, the story follows Owen Archer's attempts to solve the most recent mystery: the death of the coroner's son. But things aren't straightforward at all. Soon it will become apparent that people keep secrets. With the help of his intelligent apothecary wife, Archer is determined to come to the end of this mystery, putting a stop to the killings.
Once again Candace Robb manages to create an attention-grasping mystery. The reader gets to revisit the characters they've come to know so well, and the plot doesn't disappoint. The story is well written and the mystery not easily solvable: all in all, what a reader wants from their mystery book!
Although part of a series, Conspiracy of Wolves can be read perfectly well as a stand-alone story, so don;t be reluctant to give it a try!
March 18, 2020
It has been 12 years since the last book in this series was published. So when I saw this book at the library it took me awhile to realize that it was a continuation of a series that I had read and enjoyed. Then when I started reading it, it took me another little while to get reacquainted with the characters and the situation. And it is a fascinating period of time and a wonderful cast of characters! Owen Archer has been a soldier and a spy. But his patron, the real-life Archbishop Thoresby of York, has died and Archer must decide between two career paths: a position with Prince Edward (son of King Edward III) or head bailiff of York. Meanwhile he is asked to lead the investigation into the deaths of two of York's leading citizens. His heart is in York where he lives with his wife Lucie, an apothecary, and their children. But there are outside influences from royalty and the leading Northern families that will make his career decision difficult. The author really knows this time period (the 14th century). She mixes a few historical people into her cast of fictional characters while bringing a lot of verisimilitude to the small details of daily life. It is a genre - historical mystery - that I really enjoy.
August 1, 2019
Owen Archer's employer, John Thoresby, has died. He is now torn between working for the city of York or being employed directly by Prince Edward. There are advantages and disadvantages to both positions. Meanwhile, bodies are turning up and the citizens of York are talking about wolves roaming the streets of the city. It has been years since wolves were even seen in the forest outside the city. Owen is also trying to keep the prominent families of York happy, but when a body is found with the throat torn out, followed closely by a second, things are getting ugly. Geoffrey Chaucer is in the city on a mission from London, so he teams up with Owen to solve the murders. Conspiracies are being hatched all over York. It has been a long time since I read an Owen Archer book, I am glad to pick this up from Netgalley. The research in this series is perfect, creating a well-crafted historical mystery.
June 23, 2019
Complex and Amazing
I do not alwAys follow everything in Me Robb's books...She is so infinitely scholarly...but I always get the main points of her myriad stories...I always feel smarter after reading the books! I am so glad she revisits these marvelous characters! I have missed them. I'm my humble opinion she writes better than anyone else in this genre. I may have to revisit some reviews I have written in the past to reduce the number of stars I have awarded them to be sure folks see that Candace Robb's books are the very best...I would assign this book and her others more I the 10 star range! So very glad to see Owen Archer , Lucie, Magda and all the other main characters back again...I hope there will be many, many more. This world she emulated and creates is so real, so palpable...the characters so compelling and interesting...I simply love These books!!!
I do not alwAys follow everything in Me Robb's books...She is so infinitely scholarly...but I always get the main points of her myriad stories...I always feel smarter after reading the books! I am so glad she revisits these marvelous characters! I have missed them. I'm my humble opinion she writes better than anyone else in this genre. I may have to revisit some reviews I have written in the past to reduce the number of stars I have awarded them to be sure folks see that Candace Robb's books are the very best...I would assign this book and her others more I the 10 star range! So very glad to see Owen Archer , Lucie, Magda and all the other main characters back again...I hope there will be many, many more. This world she emulated and creates is so real, so palpable...the characters so compelling and interesting...I simply love These books!!!
July 22, 2019
This was my first book in this series and while I occasionally felt a little lost about things mentioned from previous books, that didn't prevent me from following the characters here and enjoying the plot. I liked how well Owen worked with others- including his wife- to solve the case. He was clearly a man who had experience with diplomacy and tact since he was dealing with murders and high-ranking town officials and managed not to strangle anyone himself! The settings were well written, nothing overly described to get in the way of the plot but you still felt comfortable in the York Owen travelled through, as well as the country. This was a well-done book and I would definitely read others in the series in the future.
August 14, 2019
This is the first book of the series that I've read, and it took me a while to click with the characters and work out the 'normal' band of characters, and those who were involved in the conspiracy.
I imagine that fans of the series would not have had the same problems and would have been able to leap right in.
The reimagining of York is detailed and enjoyable and the solving of the murder(s) is well done, even if the author relies a little too much on the 'I can't tell you now, but I'll tell you later,' scenario to build tension.
Overall, an enjoyable read. Not perhaps as easy to jump in and out of the world of Owen Archer as other medieval mysteries, but I will certainly be looking for some of the earlier books now.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my review copy.
I imagine that fans of the series would not have had the same problems and would have been able to leap right in.
The reimagining of York is detailed and enjoyable and the solving of the murder(s) is well done, even if the author relies a little too much on the 'I can't tell you now, but I'll tell you later,' scenario to build tension.
Overall, an enjoyable read. Not perhaps as easy to jump in and out of the world of Owen Archer as other medieval mysteries, but I will certainly be looking for some of the earlier books now.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my review copy.
October 13, 2022
Another well-written tale in this series. It seems like a group of people are going around murdering members of two different families. It is up to the intrepid Owen Archer to figure out who and why before even more people get killed, all while trying to decide if he wants to become the captain of the bailiffs for York or the chief spy for King Edward. This book bring wife Lucie's skills and intelligence into the mix while the mystical healer Magda Digby tries to keep Owen on track. This was a complex story with a broad cast of characters and victims. I thought the conclusion was satisfying but a bit convoluted. I also liked that the future of Owen Archer is bright will some new characters to interact with in future books.
July 11, 2024
Really, I could have given this book 5 stars except I didn’t gobble it down as I did books I’ve read more recently. Owen Archer is a really fascinating protagonist; he has strong family ties in York but still feels and behaves like an outsider, even this far into the series. I think it works because otherwise, he would become too torn between his responsibilities to the city and people of York, and the safety of his family. This story has a very interesting twist WRT who the killer(s) are but I won’t go into it because, you know, spoiler. A man and a huge black dog are terrorizing a number of leading merchant families in York, and it seems each family member is targeted for death unless Owen can figure out what’s going on.
July 30, 2019
I'd not read the earlier books in this series but I now know what I was missing- an interesting medieval mystery set in 14th century York. Owen Archer is at loose ends after the death of John Thorseby, the Archbishop of York but then..Hoban Swann is found with his throat ripped open. While conventional wisdom states that he was killed by wolves, Archer is not so sure. And then there's another murder. He's got some politics to deal with, given there's a new Archbishop but wait- Chaucer is in town, working for Prince Edward and the two of them team up. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A quick and entertaining read.
May 2, 2020
Wonderful I love these stories , it's hard to stop reading what's nextx
The cruelty to animals jars a bit but then I realise. It's a different time, and the poor children,then it's the kindness of the poor people there believe in God, there willingness to help each other. And l must admit I like the fights and the verbal exchanges especially between archer and Thoresby. The love between archer and Lucy is exciting and beautiful, magna is brilliant somebody I would like to meet. Any road that's what I feel though I'm not good at expressing it. Can't spell so good so some words don't say it all
The cruelty to animals jars a bit but then I realise. It's a different time, and the poor children,then it's the kindness of the poor people there believe in God, there willingness to help each other. And l must admit I like the fights and the verbal exchanges especially between archer and Thoresby. The love between archer and Lucy is exciting and beautiful, magna is brilliant somebody I would like to meet. Any road that's what I feel though I'm not good at expressing it. Can't spell so good so some words don't say it all
July 9, 2019
1374 and in the woods near York Hoban Swann, son of Bartolf Swann the coroner, has been found dead. Swann approaches Owen Archer to investigate. Rumours spread that the killing was done by wolves but Archer deems otherwise. But will this be the end of the killing and what could the possible motive be.
Though I have read a few of the books in the series previously, it can easily be read as a standalone story.
A well-plotted, well-written mystery with as you would expect well-developed characters, most of which are likeable.
A NetGalley Book
Though I have read a few of the books in the series previously, it can easily be read as a standalone story.
A well-plotted, well-written mystery with as you would expect well-developed characters, most of which are likeable.
A NetGalley Book
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