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Jake Conley #1
Elfrid's Hole
After aspiring novelist Jake Conley regains consciousness from a coma, he discovers he’s affected by synaesthesia, and that his now cross-wired brain endows him with heightened psychic powers.
Jake’s research on the Northumbrian King Aldfrith takes him to Elfrid’s Hole in North Yorkshire, where - as legend relates - the king sheltered after a bloody battle. What Jake doesn't realize is that his investigation has unleashed a series of deadly paranormal events, in which Jake himself becomes the prime suspect.
Fighting to clear his name and overcome the hostility of Detective Inspector Mark Shaw, can Jake follow through - and bring peace to a soul tormented by over a thousand years?
Jake’s research on the Northumbrian King Aldfrith takes him to Elfrid’s Hole in North Yorkshire, where - as legend relates - the king sheltered after a bloody battle. What Jake doesn't realize is that his investigation has unleashed a series of deadly paranormal events, in which Jake himself becomes the prime suspect.
Fighting to clear his name and overcome the hostility of Detective Inspector Mark Shaw, can Jake follow through - and bring peace to a soul tormented by over a thousand years?
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 10, 2019
About the author
John Broughton
118 books23 followersJohn Broughton was born in Cleethorpes in Lincolnshire, studied at the local grammar school and went on to take an honours degree in Medieval and Modern History at the University of Nottingham, where he also studied Archaeology.
John retired in January 2014 and chose the period that fascinates him most – the Anglo-Saxon period – as the setting for his first historical novel. Since then, he has had 28 novels published by Next Chapter Publishing. Most are historical novels, but he also writes murder mysteries, fantasy and sci-fi.
John retired in January 2014 and chose the period that fascinates him most – the Anglo-Saxon period – as the setting for his first historical novel. Since then, he has had 28 novels published by Next Chapter Publishing. Most are historical novels, but he also writes murder mysteries, fantasy and sci-fi.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 4, 2021
Elfrid’s hole :
This is the second novel I have read by this talented author. I love the fact that I can enjoy the storyline and learn something about our history at the same time, from a qualified historian.
In this novel, our main character, Jake Conley, is an aspiring author who is involved in a car accident which makes his brain ‘evolve`. He can see, smell and sense things which he could never do before.
Jake is an avid historian who is intrigued by the historical Northumbrian, 8th-century king Aldfrith, and becomes intrigued to find his final resting place. Each time he does research or discovers something vital, his head throbs, showing him that he is on the right path to discovering something important.
Unfortunately for Jake, the further he investigates, the more trouble he gets himself into. A ghostly warrior is bent on killing him, the villagers want to drive Jake out of the town, and the local police detective is bent on arresting him for something he didn’t do.
This is a well-written novel that should appeal to historians and ghost-hunters alike. Try it. You won’t be disappointed.
This is the second novel I have read by this talented author. I love the fact that I can enjoy the storyline and learn something about our history at the same time, from a qualified historian.
In this novel, our main character, Jake Conley, is an aspiring author who is involved in a car accident which makes his brain ‘evolve`. He can see, smell and sense things which he could never do before.
Jake is an avid historian who is intrigued by the historical Northumbrian, 8th-century king Aldfrith, and becomes intrigued to find his final resting place. Each time he does research or discovers something vital, his head throbs, showing him that he is on the right path to discovering something important.
Unfortunately for Jake, the further he investigates, the more trouble he gets himself into. A ghostly warrior is bent on killing him, the villagers want to drive Jake out of the town, and the local police detective is bent on arresting him for something he didn’t do.
This is a well-written novel that should appeal to historians and ghost-hunters alike. Try it. You won’t be disappointed.
November 3, 2019
“It started with a battle in 705 AD…” are the words of explanation to a bemused police inspector and an archbishop.
I read this mystery over Halloween, reputedly the time of ghosts and ghoulish happenings and, as the wind howled outside in a storm that hit the south coast, bringing trees down and stirring up the sea, it felt timely.
Our hero, Jake Conley, is a likeable, old-fashioned young man – an aspiring author with a deep interest in history. He suffers in a car accident which, in his own words, causes his brain to be “cross-wired.” The action takes place in North Yorkshire (an area I know well, because my brother lives on the moors, near Pickering and Thornton-le-Dale – so that made me doubly interested. (Remind me to look over my shoulder next time I go for a walk there). Jake is fascinated by the history of Aldfrith, a Northumbrian King, and is bent on discovering where he might be buried. He is warned by villagers to keep away from Sir Charles Grotto during research for his novel, because it is an evil place with a history. But our hero is curious; he does not listen and so, the adventure begins.
We are in the knowledgeable hands of an author who studied Mediaeval and Modern History (and archaeology as subsidiary) at Nottingham University, so I learned a lot from this story – even if the paranormal activity stretched my imagination… but that is one of the reasons I love to read: to be taken out of my comfort zone and to learn. And, as the priest, whom Jake consults during his search for Aldfrith, says: “Son, this is a battle the Church has been fighting for centuries, It’s clearly stated in John 5:19. We know that we are of God, and that the whole world lies in the power of the evil one…”
So, who am I to argue? In one of his author interviews, John Broughton tells us he has seen a ghost.
All kinds of snippets and characters from around the seventh century crop up in Broughton’s book: the Picts, the battle of Ebberston, Osred, Eadwulf, Aldfrith/Alfrid/Elfrid, William of Malmesbury, King Edwin, all milling about the ancient place called Driffelda (see the present day village of Little Driffield) …and it was fascinating to refer to Wikipaedia and see that they were all real, who in my ignorance I knew nothing about.
The book is very well written, with romance, suspense and humour laced into the narrative. I found the style like a mixture of a Midsomer Murder and an old-fashioned Sherlock Holmes and I look forward to the further adventures of Jake Conley. I believe there are three more. Should I wait until next Halloween? I probably can’t…
January 22, 2022
An entertaining book, one that even when deeply fails in providing good dialogue and three-dimensional characters, still manages to keep your attention.
In my case, this was mostly due to the way in which the mix of medieval history and local folklore are done; it's obvious that the author knows his subject.
But I reeeeeeeeeeeeeealy didn't like Jack which is a big red flag for me. And I'm still wondering why any woman would fall for him. The man is a jerk :/
I don't think I'll be reading more books in this series.
In my case, this was mostly due to the way in which the mix of medieval history and local folklore are done; it's obvious that the author knows his subject.
But I reeeeeeeeeeeeeealy didn't like Jack which is a big red flag for me. And I'm still wondering why any woman would fall for him. The man is a jerk :/
I don't think I'll be reading more books in this series.
October 18, 2022
I enjoyed this book! It was fun to read a story that was set in a modern, very relatable world, but also featured historical and supernatural flavors.
The story concerns a man, Jake, who, due to a head injury has become hyper sensitive to the supernatural, and the setting — the English countryside — with its long history of invasions, wars and warriors presents no shortage of opportunities for our protagonist to engage with unsettled spirits.
The author’s knowledge of historical research and archeology is well presented here, in a way that enhances the story, not in an “info-dump” type of way. Segments of an 18th century mystery are illustrated really well, with very appropriate sounding language.
This is a great afternoon page turner.
The story concerns a man, Jake, who, due to a head injury has become hyper sensitive to the supernatural, and the setting — the English countryside — with its long history of invasions, wars and warriors presents no shortage of opportunities for our protagonist to engage with unsettled spirits.
The author’s knowledge of historical research and archeology is well presented here, in a way that enhances the story, not in an “info-dump” type of way. Segments of an 18th century mystery are illustrated really well, with very appropriate sounding language.
This is a great afternoon page turner.
November 12, 2019
It’s the age-old paradox of all horror stories: our hero is warned ‘don’t go there’ – so of course he goes there. In this case it is to Aldfrith’s Hole, a grotto supposedly connected to the 8th Century Northumbrian king killed in battle nearby. And what does our hero get for his foolhardiness’? He is pursued by the ghost of an angry Anglo-Saxon warrior who has the power to follow him wherever he goes. And if you think that ghosts are all spirit and can’t harm you, think again: several grisly murders ensue! John Broughton weaves a terrifying tale with great skill and complete credibility.
January 23, 2022
This enthralling tale really showcases the author’s incredible knowledge of both the Anglo-Saxon period & rural England. When protagonist Jake Conley finds himself experiencing more than the old spooky moment after an accident, he embarks on a quest to find the final resting place of King Aldfrith of Northumbria & encounters ghoulish soldiers in his wake. Full of larger than life characters & disbelieving authorities, who are convinced that Jake is the real felon, this is a true adventure that throws up surprises in every chapter.
March 6, 2022
The story was wonderful, but the writing was awkward. Some events needed more explanation or could have been left out without damaging the story.
May 17, 2022
My Opinion:
ABSURD.
RIDICULOUS.
BORING.
STOOPID.
DUMM.
PREDICTABLE.
Please make it stop ??????????
ETC.
ETC.
ETC.
.
ABSURD.
RIDICULOUS.
BORING.
STOOPID.
DUMM.
PREDICTABLE.
Please make it stop ??????????
ETC.
ETC.
ETC.
.
May 28, 2021
I've been staring at my computer screen for far too long, beginning and erasing this review. This alone should speak to the fact that my views of the unfortunately titled Elfird's Hole (sorry, I'm one of those adults who still has the over-all sense of humor of a 12 year old!) are surprisingly complex - not something I was expecting when I picked this book up on a whim a few days ago (it was the title, I won't lie).
First, lets start out with the negatives - because I not only like to end on a high note, but also because they do not outweigh the positives, mostly. But we'll get to that. So, the actual prose of the story is generally mediocre, with loosely fleshed out characters, scene transitions that are nonexistant and some unbelievable elements (and I'm not speaking of the ghost. That, to me mind, seems perfectly reasonable!). For some reason, every female character in the book goes into a major swoon for our lead character, despite him being, to be honest, kind of a sarcastic jerk. Yes, the mood swings are explained by the injury he sustained in the opening pages, but this is also a man who's main response to the death of a loved one is to worry about proving his own innocence (which is fair) but is never shown to actually mourn her in the least. So what do they all see in him? I don't know - largely because it's never shown, save for the fact that he apparently has some really nice pecs.
Okay, negatives out of the way, let's look at the positives. Because, despite everything I just said, I actually couldn't put this book down - and that's not much of an exaggeration. I've looked up the biography of Mr. Broughton and wasn't shocked to learn that he was trained in Medieval History and also spent time on archeological digs. Even without the confirmation, I would have guessed this. He actually rather masterfully blends the medieval history and local folklore into his narrative - to the point that I actually had to do some research myself to figure out where fiction began to take over for fact. Also, and I can't believe I'm typing these words, but the archival research scenes were not only spot on, they were rather gripping (Hey, I'm a fellow historian. You spend enough time in archives yourself, and research scenes can seem gripping!). Honestly, if this book did nothing else, it excited in me a fascination with Saxon England and reawakened an interest in the history of Northumbria. In fact, once this damned lockdown ends, I'd love nothing more than to travel down to Edderston and check out Elfrid's Hole itself and pick up supper at the pub described in the book (because both actually exist!).
And perhaps my critques early on were a bit harsh. Elfrid's Hole exists within the genre of paperback adventures that one can move through quite quickly and easily - it would sit quite happily on a shelf next to the Destroyer series or something by Clive Custler I imagine. One doesn't go to these works for in-depth character analysis or even realistic depictions of how people would react to some fairly outlandish situations. You read them because they're fun. And Elfrid's Hole is certainly that: it's fun (like, seriously, a LOT of fun.) and its also surprisingly informative. And furthermore, Mr. Broughton himself comes off in his biography as a charming and engaging fellow. So, yes, some nitpicks aside, even some pretty substantive ones, I'm the last person who'd going to get up on a literary high horse here. After all, I've already bought the next one in the series!
Okay, but seriously, what does every woman in the story see in Jake Conley?
First, lets start out with the negatives - because I not only like to end on a high note, but also because they do not outweigh the positives, mostly. But we'll get to that. So, the actual prose of the story is generally mediocre, with loosely fleshed out characters, scene transitions that are nonexistant and some unbelievable elements (and I'm not speaking of the ghost. That, to me mind, seems perfectly reasonable!). For some reason, every female character in the book goes into a major swoon for our lead character, despite him being, to be honest, kind of a sarcastic jerk. Yes, the mood swings are explained by the injury he sustained in the opening pages, but this is also a man who's main response to the death of a loved one is to worry about proving his own innocence (which is fair) but is never shown to actually mourn her in the least. So what do they all see in him? I don't know - largely because it's never shown, save for the fact that he apparently has some really nice pecs.
Okay, negatives out of the way, let's look at the positives. Because, despite everything I just said, I actually couldn't put this book down - and that's not much of an exaggeration. I've looked up the biography of Mr. Broughton and wasn't shocked to learn that he was trained in Medieval History and also spent time on archeological digs. Even without the confirmation, I would have guessed this. He actually rather masterfully blends the medieval history and local folklore into his narrative - to the point that I actually had to do some research myself to figure out where fiction began to take over for fact. Also, and I can't believe I'm typing these words, but the archival research scenes were not only spot on, they were rather gripping (Hey, I'm a fellow historian. You spend enough time in archives yourself, and research scenes can seem gripping!). Honestly, if this book did nothing else, it excited in me a fascination with Saxon England and reawakened an interest in the history of Northumbria. In fact, once this damned lockdown ends, I'd love nothing more than to travel down to Edderston and check out Elfrid's Hole itself and pick up supper at the pub described in the book (because both actually exist!).
And perhaps my critques early on were a bit harsh. Elfrid's Hole exists within the genre of paperback adventures that one can move through quite quickly and easily - it would sit quite happily on a shelf next to the Destroyer series or something by Clive Custler I imagine. One doesn't go to these works for in-depth character analysis or even realistic depictions of how people would react to some fairly outlandish situations. You read them because they're fun. And Elfrid's Hole is certainly that: it's fun (like, seriously, a LOT of fun.) and its also surprisingly informative. And furthermore, Mr. Broughton himself comes off in his biography as a charming and engaging fellow. So, yes, some nitpicks aside, even some pretty substantive ones, I'm the last person who'd going to get up on a literary high horse here. After all, I've already bought the next one in the series!
Okay, but seriously, what does every woman in the story see in Jake Conley?
September 4, 2023
John Broughton’s ‘Elfrid’s Hole’ is a well written, modern ghost story as far as the plot goes. The tale is original and well researched, something easy to detect from the tremendous detail about Anglo-Saxon times in the north of England. Unfortunately, at least for me, I was disappointed by two aspects of the novel which did tend to spoil it.
The first was related to the protagonist’s accident which, after a two-month coma, left him with synesthesia. In case anyone reading this review is unaware of what this is, a brief explanation would be an alteration of the brain’s method of processing sensory input, where said input is handled by more than one of the senses. To make this clearer, many synesthetes would listen to a musical note yet see it as a color. This is a fascinating subject and one which was crucial to the protagonist’s ability to experience the ghost, although no coherent explanation of why this should be so was proffered. What’s more, several other characters were able to see and smell the phantom figure as the story progressed and they did not have this brain condition. Given one of the tale`s major plot points, the police detective who believed the protagonist was inventing the whole ghost story to cover a murder he had committed who then, post-apparition, became a firm supporter of the ghost theory, hinged on this, the result was an unsatisfactory plot hole.
Second, I also found the almost complete lack of character development led to shallow, two-dimensional figures whose actions lacked any credibility due to this lack of depth. Curiously, the one character who did have a little more profundity to his existence was, not the protagonist as you might expect, but the aforementioned policeman.
These are my observations after reading the novel and they have affected my rating of what could otherwise have been a standout story.
The first was related to the protagonist’s accident which, after a two-month coma, left him with synesthesia. In case anyone reading this review is unaware of what this is, a brief explanation would be an alteration of the brain’s method of processing sensory input, where said input is handled by more than one of the senses. To make this clearer, many synesthetes would listen to a musical note yet see it as a color. This is a fascinating subject and one which was crucial to the protagonist’s ability to experience the ghost, although no coherent explanation of why this should be so was proffered. What’s more, several other characters were able to see and smell the phantom figure as the story progressed and they did not have this brain condition. Given one of the tale`s major plot points, the police detective who believed the protagonist was inventing the whole ghost story to cover a murder he had committed who then, post-apparition, became a firm supporter of the ghost theory, hinged on this, the result was an unsatisfactory plot hole.
Second, I also found the almost complete lack of character development led to shallow, two-dimensional figures whose actions lacked any credibility due to this lack of depth. Curiously, the one character who did have a little more profundity to his existence was, not the protagonist as you might expect, but the aforementioned policeman.
These are my observations after reading the novel and they have affected my rating of what could otherwise have been a standout story.
April 16, 2021
5.0 out of 5 stars
The mad axeman cometh!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 16 April 2021
Having previously read four of John Broughton's historical novels I was interested to see his first Jake Conley, paranormal investigator novel. Elfrid's Hole was definitely equal in quality to his earlier work. Jake Conley, having been seriously injured in a road traffic accident, recovers but appears to have become sensitive to certain paranormal activities.
When he decides to write a novel based on the life of King Alfrid, little does he anticipate the intrigue and the terror he is about to unleash.
Before we know it, Jake is arrested and charged with the murder of his fiancée and a ghostly and murderous apparition of an axe-wielding Saxon warrior appears from a cave known as 'Elfrid's Hole' near the Yorkshire village of Ebberston.
When a young policeman is killed the sceptical police inspector suspects Jake of another murder, but how can he prove the killer is a ghost.
Add a hostile group of villagers who refuse to help Jake, and in fact attempt to run him out of town and the scene is set for what becomes a tumultuous ending to a great story. No spoilers from me. You really must read this book to find out what happens, as Jake tries to clear his name as the attacks by the ghostly apparition continue. I loved it!
The mad axeman cometh!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 16 April 2021
Having previously read four of John Broughton's historical novels I was interested to see his first Jake Conley, paranormal investigator novel. Elfrid's Hole was definitely equal in quality to his earlier work. Jake Conley, having been seriously injured in a road traffic accident, recovers but appears to have become sensitive to certain paranormal activities.
When he decides to write a novel based on the life of King Alfrid, little does he anticipate the intrigue and the terror he is about to unleash.
Before we know it, Jake is arrested and charged with the murder of his fiancée and a ghostly and murderous apparition of an axe-wielding Saxon warrior appears from a cave known as 'Elfrid's Hole' near the Yorkshire village of Ebberston.
When a young policeman is killed the sceptical police inspector suspects Jake of another murder, but how can he prove the killer is a ghost.
Add a hostile group of villagers who refuse to help Jake, and in fact attempt to run him out of town and the scene is set for what becomes a tumultuous ending to a great story. No spoilers from me. You really must read this book to find out what happens, as Jake tries to clear his name as the attacks by the ghostly apparition continue. I loved it!
August 13, 2025
Elfrid's Hole, the first book in the Jake Conley series, by historical fiction writer - John Broughton, is an historical mystery with a psychic twist. The main character, Jake Conley, a pretty normal guy overall, experiences a critical accident, from which he recovers, but a changed man - one who eventually comes to realize that his perception of the world has changed. Labelled a synesthete, someone who has extremely heightened perceptions, and in Jake's case, experiences both physical and psychic phenomena at times, starts him on a mysterious and thrilling journey as he investigates an ancient cave associated with an historical figure, a battle that occurred hundreds of years earlier, and what he finds and the specter that soon haunts him and leaves a trail of blood in its wake, forcing Jake to dig in his heels and find the truth, truth that will not only set history straight but deal with his new evil adversary, one who seems intent on destroying him if not dealt with. I loved the premise of this book. Jake's character is both unassuming, principled and someone I could identify with, and the story is very well told - descriptive, colorful and intriguing. I look forward to reading more in the series.
October 19, 2023
I really enjoyed Elfrid's Hole. Archaeological fiction is a genre I really enjoy. I liked the main character and his interest in old churches and history and the book introduced me to an Anglo saxon king I knew very little about and I looked up lots more about him and his background.
I enjoyed the mystery surrounded Elfrid's Hole and the malevolent anglo saxon warrior spirit reminded me alot of the ghost stories of M R James, who when disturbed often follow the person who disturbed them home.
The author is obviously very knowledgeable about this period of history and has a great curiosity about the myths and legends of the British Isles. I will definitely be reading some more of his books including more adventures with Jake Conley.
I enjoyed the mystery surrounded Elfrid's Hole and the malevolent anglo saxon warrior spirit reminded me alot of the ghost stories of M R James, who when disturbed often follow the person who disturbed them home.
The author is obviously very knowledgeable about this period of history and has a great curiosity about the myths and legends of the British Isles. I will definitely be reading some more of his books including more adventures with Jake Conley.
May 7, 2025
A “hole” waste of time.
This book started out interestingly enough but quickly devolved into the Keystone Cops vs a cartoon hero prince. How many times can our main character be falsely accused and imprisoned on bogus charges? Read and find out! Or don’t, because it was 3 times. How quickly can our swoon-worthy main man get over the death of his fiancé and marry a woman he doesn’t know? Read and find out! Or don’t, because it was mere weeks. I know there is more in this series but I will not be experiencing it. Good luck to this author in his future endeavors, he had good ideas but they just didn’t pan out.
This book started out interestingly enough but quickly devolved into the Keystone Cops vs a cartoon hero prince. How many times can our main character be falsely accused and imprisoned on bogus charges? Read and find out! Or don’t, because it was 3 times. How quickly can our swoon-worthy main man get over the death of his fiancé and marry a woman he doesn’t know? Read and find out! Or don’t, because it was mere weeks. I know there is more in this series but I will not be experiencing it. Good luck to this author in his future endeavors, he had good ideas but they just didn’t pan out.
November 1, 2019
Perfect for Hallowe'en - a really spooky time-slip. John Broughton has produced a fast-paced adventure with a raft of interesting characters and a setting in one of my favourite parts of the country, the Yorkshire Wolds. Jake, the hero, is someone I look forward to getting to know in future books in this series. I love the mix of history and modern-day. It makes for an accessible read but one where you are learning something new - always a good mixture.
October 18, 2021
Legends come to life or is it something more? Recovering from a coma and headed to North Yorkshire, Jake Conley knows people think the accident may have done some brain damage. Finding a place called Elfrid's Hole, Jake knows what he is seeing is real and there's a danger from the past that haunts the place. This is a well-written story that delves into the paranormal and the supernatural in a way readers can enjoy.
April 11, 2022
Archeology, ghosts and murder.
If you liked the Ruth Galloway series by Elly Griffiths you might like this. An enjoyable mystery in Yorkshire. Some of the language seems a little old fashioned.
If you liked the Ruth Galloway series by Elly Griffiths you might like this. An enjoyable mystery in Yorkshire. Some of the language seems a little old fashioned.
November 30, 2023
A nice change from the usual mystery
This is my first time reading a medieval mystery book. It was great how he intertwined past and present. If it weren't so deadly, I wouldn't mind investigating the cave
This is my first time reading a medieval mystery book. It was great how he intertwined past and present. If it weren't so deadly, I wouldn't mind investigating the cave
Read
November 23, 2024Quite a gripping read
This story took a while to catch on to,but once the characters were identified it started to take shape. Dissapoined when it ended because I wanted to keep reading. Overall a good book.
This story took a while to catch on to,but once the characters were identified it started to take shape. Dissapoined when it ended because I wanted to keep reading. Overall a good book.
July 19, 2022
DNF
Could not finish this book. The MC wasn't very likable and at times quite annoying. Too immature and selfish to allow a bond and be able to get into the story.
Could not finish this book. The MC wasn't very likable and at times quite annoying. Too immature and selfish to allow a bond and be able to get into the story.
April 8, 2025
Elfrid’s Hole blends rich Anglo Saxon history with a paranormal twist, but stumbles in character depth and narrative cohesion. It definitely intriguing, but uneven. 3/5💀
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews