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Stanton & Barling #3
The Canterbury Murders
A fire-ravaged cathedral. An ungodly murder.
Easter, 1177. Canterbury Cathedral, home to the tomb of martyr Saint Thomas Becket, bears the wounds of a terrible fire. Benedict, prior of the great church, leads its rebuilding. But horror interrupts the work. One of the stonemasons is found viciously murdered, the dead man’s face disfigured by a shocking wound.
When King’s clerk Aelred Barling and his assistant, Hugo Stanton, arrive on pilgrimage to the tomb, the prior orders them to investigate the unholy crime.
But the killer soon claims another victim–and another. As turmoil embroils the congregation, the pair of sleuths face urgent pressure to find a connection between the killings.
With panic on the rise, can Barling and Stanton catch the culprit before evil prevails again—and stop it before it comes for them?
THE CANTERBURY MURDERS is the third book in E.M. Powell’s Stanton and Barling medieval murder mystery series. Combining intricate plots, shocking twists and a winning–if unlikely–pair of investigators, this series is perfect for fans of Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael or C. J. Sansom’s Shardlake.
Easter, 1177. Canterbury Cathedral, home to the tomb of martyr Saint Thomas Becket, bears the wounds of a terrible fire. Benedict, prior of the great church, leads its rebuilding. But horror interrupts the work. One of the stonemasons is found viciously murdered, the dead man’s face disfigured by a shocking wound.
When King’s clerk Aelred Barling and his assistant, Hugo Stanton, arrive on pilgrimage to the tomb, the prior orders them to investigate the unholy crime.
But the killer soon claims another victim–and another. As turmoil embroils the congregation, the pair of sleuths face urgent pressure to find a connection between the killings.
With panic on the rise, can Barling and Stanton catch the culprit before evil prevails again—and stop it before it comes for them?
THE CANTERBURY MURDERS is the third book in E.M. Powell’s Stanton and Barling medieval murder mystery series. Combining intricate plots, shocking twists and a winning–if unlikely–pair of investigators, this series is perfect for fans of Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael or C. J. Sansom’s Shardlake.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2020
351 people are currently reading
878 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Powell
6 books401 followersE.M. Powell’s historical thriller and medieval mystery Fifth Knight and Stanton & Barling novels have been #1 Amazon and Bild bestsellers.
The latest Stanton & Barling mystery, THE FOREST MURDERS, will be released in 2025.
Born and raised in the Republic of Ireland into the family of Michael Collins (the legendary revolutionary and founder of the Irish Free State), she lives in northwest England with her husband and a social media-friendly dog.
Find out more by visiting her website www.empowell.com or follow her on Twitter @empowellauthor
She’s represented by Josh Getzler at HG Literary.
The latest Stanton & Barling mystery, THE FOREST MURDERS, will be released in 2025.
Born and raised in the Republic of Ireland into the family of Michael Collins (the legendary revolutionary and founder of the Irish Free State), she lives in northwest England with her husband and a social media-friendly dog.
Find out more by visiting her website www.empowell.com or follow her on Twitter @empowellauthor
She’s represented by Josh Getzler at HG Literary.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
January 17, 2021
Book 3 in the Barling and Stanton series takes us to the late 12th century Canterbury. This time the King's men are tasked with investigating a murder committed in the vicinity of the cathedral which is being rebuilt after a devastating fire. Barling and Stanton are not as close as they used to be, and the difference in characters is a good dynamics for the plot.
There are several more murders, and the duo face all kinds of problems and are offered red herrings before the mysteries are solved.
The plot is interesting, but what I appreciated most was the historical background on the cathedral, on the works connected with restoring its beauty and power, and on medieval pilgrimages. Ms Powell does a grand job describing the ambiance of the place and the times.
*Many thanks to E.M. Powell and NetGalley for arc in exchange for my honest review.*
There are several more murders, and the duo face all kinds of problems and are offered red herrings before the mysteries are solved.
The plot is interesting, but what I appreciated most was the historical background on the cathedral, on the works connected with restoring its beauty and power, and on medieval pilgrimages. Ms Powell does a grand job describing the ambiance of the place and the times.
*Many thanks to E.M. Powell and NetGalley for arc in exchange for my honest review.*
May 2, 2021
Set in medieval times, Barling, the King's clerk and Stanton, his assistant try to find out who has murdered Peter Flocke, a stonemason, at Canterbury. But the more they find out the more complex the story gets. You don't know for a very long time who really might be the murderer and bark up the wrong tree (like me). The investigators are likable the characters and crafted very well. If you are interested in medieval murder mysteries (like me; I often had to think about Eco's The Name of the Rose) you won't do wrong picking up this book (if you know Canterbury Cathedral an absolute must read). It starts relatively slow but soon shifts several gears up with more murders to come. Next to the story you'll get a good view on necromancers, work routine at the rebuilding of the cathedral and human relationships. An outstanding page turner. Highly recommended!
February 15, 2021
This very delightful medieval mystery is the 3rd volume of the amazing "Stanton & Barling" series from the wonderful Irish author, E.M. Powell.
At the back of the book you'll notice a very well documented Historical Note, as well as a List of Characters, with wonderful people who are featuring in this great mystery, and not to forget an in formative Bibliography.
Storytelling is once more of a top-notch quality, all characters, whether great historical or fantastic fictional, are very lifelike and believable and come all vividly to life within this mystery of murder and mayhem, while the brooding murderous atmosphere in Canterbury during this Eastertime comes superbly off the pages.
The book starts on 9 April, AD 1177, in Canterbury, Kent, with the murder of one of the stonemasons called, Peter Flocke, and immediately Prior Benedict of Christ Church is in all sorts of panic as to how to handle this dreadful murder.
On 17 April, AD 1177, while making a pilgrimage to Canterbury themselves, Barling especially who's hoping to pray at the tomb of Martyr Thomas Becket for forgiveness in an attempt to cleanse his soul of past sin, Stanton and Barling are all of a sudden summoned by a monk to attend Prior Benedict and Archbishop Richard of Canterbury, where they will be prompted to start an investigation into this murder.
During this investigation more murders will occur, with the likes of Robert Norwood, a pilgrim who's making penance for a past sin, Martin Eustace, a drunkard who's working now at the lime quarry, and not to forget, Hilde, an old servant of the Lady Isabel Tyson.
What is to follow is a very exciting and gripping medieval mystery in which the reader, such as I, is taken to dark recesses and evil streets as well as the dizzying heights of Canterbury Cathedral by the author, in order to follow closely the investigations by Barling and Stanton, towards an end that is filled with lively events and murder that will captivate the reader until the real culprit(s) of these murders are unmasked.
Highly recommended, for this is a superb addition to this marvellous series, look very much forward to the next instalment, and what this episode is concerned I want to call it: "A Magnificent Canterbury Murder Mystery"!
At the back of the book you'll notice a very well documented Historical Note, as well as a List of Characters, with wonderful people who are featuring in this great mystery, and not to forget an in formative Bibliography.
Storytelling is once more of a top-notch quality, all characters, whether great historical or fantastic fictional, are very lifelike and believable and come all vividly to life within this mystery of murder and mayhem, while the brooding murderous atmosphere in Canterbury during this Eastertime comes superbly off the pages.
The book starts on 9 April, AD 1177, in Canterbury, Kent, with the murder of one of the stonemasons called, Peter Flocke, and immediately Prior Benedict of Christ Church is in all sorts of panic as to how to handle this dreadful murder.
On 17 April, AD 1177, while making a pilgrimage to Canterbury themselves, Barling especially who's hoping to pray at the tomb of Martyr Thomas Becket for forgiveness in an attempt to cleanse his soul of past sin, Stanton and Barling are all of a sudden summoned by a monk to attend Prior Benedict and Archbishop Richard of Canterbury, where they will be prompted to start an investigation into this murder.
During this investigation more murders will occur, with the likes of Robert Norwood, a pilgrim who's making penance for a past sin, Martin Eustace, a drunkard who's working now at the lime quarry, and not to forget, Hilde, an old servant of the Lady Isabel Tyson.
What is to follow is a very exciting and gripping medieval mystery in which the reader, such as I, is taken to dark recesses and evil streets as well as the dizzying heights of Canterbury Cathedral by the author, in order to follow closely the investigations by Barling and Stanton, towards an end that is filled with lively events and murder that will captivate the reader until the real culprit(s) of these murders are unmasked.
Highly recommended, for this is a superb addition to this marvellous series, look very much forward to the next instalment, and what this episode is concerned I want to call it: "A Magnificent Canterbury Murder Mystery"!
November 23, 2020
Bone on stone. Blood on stone.
During rebuilding of Canterbury Cathedral, a body is found slashed, the holy Cross carved into the victim’s forehead with a sharp blade.
Barling, the King’s clerk and Stanton, his assistant are asked to help find the culprit before the King’s visit to the Cathedral.
It seems an easy task. Maybe the victim had enemies. Maybe it was a burglary gone wrong. Or maybe the crime was committed by a madman.
But when two more bodies are found killed in the same way, Barling realizes they may have a serial murderer in town.
The Canterbury Murders, the third in the Stanton and Barling series, is a fast-paced and intriguing historical fiction interspersed with facts, many suspects and twists.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and the NetGalley for my copy of the book.
During rebuilding of Canterbury Cathedral, a body is found slashed, the holy Cross carved into the victim’s forehead with a sharp blade.
Barling, the King’s clerk and Stanton, his assistant are asked to help find the culprit before the King’s visit to the Cathedral.
It seems an easy task. Maybe the victim had enemies. Maybe it was a burglary gone wrong. Or maybe the crime was committed by a madman.
But when two more bodies are found killed in the same way, Barling realizes they may have a serial murderer in town.
The Canterbury Murders, the third in the Stanton and Barling series, is a fast-paced and intriguing historical fiction interspersed with facts, many suspects and twists.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and the NetGalley for my copy of the book.
March 1, 2021
Inspired by the 2019 fire of the Notre Dame Cathedral, Powell chose to place her 3rd historical fiction murder mystery featuring the King’s Men Aelred Barling and Hugo Stanton in Canterbury in 1177. The author recounts the devastating fire of the Canterbury Cathedral in 1174 and the monumental task of the stone masons to create an even more impressive structure to replace it. The shrine of Saint Thomas Beckett drew a steady stream of pilgrims that provided a commercial boon to the community.
Powell has Barling and Stanton arriving in Canterbury just as one of the stone masons has been found murdered. They are quickly charged with finding the killer before the imminent arrival within days of King Henry II. As to be expected in a thriller of this kind, the initial murder multiplies to include more. The author includes a mix of real historic figures with fictional characters; and immerses the reader in 12th century life that include Pilgrim badges, meat pies, leeches, and more. Enjoy.
Powell has Barling and Stanton arriving in Canterbury just as one of the stone masons has been found murdered. They are quickly charged with finding the killer before the imminent arrival within days of King Henry II. As to be expected in a thriller of this kind, the initial murder multiplies to include more. The author includes a mix of real historic figures with fictional characters; and immerses the reader in 12th century life that include Pilgrim badges, meat pies, leeches, and more. Enjoy.
December 30, 2020
This story takes place in 1177, only 7 years after the murder of Thomas Beckett and many miracles were ascribed to him from the start.
In 1174, a fire destroyed the roof and the famous choir of Canterbury Cathedral where the mortal remains of Saint Thomas Beckett reside. A few years later prior Benedict oversees the massive restoration and rebuilding works. Many problems plague those works but when one of the most talented freestone masons is found stabbed and marked with a cross on his forehead, rumours of a curse spread like a wildfire. With the visit of King Henry II in a week’s time and this murder unsolved, Archbishop Richard asks help from the king’s justice, Ranulf de Granville. He sends them the king’s clerk Aelred Barling and his assistant Hugh Stanton. Luckily or accidentally (?) those have already arrived in Canterbury. Barling is anything but pleased to abort his pilgrimage to the grave of Saint Thomas Beckett. He severely fears for his immortal soul if he can’t complete this penance that he’s ordered to do after confessing his ‘grave’ sin to a priest. They’ve only just started to investigate when a huge rock nearly crushes Barling. But worse is yet to come when more similar murders occur. Hugh Stanton is distracted by a pretty young woman who’s looking for her missing sister and by a necromancer who offers the possibility to talk to his murdered lover.
This book gives an interesting insight into the daily lives of 12th-century ordinary people. Those lives were obviously drenched in religion and the concept of sin and penance. Fear for the final judgement after death and the possible eternal damnation of their souls was a real prospect for the people of that time. But also their devotion to saints and the possible miracles those could work were a part of life. Apart from the obvious Christian doctrine, there was also a belief in black magic and things like necromancers. The reading about pilgrimages makes fascinating lecture. The shrine of a saint was a commercial magnet for the ‘tourist-trade’ offering all sorts of secondary services for those pilgrims.
This differentiating between public beliefs and the more private dabbling in lesser-known practices is also visible in the medical profession. Where the surgeons and physicians were expensive, the herbal remedies and faith healers or saintly miracles were just as much in demand but not always reliable. Neither were those of the surgeons, who didn’t have to be certificated or even properly studied, that relied heavily on bloodletting.
This story offers a mix of real historical figures and made-up characters. Barling and Stanton are on their third adventure in this book and there are multiple references to the previous stories, but the events in this story stand completely on their own. Barling is a bit stern for my taste and I like the young Stanton, with his liking for good ale, a lot better. In the end, Barling proves that he does have a heart though. I only hope that he can forgive himself for something that’s certainly not a sin. Just more proof that religion can really fuck up people’s lives for no good reason whatsoever.
At the end of the book, there’s a very interesting part with historical notes and explanations. The writer did a lot of homework there. Even better, it also contains a list of characters. I wished they put those at the start of an e-book though, as you can’t flip through the pages as you’d do with a paper one.
I received a free ARC from Netgalley and the author and this is my honest, unbiased review of it.
In 1174, a fire destroyed the roof and the famous choir of Canterbury Cathedral where the mortal remains of Saint Thomas Beckett reside. A few years later prior Benedict oversees the massive restoration and rebuilding works. Many problems plague those works but when one of the most talented freestone masons is found stabbed and marked with a cross on his forehead, rumours of a curse spread like a wildfire. With the visit of King Henry II in a week’s time and this murder unsolved, Archbishop Richard asks help from the king’s justice, Ranulf de Granville. He sends them the king’s clerk Aelred Barling and his assistant Hugh Stanton. Luckily or accidentally (?) those have already arrived in Canterbury. Barling is anything but pleased to abort his pilgrimage to the grave of Saint Thomas Beckett. He severely fears for his immortal soul if he can’t complete this penance that he’s ordered to do after confessing his ‘grave’ sin to a priest. They’ve only just started to investigate when a huge rock nearly crushes Barling. But worse is yet to come when more similar murders occur. Hugh Stanton is distracted by a pretty young woman who’s looking for her missing sister and by a necromancer who offers the possibility to talk to his murdered lover.
This book gives an interesting insight into the daily lives of 12th-century ordinary people. Those lives were obviously drenched in religion and the concept of sin and penance. Fear for the final judgement after death and the possible eternal damnation of their souls was a real prospect for the people of that time. But also their devotion to saints and the possible miracles those could work were a part of life. Apart from the obvious Christian doctrine, there was also a belief in black magic and things like necromancers. The reading about pilgrimages makes fascinating lecture. The shrine of a saint was a commercial magnet for the ‘tourist-trade’ offering all sorts of secondary services for those pilgrims.
This differentiating between public beliefs and the more private dabbling in lesser-known practices is also visible in the medical profession. Where the surgeons and physicians were expensive, the herbal remedies and faith healers or saintly miracles were just as much in demand but not always reliable. Neither were those of the surgeons, who didn’t have to be certificated or even properly studied, that relied heavily on bloodletting.
This story offers a mix of real historical figures and made-up characters. Barling and Stanton are on their third adventure in this book and there are multiple references to the previous stories, but the events in this story stand completely on their own. Barling is a bit stern for my taste and I like the young Stanton, with his liking for good ale, a lot better. In the end, Barling proves that he does have a heart though. I only hope that he can forgive himself for something that’s certainly not a sin. Just more proof that religion can really fuck up people’s lives for no good reason whatsoever.
At the end of the book, there’s a very interesting part with historical notes and explanations. The writer did a lot of homework there. Even better, it also contains a list of characters. I wished they put those at the start of an e-book though, as you can’t flip through the pages as you’d do with a paper one.
I received a free ARC from Netgalley and the author and this is my honest, unbiased review of it.
December 10, 2020
This third book in the series with Stanton & Barling is the first one I read and I’m happy to say I liked it. It can be read as a stand alone.
When you go back to the 12th century you know that times were very, very different but the author did a very good job in writing the story in such a way that it doesn’t feel very different from a modern one. Stanton and Barling are an unlikely couple of friends, although they won’t admit that they are friends. They have none of the things we rely on nowadays – they only have their wits and their knowledge of how people may think and live. The characters are very well matched in that Barling is the one who tries to find a ‘scientific’ solution to the problem, while Stanton talks to people and goes by his feelings for them.
A wonderful atmospheric tale of a time we’ve almost forgotten, with a real mystery and an unexpected ending.
Thanks to Netgalley for this digital review copy.
When you go back to the 12th century you know that times were very, very different but the author did a very good job in writing the story in such a way that it doesn’t feel very different from a modern one. Stanton and Barling are an unlikely couple of friends, although they won’t admit that they are friends. They have none of the things we rely on nowadays – they only have their wits and their knowledge of how people may think and live. The characters are very well matched in that Barling is the one who tries to find a ‘scientific’ solution to the problem, while Stanton talks to people and goes by his feelings for them.
A wonderful atmospheric tale of a time we’ve almost forgotten, with a real mystery and an unexpected ending.
Thanks to Netgalley for this digital review copy.
November 22, 2020
Dark deeds in Holy places.
It's Easter, 1711 and Aelred Barling has a personal and exacting challenge metered out from his confessor--to make a pilgrimage to Canterbury. Our dour King's clerk has a deep, dark secret that pulls him down. He takes Hugo Stanton with him. Stanton of course is looking forward to the rumoured delights that abound on the pilgrimage trail but is foiled by the more moderate stops that the sanctimonious Barling chooses, much to Stanton's bitter chagrin.
After a penitent and bloody approach to the Cathederal, Barling is in line on the steps, almost through the door, ready to complete his task, yearning for the spiritual relief this will give him, when he's hauled out of the line at the King Henry II's request to support no lesser a powerful being, than Richard, Archbishop of Canterbury.
Murder has taken place and Barling is called upon to investigate. As the killings escalate he and Stanton struggle to find links that will lead to resolution.
Once more this unlikely duo are thrust into a situation that will stretch and test them.
As always a different but highly satisfying read.
An ARC provided by the author via NetGalley
It's Easter, 1711 and Aelred Barling has a personal and exacting challenge metered out from his confessor--to make a pilgrimage to Canterbury. Our dour King's clerk has a deep, dark secret that pulls him down. He takes Hugo Stanton with him. Stanton of course is looking forward to the rumoured delights that abound on the pilgrimage trail but is foiled by the more moderate stops that the sanctimonious Barling chooses, much to Stanton's bitter chagrin.
After a penitent and bloody approach to the Cathederal, Barling is in line on the steps, almost through the door, ready to complete his task, yearning for the spiritual relief this will give him, when he's hauled out of the line at the King Henry II's request to support no lesser a powerful being, than Richard, Archbishop of Canterbury.
Murder has taken place and Barling is called upon to investigate. As the killings escalate he and Stanton struggle to find links that will lead to resolution.
Once more this unlikely duo are thrust into a situation that will stretch and test them.
As always a different but highly satisfying read.
An ARC provided by the author via NetGalley
February 24, 2021
I received a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
The Canterbury Murders
Stanton and Barling #3
By: E. M. Powell
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
The Canterbury Murders is third in a series I have not read, but this story read fine as a standalone. To Canterbury, Kent we go in the year 1177. Canterbury Cathedral is the scene of the crime, (FYI-Thomas Beckett and the cathedral have an interesting history that you might consider learning more about), specifically, a stonemason working on fire damage is found dead. Odd, however, is a gruesome carving on the body that hearkens to something sinister. What is the killer trying to say? This is a question for the investigators to examine.
As the mystery progresses and plays out, readers catch tidbits of history here and there. A medieval murder mystery is certainly unique and intriguing. This time period is not one I often read, so I enjoyed the different historical context and methods of solving, etc. Overall, the plot is compelling, engaging and complex. The characters are witty, intelligent, dynamic and complimentary to one another. It is an excellent read, and I recommend it heartily for historical mystery enthusiasts!
The Canterbury Murders
Stanton and Barling #3
By: E. M. Powell
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
The Canterbury Murders is third in a series I have not read, but this story read fine as a standalone. To Canterbury, Kent we go in the year 1177. Canterbury Cathedral is the scene of the crime, (FYI-Thomas Beckett and the cathedral have an interesting history that you might consider learning more about), specifically, a stonemason working on fire damage is found dead. Odd, however, is a gruesome carving on the body that hearkens to something sinister. What is the killer trying to say? This is a question for the investigators to examine.
As the mystery progresses and plays out, readers catch tidbits of history here and there. A medieval murder mystery is certainly unique and intriguing. This time period is not one I often read, so I enjoyed the different historical context and methods of solving, etc. Overall, the plot is compelling, engaging and complex. The characters are witty, intelligent, dynamic and complimentary to one another. It is an excellent read, and I recommend it heartily for historical mystery enthusiasts!
January 4, 2024
The Canterbury Murders is the third in E.M. Powells' Stanton and Barling series. The draw of the series is the dynamics between the two investigators, Barling being the kings clerk is a cleric, who is a teetotaler and looks askance at everyday lusts and joys. Stanton his hard-riding assistant enjoys a good pint and a roll in the hay.
The Canterbury Murders is told in the alternating POV of each of the main characters. There are plenty of red herrings in this episode.
I intend to follow this series.
The Canterbury Murders is told in the alternating POV of each of the main characters. There are plenty of red herrings in this episode.
I intend to follow this series.
January 24, 2021
BLURB
A fire-ravaged cathedral. An ungodly murder.
Easter, 1177. Canterbury Cathedral, home to the tomb of martyr Saint Thomas Becket, bears the wounds of a terrible fire. Benedict, prior of the great church, leads its rebuilding. But horror interrupts the work. One of the stonemasons is found viciously murdered, the dead man’s face disfigured by a shocking wound.
When King’s clerk Aelred Barling and his assistant, Hugo Stanton, arrive on pilgrimage to the tomb, the prior orders them to investigate the unholy crime.
But the killer soon claims another victim–and another. As turmoil embroils the congregation, the pair of sleuths face urgent pressure to find a connection between the killings.
With panic on the rise, can Barling and Stanton catch the culprit before evil prevails again—and stop it before it comes for them?
THE CANTERBURY MURDERS is the third book in E.M. Powell’s Stanton and Barling medieval murder mystery series. Combining intricate plots, shocking twists and a winning–if unlikely–pair of investigators, this series is perfect for fans of Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael or C. J. Sansom’s Shardlake.
REVIEW
Part of the charm of reading murder mysteries is the exhilaration the reader feels when they know who the culprit is...and then to have that feeling replaced by another bout of exhilaration when they realize they were wrong, but now they know for sure who the culprit is. Repeat this cycle until the very end and then exclaim, 'I knew it'. A thoroughly enjoyable tale as Barling and Stanton tackle a series of brutal murders - a formidable task in and of itself. Let's add a few impediments to the investigation...an incompetent Prior, the rebuilding of the Canterbury Cathedral, an ambitious recorder of the miracles at the tomb of St. Thomas Becket, and just a tad of pressure with the imminent arrival of King Henry. Oh, let's add some more drama - a serious rift in the relationship between Aelred and Hugo. Yes my fellow readers, the author has created a masterful whodunit; a page turning race to resolve another seemingly impossible set of crimes. Suspects - many...mistakes made - many...tormented souls - many...a shocking discovery - one. Stars - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A fire-ravaged cathedral. An ungodly murder.
Easter, 1177. Canterbury Cathedral, home to the tomb of martyr Saint Thomas Becket, bears the wounds of a terrible fire. Benedict, prior of the great church, leads its rebuilding. But horror interrupts the work. One of the stonemasons is found viciously murdered, the dead man’s face disfigured by a shocking wound.
When King’s clerk Aelred Barling and his assistant, Hugo Stanton, arrive on pilgrimage to the tomb, the prior orders them to investigate the unholy crime.
But the killer soon claims another victim–and another. As turmoil embroils the congregation, the pair of sleuths face urgent pressure to find a connection between the killings.
With panic on the rise, can Barling and Stanton catch the culprit before evil prevails again—and stop it before it comes for them?
THE CANTERBURY MURDERS is the third book in E.M. Powell’s Stanton and Barling medieval murder mystery series. Combining intricate plots, shocking twists and a winning–if unlikely–pair of investigators, this series is perfect for fans of Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael or C. J. Sansom’s Shardlake.
REVIEW
Part of the charm of reading murder mysteries is the exhilaration the reader feels when they know who the culprit is...and then to have that feeling replaced by another bout of exhilaration when they realize they were wrong, but now they know for sure who the culprit is. Repeat this cycle until the very end and then exclaim, 'I knew it'. A thoroughly enjoyable tale as Barling and Stanton tackle a series of brutal murders - a formidable task in and of itself. Let's add a few impediments to the investigation...an incompetent Prior, the rebuilding of the Canterbury Cathedral, an ambitious recorder of the miracles at the tomb of St. Thomas Becket, and just a tad of pressure with the imminent arrival of King Henry. Oh, let's add some more drama - a serious rift in the relationship between Aelred and Hugo. Yes my fellow readers, the author has created a masterful whodunit; a page turning race to resolve another seemingly impossible set of crimes. Suspects - many...mistakes made - many...tormented souls - many...a shocking discovery - one. Stars - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 16, 2021
The Canterbury Murders is a historical mystery set in Canterbury, Kent in 1177 and I was immediately transported back to Canterbury Cathedral in the 12th century, during the time when the people, referred to as pilgrims, continuously journeyed to visit the shrine of the murdered Archbishop Thomas Beckett. A stonemason working to repair the cathedral after a devastating fire is found badly mutilated and investigators Aelred Barling and Hugo Stanton are enlisted to find the killer. When more murders are discovered, it's up to Barling and Stanton to find a common connection.
Author E.M. Powell has crafted an intriguing novel that both educates and entertains. The Historical Note at the end of the book relates the true facts of the feud between King Henry II and Thomas Beckett that led to Beckett's murder, along with many other historical facts and figures pertinent to this era. Powell's creation of numerous fictional characters and the many twists and turns surrounding the medieval murders increase the fascination and I was kept guessing until the very end!
This is the third book featuring Stanton and Barling but it can be read as a standalone. I recommend it to fans of historical fiction.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher but there was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
Author E.M. Powell has crafted an intriguing novel that both educates and entertains. The Historical Note at the end of the book relates the true facts of the feud between King Henry II and Thomas Beckett that led to Beckett's murder, along with many other historical facts and figures pertinent to this era. Powell's creation of numerous fictional characters and the many twists and turns surrounding the medieval murders increase the fascination and I was kept guessing until the very end!
This is the third book featuring Stanton and Barling but it can be read as a standalone. I recommend it to fans of historical fiction.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher but there was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
November 3, 2020
I had the pleasure & privilege to receive an Advance Review Copy of The Canterbury Murders. What a treat.
Medieval murder mystery
Brilliant Who dounit
Gripping
Well written
Excellent read
Santon & Barling whilst on a pilgrimage to Canterbury are drawn into another case & murder to solve.
The Archbishop & Prior task Barling to quickly solve the strange murder, Barling sets to the task in his usual methodical way
Things are not as they seem, tension arises between Santon & Barling the Prior adds more pressure as the body count rises.
You are left wondering who is the murderer, and try to understand whom it could be hints, glimpses, snippets, and possible scenario from in your mind as you read this excellent book....
I will be honest I did not guess the murderer... Which is GREAT, I did wonder about one character, whom I decided could be but nope I was wrong
Great book, well written, friendships are tested but must say no enjoyed the book
5 Stars from me I so glad I was provided the Advance Review Copy.
Thank you
Medieval murder mystery
Brilliant Who dounit
Gripping
Well written
Excellent read
Santon & Barling whilst on a pilgrimage to Canterbury are drawn into another case & murder to solve.
The Archbishop & Prior task Barling to quickly solve the strange murder, Barling sets to the task in his usual methodical way
Things are not as they seem, tension arises between Santon & Barling the Prior adds more pressure as the body count rises.
You are left wondering who is the murderer, and try to understand whom it could be hints, glimpses, snippets, and possible scenario from in your mind as you read this excellent book....
I will be honest I did not guess the murderer... Which is GREAT, I did wonder about one character, whom I decided could be but nope I was wrong
Great book, well written, friendships are tested but must say no enjoyed the book
5 Stars from me I so glad I was provided the Advance Review Copy.
Thank you
November 8, 2020
I read books 1 and 2 in January this year and I remember noting in my reading journal that I look forward to the next instalment. So, I was thrilled to realise that book 3 is ready!
Barling and Stanton pick up from where we last saw them. Aelred Barling, a King's Clerk, is recovering from the last adventure and he is on pilgrimage to Canterbury to account for his great sin of homosexuality. However, their arrival at the cathedral does not go as planned as they are drawn into another murder mystery. Following the trend set in the two previous books, this one too has a high body count, gruesome murders and a sudden twist in the tale at the end. We also get to hear the full tale of the affair between Hugo Stanton and Rosamund Clifford which was hinted at throughout the series.
I also love the historical note at the end and the depth of research gives the book such a wonderful, authentic feel. My trip to Canterbury was cancelled this year due to covid and now I am really looking forward to visiting the cathedral and the tomb of Thomas Becket.
Highly recommended for those who enjoy historical crime fiction.
I received a free copy from Netgalley, and this is an unbiased review.
Barling and Stanton pick up from where we last saw them. Aelred Barling, a King's Clerk, is recovering from the last adventure and he is on pilgrimage to Canterbury to account for his great sin of homosexuality. However, their arrival at the cathedral does not go as planned as they are drawn into another murder mystery. Following the trend set in the two previous books, this one too has a high body count, gruesome murders and a sudden twist in the tale at the end. We also get to hear the full tale of the affair between Hugo Stanton and Rosamund Clifford which was hinted at throughout the series.
I also love the historical note at the end and the depth of research gives the book such a wonderful, authentic feel. My trip to Canterbury was cancelled this year due to covid and now I am really looking forward to visiting the cathedral and the tomb of Thomas Becket.
Highly recommended for those who enjoy historical crime fiction.
I received a free copy from Netgalley, and this is an unbiased review.
November 4, 2020
*I received an Advance Review Copy of this book. This is my independent opinion.*
Looking through my Goodreads a few months ago I was surprised with how many books I’ve given 5 stars. Like surely all those books I’ve rated can’t all be masterpieces, right? So I made a commitment. I wasn’t going to just throw out 5/5s willy-nilly anymore, I was only going to give them to stories that completely captivated me, moved me, entertained me and had me on the edge of my seat.
And then along comes E.M Powell with her latest mystery and try as I might, I couldn’t help but rate it honestly.
‘The Canterbury Murders’ once again follows Stanton and Barling, two men who now are no strangers to murders and mysteries after solving a few in the last entries in the series. This time though, they are caught completely unawares as disaster strikes at the Canterbury Cathedral, a place they were only visiting by chance. With a superb cast of shady characters and an almost impossible deadline to meet, can they solve the mystery before it’s too late?
Powell never fails to impress me as she takes the reader back in a journey through time, you honestly feel like you’re there in Canterbury, and that the story you’re reading is just so real. This is an absolute credit to the her and all of the research she does and dedication she has to the subject matter. It makes everything come alive and jump off of the page.
Then we have the characters, and man alive do they deliver. No joke, Stanton & Barling may just be my favourite duo to ever be put on paper. Each character is so fleshed out and unique and that makes for engaging moments of banter, conflict and discussion. And that actually goes for every character in this book, each one is absolutely and believably brought to live, even though the majority are entirely fictional.
Then there’s the mystery, the crux of the whole book. This is the first time in a long time that a mystery was too smart for me. I thought I had it figured out and I was completely wrong. I ABSOLUTELY loved it. Everything ended up making so much sense, how everything played out was nothing short of masterful and the conclusion left me breathless. I will say though that it did feel like the mystery took a while to actually get going, but when it got going it really got going and you see that the setup was super important.
Lastly, the final chapter hit me harder than I think anything I’ve ever read ever has. Such a phenomenal piece of writing that made me unexpectedly well up with emotion.
I loved every single bit of this book, and E.M Powell has made me fall in love with the historical fiction genre, something I never really found all too appealing before reading her incredible works. Each of her books feels like an improvement on the last and every one of them is an absolute must-read. I cannot wait for whatever comes next.
Looking through my Goodreads a few months ago I was surprised with how many books I’ve given 5 stars. Like surely all those books I’ve rated can’t all be masterpieces, right? So I made a commitment. I wasn’t going to just throw out 5/5s willy-nilly anymore, I was only going to give them to stories that completely captivated me, moved me, entertained me and had me on the edge of my seat.
And then along comes E.M Powell with her latest mystery and try as I might, I couldn’t help but rate it honestly.
‘The Canterbury Murders’ once again follows Stanton and Barling, two men who now are no strangers to murders and mysteries after solving a few in the last entries in the series. This time though, they are caught completely unawares as disaster strikes at the Canterbury Cathedral, a place they were only visiting by chance. With a superb cast of shady characters and an almost impossible deadline to meet, can they solve the mystery before it’s too late?
Powell never fails to impress me as she takes the reader back in a journey through time, you honestly feel like you’re there in Canterbury, and that the story you’re reading is just so real. This is an absolute credit to the her and all of the research she does and dedication she has to the subject matter. It makes everything come alive and jump off of the page.
Then we have the characters, and man alive do they deliver. No joke, Stanton & Barling may just be my favourite duo to ever be put on paper. Each character is so fleshed out and unique and that makes for engaging moments of banter, conflict and discussion. And that actually goes for every character in this book, each one is absolutely and believably brought to live, even though the majority are entirely fictional.
Then there’s the mystery, the crux of the whole book. This is the first time in a long time that a mystery was too smart for me. I thought I had it figured out and I was completely wrong. I ABSOLUTELY loved it. Everything ended up making so much sense, how everything played out was nothing short of masterful and the conclusion left me breathless. I will say though that it did feel like the mystery took a while to actually get going, but when it got going it really got going and you see that the setup was super important.
Lastly, the final chapter hit me harder than I think anything I’ve ever read ever has. Such a phenomenal piece of writing that made me unexpectedly well up with emotion.
I loved every single bit of this book, and E.M Powell has made me fall in love with the historical fiction genre, something I never really found all too appealing before reading her incredible works. Each of her books feels like an improvement on the last and every one of them is an absolute must-read. I cannot wait for whatever comes next.
July 15, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley for this arc
2,5
Well, this was underwhelming. The plot had potential, but it was also very obvious towards the end. Oh the "obvious" guilty people are found guilty, but wait, it's not them, it's the other two who were so very kind all the while.
This is the third novel in this series, and here we follow the investigation of a gruesome murder that took place in Canterbury, near the grave of St. Thomas Becket. The single murder soon turns into a spree and the monks are no help. The city is full of people because it is the week before Easter. The investigating partners have to solve the murder(s) before Easter and the arrival of the King.
This time constraint is a problem – this means that everything happens in 4 or 5 days. Which would not be a problem, but presumably the murderers are not COMPLETE idiots. Why kill a sea of people, one a day when they know that the investigators are here and the king is coming? Why step up the pace? They had killed 6 people without anyone noticing and then they just went crazy? No, they killed one, but to prevent suspicion coming to them killed the second, then a person who helped them, then a person who saw them…. Stupid.
And then – as a cherry on the top: “One of the victims was killed by another person” reveal time!
Oh and there’s also a paedophile bragging to a mum that he had other options for victims. I know a bad guy is not supposed to be the smartest guy in the book, but to be suicidal…
As you can tell, side characters are just caricatures. But what about the main characters?
We have Stanton – a person who lives for drink, but hides a dark sad story. And of course, we find out the story, but not before we at 95% of the book get an explicit sex scene for no reason whatsoever.
Barling is a bastard and an idiot. The fact that he is hangry all the time gets a bit annoying, especially when he is like this smart investigator dood but resents his partner for asking questions. He is afraid of heights, so of course he will be asked to climb something before the end in order to save someone. He hears about a disappearance of a girl, but he doesn’t care but instead berates the sister of the missing girl and his partner for trying to help her. Chill, dood.
Ok, I've used "dood" too many times, it's time to stop writing..
2,5
Well, this was underwhelming. The plot had potential, but it was also very obvious towards the end. Oh the "obvious" guilty people are found guilty, but wait, it's not them, it's the other two who were so very kind all the while.
This is the third novel in this series, and here we follow the investigation of a gruesome murder that took place in Canterbury, near the grave of St. Thomas Becket. The single murder soon turns into a spree and the monks are no help. The city is full of people because it is the week before Easter. The investigating partners have to solve the murder(s) before Easter and the arrival of the King.
This time constraint is a problem – this means that everything happens in 4 or 5 days. Which would not be a problem, but presumably the murderers are not COMPLETE idiots. Why kill a sea of people, one a day when they know that the investigators are here and the king is coming? Why step up the pace? They had killed 6 people without anyone noticing and then they just went crazy? No, they killed one, but to prevent suspicion coming to them killed the second, then a person who helped them, then a person who saw them…. Stupid.
And then – as a cherry on the top: “One of the victims was killed by another person” reveal time!
Oh and there’s also a paedophile bragging to a mum that he had other options for victims. I know a bad guy is not supposed to be the smartest guy in the book, but to be suicidal…
As you can tell, side characters are just caricatures. But what about the main characters?
We have Stanton – a person who lives for drink, but hides a dark sad story. And of course, we find out the story, but not before we at 95% of the book get an explicit sex scene for no reason whatsoever.
Barling is a bastard and an idiot. The fact that he is hangry all the time gets a bit annoying, especially when he is like this smart investigator dood but resents his partner for asking questions. He is afraid of heights, so of course he will be asked to climb something before the end in order to save someone. He hears about a disappearance of a girl, but he doesn’t care but instead berates the sister of the missing girl and his partner for trying to help her. Chill, dood.
Ok, I've used "dood" too many times, it's time to stop writing..
January 27, 2021
This is the third book in the Stanton and Barling Mysteries, which just happens to be my first introduction to this wonderfully engaging series. Personally, I do think you can easily read this as a stand-alone, overall this is all about the mystery but I do think if you want to get to know Stanton and Barling and learn more about them and their history I would need to read the previous books too, which I will be doing so.
1177, Canterbury Cathedral, a fire has swept through and ravaged parts of the historic building, the resident prior; Benedict is in charge of the great restoration but things come to a sudden grisly stop when a stonemason is found brutally murdered. Gasp!!
The King’s own clerk; Aelred Barling is only passing through on a pilgrimage to visit the tomb of the martyr; Saint Thomas Becket, with his faithful sidekick; Hugo Stanton. Barling and Stanton are asked to help solve the case and get to the bottom of the heinous crime.
Then, Boom; another murder!! Thing’s are looking uncertain, there are fear and speculation amongst the congregation, Barling and Stanton must work quickly to bring the culprit to justice before blood flows again.
The Canterbury Murder’s is an excellently written, engrossing, fast-paced ‘whodunnit’ what I particularly loved about it, is that it is a small way reminded me of Cadfael, the same intriguing plot which keeps you hooked throughout and charismatic entertaining characters who you can’t help but like instantly.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, I’ve not read any of this author before but I liked how Powell’s engaging writing and how she kept you guessing as to who did what and why, I didn’t see the ending coming, I was gripped!
I loved how fast the plot was, as soon as I started reading I was swept away and thrown headfirst into the 12th century, from the first page you just know that this book is going to be a good ‘un and I wasn’t wrong, I loved the journey, I loved that it piqued my imagination.
The Canterbury Murder’s is an intense, mysterious, vivid, atmospheric, tantalising and compulsive read, the perfect historical to really sink your teeth into.
1177, Canterbury Cathedral, a fire has swept through and ravaged parts of the historic building, the resident prior; Benedict is in charge of the great restoration but things come to a sudden grisly stop when a stonemason is found brutally murdered. Gasp!!
The King’s own clerk; Aelred Barling is only passing through on a pilgrimage to visit the tomb of the martyr; Saint Thomas Becket, with his faithful sidekick; Hugo Stanton. Barling and Stanton are asked to help solve the case and get to the bottom of the heinous crime.
Then, Boom; another murder!! Thing’s are looking uncertain, there are fear and speculation amongst the congregation, Barling and Stanton must work quickly to bring the culprit to justice before blood flows again.
The Canterbury Murder’s is an excellently written, engrossing, fast-paced ‘whodunnit’ what I particularly loved about it, is that it is a small way reminded me of Cadfael, the same intriguing plot which keeps you hooked throughout and charismatic entertaining characters who you can’t help but like instantly.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, I’ve not read any of this author before but I liked how Powell’s engaging writing and how she kept you guessing as to who did what and why, I didn’t see the ending coming, I was gripped!
I loved how fast the plot was, as soon as I started reading I was swept away and thrown headfirst into the 12th century, from the first page you just know that this book is going to be a good ‘un and I wasn’t wrong, I loved the journey, I loved that it piqued my imagination.
The Canterbury Murder’s is an intense, mysterious, vivid, atmospheric, tantalising and compulsive read, the perfect historical to really sink your teeth into.
December 21, 2020
The Canterbury Murders, a medieval murder mystery by E.M. Powell, picks up in the middle of a series which I admit I haven't previously read. Still, it works fine as a standalone, as ongoing mystery series usually do; any previous character development or plot details that might be needed to understand the detecting pair, Stanton and Barling, are exposited sufficiently in this story.
Aelred Barling and Hugh Stanton, a King's clerk and his assistant, are an unlikely pair of friends, but the complex relationship between the two - a distinctly Holmes/Watson dynamic - is by far the strongest aspect of the book. The prose is stilted and flat, while the plot - a series of grisly murders disrupting the rebuilding of Canterbury Cathedral in 1177, right at the height of Easter pilgrimages - ricochets along. Barling and Stanton make an interesting pair of characters, but are pretty terrible detectives, skimming over clues, accepting anything anyone tells them as verified truth, and jumping to conclusions all over the place. The unsatisfying solution comes out of nowhere and feels completely unmotivated, so I guess Barling's tendency to ignore clues doesn't really matter. Overall, the historical atmosphere is well-done, as is the relationship between the two central characters, but as a mystery, it's severely lacking.
Content warnings: Torture, murder, sexual assault, child abuse.
I received an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Aelred Barling and Hugh Stanton, a King's clerk and his assistant, are an unlikely pair of friends, but the complex relationship between the two - a distinctly Holmes/Watson dynamic - is by far the strongest aspect of the book. The prose is stilted and flat, while the plot - a series of grisly murders disrupting the rebuilding of Canterbury Cathedral in 1177, right at the height of Easter pilgrimages - ricochets along. Barling and Stanton make an interesting pair of characters, but are pretty terrible detectives, skimming over clues, accepting anything anyone tells them as verified truth, and jumping to conclusions all over the place. The unsatisfying solution comes out of nowhere and feels completely unmotivated, so I guess Barling's tendency to ignore clues doesn't really matter. Overall, the historical atmosphere is well-done, as is the relationship between the two central characters, but as a mystery, it's severely lacking.
Content warnings: Torture, murder, sexual assault, child abuse.
I received an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2021
The King’s clerk, Aelred Barling and his assistant Hugo Stanton have finally made it to Canterbury. Barling is desperate to find absolution at the shrine of Saint Thomas a Becket. But before he can achieve his goal he is thwarted by the need for his skills as an investigator for there has been a most egregious murder of one of the men working on the Cathedral. And soon a third victim is found.
Before he and Stanton can even gather all the evidence there is a second murder and the pressure is on to find the fiend who is behind the gruesome events. There is so much confusion in the town with all of the pilgrims, the rebuilding, and everyone looking to take advantage of what they can. Will they be able to figure out who is doing the killings before they kill again?
This was a well paced mystery as it led the reader along through 12th century Canterbury as the cathedral is rising again from a fire. There were complicated political faction among the monks, the everyday living conditions for the populace and of course a murderer running around. Stanton and Barling are great characters with distinct personalities that bicker and come back together like all great friends do.
The book is a fast paced read with an inolving mystery. I like these characters and will look forward to their further adventures. Sadly that will involve more murder but Ms. Powell doesn’t make it all that gruesome and she really brings the time period to life.
4.5
Before he and Stanton can even gather all the evidence there is a second murder and the pressure is on to find the fiend who is behind the gruesome events. There is so much confusion in the town with all of the pilgrims, the rebuilding, and everyone looking to take advantage of what they can. Will they be able to figure out who is doing the killings before they kill again?
This was a well paced mystery as it led the reader along through 12th century Canterbury as the cathedral is rising again from a fire. There were complicated political faction among the monks, the everyday living conditions for the populace and of course a murderer running around. Stanton and Barling are great characters with distinct personalities that bicker and come back together like all great friends do.
The book is a fast paced read with an inolving mystery. I like these characters and will look forward to their further adventures. Sadly that will involve more murder but Ms. Powell doesn’t make it all that gruesome and she really brings the time period to life.
4.5
Read
January 14, 2021You know, there’s just something about mysteries that draw you into the story. I don’t know what it is about them but they’ve been a favorite genre of mine for as long as I can remember. And it’s a genre that is just timeless. And what I really loved about this particular mystery is that it is set in the past and brings back in an engaging and fun way.
The one thing that this book did really well with was not feeling like a dry history lesson. You know those books that feel like they more they’re telling you every little detail about the time period instead of actually sharing a story with you? Yeah, this isn’t one of those. You are transported back to the times but you get to live it through the characters and their shenanigans.
And even with this solid story telling I still felt as if I learned a lot. I really enjoyed this read and it was such an interesting take on the classic mystery genre. Plus I do love a book that teaches me without my knowing.
You can view my full review on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
The one thing that this book did really well with was not feeling like a dry history lesson. You know those books that feel like they more they’re telling you every little detail about the time period instead of actually sharing a story with you? Yeah, this isn’t one of those. You are transported back to the times but you get to live it through the characters and their shenanigans.
And even with this solid story telling I still felt as if I learned a lot. I really enjoyed this read and it was such an interesting take on the classic mystery genre. Plus I do love a book that teaches me without my knowing.
You can view my full review on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
February 5, 2021
The Canterbury Murders by E.M. Powell is the third installment in the Stanton and Barling medieval murder mystery series. However, I did read this as a standalone and was able to do so without any issue.
It didn’t take long for this novel to take off. The pacing is great and kept me wanting more. One of the things that impresses me the most about historical fiction is the research that goes into these novels. It felt realistic and authentic. I felt as if I was transported back in time, with rich details of setting and atmospheric writing.
I’m impressed with the cast of characters. The main and side characters were very well written. I love the multiple POVs. It really let me get inside the character’s heads.
The muder mystery was well crafted. I loved the twists and the fact that I couldn’t guess what was happening.
Overall, this was an impressive novel. Give it a read.
*I received a free copy of this book from HFVBT in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
It didn’t take long for this novel to take off. The pacing is great and kept me wanting more. One of the things that impresses me the most about historical fiction is the research that goes into these novels. It felt realistic and authentic. I felt as if I was transported back in time, with rich details of setting and atmospheric writing.
I’m impressed with the cast of characters. The main and side characters were very well written. I love the multiple POVs. It really let me get inside the character’s heads.
The muder mystery was well crafted. I loved the twists and the fact that I couldn’t guess what was happening.
Overall, this was an impressive novel. Give it a read.
*I received a free copy of this book from HFVBT in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
November 15, 2020
The Canterbury Murders A Stanton and Barling Mystery Book 3 by E.M. Powell is an entertaining and fast paced medieval mystery. The intrepid duo of Stanton and Barling are back investigating a series of murders in the city of Canterbury.
E.M. Powell weaves a compelling tale set in 12th century Canterbury amongst the backdrop of the vibrant city with the every day townspeople, cathedral monks, the stonemasons responsible for the rebuilding of the badly fire damaged cathedral, and the many pilgrims making their pilgrimage to Thomas Becket's shrine.
A varying cast of strongly written characters with virtues, vices, and many a plausible suspect for the crimes being committed. With a well researched story line delving into the various types of pilgrims and their reasons for undertaking a pilgrimage and all that that entails, one gets the feel of the medieval mindset and medieval Canterbury.
The relationship between the main characters of Hugo Stanton and Aelred Barling , two men of vastly different temperaments and character, is complex with underlying tension but also friendship and respect for each others strengths. I enjoy seeing their interaction with each other, the various people they encounter, and how they go about solving the crime they've been tasked with.
This is book 3 of the series. I am hoping that E.M. Powell does not end the series with this book but writes many more adventures featuring Stanton and Barling. I received an Advance Review Copy of this book. This is my independent opinion.
E.M. Powell weaves a compelling tale set in 12th century Canterbury amongst the backdrop of the vibrant city with the every day townspeople, cathedral monks, the stonemasons responsible for the rebuilding of the badly fire damaged cathedral, and the many pilgrims making their pilgrimage to Thomas Becket's shrine.
A varying cast of strongly written characters with virtues, vices, and many a plausible suspect for the crimes being committed. With a well researched story line delving into the various types of pilgrims and their reasons for undertaking a pilgrimage and all that that entails, one gets the feel of the medieval mindset and medieval Canterbury.
The relationship between the main characters of Hugo Stanton and Aelred Barling , two men of vastly different temperaments and character, is complex with underlying tension but also friendship and respect for each others strengths. I enjoy seeing their interaction with each other, the various people they encounter, and how they go about solving the crime they've been tasked with.
This is book 3 of the series. I am hoping that E.M. Powell does not end the series with this book but writes many more adventures featuring Stanton and Barling. I received an Advance Review Copy of this book. This is my independent opinion.
March 22, 2021
I do like this series of books. They do seem historically accurate and the attention to detail is excellent.
This one was particularly interesting to read as was set in Canterbury.
Stanton and Barling are good characters, I grow more fond of them with each book.
This one was particularly interesting to read as was set in Canterbury.
Stanton and Barling are good characters, I grow more fond of them with each book.
June 6, 2021
Barling goes on a pilgrimage
Stanton finds that the friendship forged in the north seems to have dissipated and he doesn't know why. Barling tells him to come with him on his pilgrimage to Canterbury. Barling is called out of the queue to solve a murder for the Archbishop. Barling and Stanton are a good team, very different from each other but their minds and talents work well together. I think this is my favourite in the series so far.
Stanton finds that the friendship forged in the north seems to have dissipated and he doesn't know why. Barling tells him to come with him on his pilgrimage to Canterbury. Barling is called out of the queue to solve a murder for the Archbishop. Barling and Stanton are a good team, very different from each other but their minds and talents work well together. I think this is my favourite in the series so far.
March 5, 2021
This book as good as what I thought. The book was interesting, intriguing, action packed, unpredictable and I just loved how this book kept you in reading and in suspense until the very end. I loved reading this book so much, I hated to put it down.
I highly recommend this book and definitely will read again.
I highly recommend this book and definitely will read again.
December 4, 2020
Canterbury in 1177. Murder of a stonemason rebuilding the Cathedral brings the Kings Clerk Barling and his assistant Stanton. Barling is on a pilgrimage and does not relish having to look into this barbaric murder instead. When more murders follow, the bodies marked in the same way, Barling will have to overcome his fears to save a precious life. There is much personal friction between Barling and Stanton in the investigation of these murders with not much help from the monks. It becomes a very involved mystery with red herrings a plenty. It might help readers to read previous stories to get the back story on the main characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 28, 2021
A well written murder mystery. Twists and turns all through. So many suspects i didn't know the culprit until the end.
March 26, 2021
Outing number three for Stanton and Barling and murder seems to follow them around. Interestingly, the title has it as the Stanton and Barling series when Barling would be mortified not to be given senior billing. He is in charge, as he never ceases to remind Stanton.
After the revelations about Barling’s past at the end of Book 2, Stanton had hoped their relationship had entered a new phase, from endlessly lecturing master and pupil to friends. However, he has been disappointed. Barling is back to his superior, distant former self. When Barling decides to make a pilgrimage to the shrine of Thomas Becket at Canterbury Cathedral, Stanton is ordered to accompany him. Stanton is forced to watch Barling exhaust his meagre strength through extreme fasting and exertion. Barling even insists on covering the last few miles in bare feet. All this means that when they finally reach Canterbury and join the long, long line of pilgrims waiting for their chance to ask for the saint’s help, Barling is filthy, spent and in pain. What Stanton doesn’t know is that Barling is terrified. He has confessed his past sins, the same ones he confessed to Stanton, to his parish priest and been told that his very soul is in peril. He must cleanse himself of his terrible sins by making this pilgrimage or he will burn in Hell forever. The pressure of this has returned Barling to his former waspish, isolated self. He stands in the queue at Canterbury with his soul hanging in the balance when he is yanked out of it, by a monk, who says that Prior Benedict of Christ Church must see him, immediately.
Barling does insist on Stanton accompanying him when he is taken to first the Prior and then to the Archbishop of Canterbury. Two and a half years previously, a row of cottages caught fire outside the Cathedral’s gate. The citizens brought the fire under control and everyone celebrated. What they didn’t know was that sparks had flown onto the Cathedral’s roof and ignited both the roof and the underlying beams. Horrendous damage had been done before the fire had been put out. Ever since a team of builders and stone masons had been toiling to rebuild the damaged sections. One of these stone masons had been found, murdered horribly, days previously. Prior Benedict had been investigating but had made no progress. The Archbishop had written to the King’s Justice, Hugh de Granville, requesting help. Help that is desperately needed because the King is on his way to celebrate Easter at Canterbury. He will arrive in four days and the murder must be solved before then. Everyone though it most propitious that the very man for the job Aelred Barling, was already on his way to Canterbury. What luck! Except that, to Barling, every second’s delay to his pilgrimage is torture.
The victim was Peter Flocke. He was stabbed several times in an apparent frenzy and then the sign of the cross was carved on his forehead. Sacrilege! Barling and Stanton begin their investigation. They meet Lambert Green, the second in charge mason. William Sens, the master mason, is seldom on site. Green runs the works day by day and he is obviously a bully and a task master according to Stanton but is simply a boss keeping on top of his, no doubt slacking, workers according to Barling. They meet Brother William, in charge of recording the miracles claimed in connection with the shrine of Thomas Becket. Brother William’s remarks confirm their assessment that Prior Benedict is not up to his job. He also reveals tensions between the monks who believe that only by praying and making offerings to saints such as Thomas Becket will heal the sick and the physicians such as Gilbert Ordway and the herbalists such as Margaret Clemence, who offer medicines and salves. Flocke’s widow reveals that Flocke had been ill and that offerings had been made at the Cathedral and medicines sought from both Ordway and Clemence. While Barling seeks out Ordway, Stanton tracks down Adam Drake, rough mason, the man who found the body. To his delight, and Barling’s dismay, Drake will be found at the Roulf Inn, an ale house. Barling is back to his assumption that Stanton will drink too much and enjoy himself at every opportunity, instead of doing his job. Stanton is increasingly annoyed with Barlings’s assumptions and with his undervaluing Stanton’s contributions. With each day in Canterbury, the gulf of fear and mistrust between Barling and Stanton widens.
To make matters worse, their investigation has hardly begun when a second victim turns up. This time it’s Robert Norwood, a well known figure in Canterbury for his filthiness and his madness. No one there knows that he killed a man for sleeping with his wife. He has been set a penance by his parish priest to make a pilgrimage for three years, visiting pilgrimage sites, continuously on the move, fasting, to cleanse his soul of the foul crime of murder. Now the three years are almost up and he has been driven mad because he knows he does not repent. He is still glad he killed the man. He is desperate for Thomas Becket’s intercession to save his soul. Before this can happen, he is found dead, with multiple stab wounds and a cross carved into his forehead.
Barling cannot find a pattern. The same hand killed both men but there is no link between the victims. When a third victim, Martin Eustace, sacked stone mason reduced to lime kiln burner, turns up at the lime pits, the picture is even more confused. Pressure pours down on Barling’s head from above while, with every delay to his penance, he applies pressure to himself from within. He snaps at Stanton continuously. And Stanton gets fed up with it. When a young woman, Elena Whitehead, interrupts their investigation to ask for help with finding her missing sister, Sybil, Barling is rude but Stanton is receptive. Barling assumes that Stanton is simply chasing skirt and Stanton thinks that Barling is hard. The wedge between them is almost driven home. With the discovery of the fourth victim, Barling has a breakthrough and believes he’s found the murderers on his own. When he tries to find Stanton to crow, he can’t. And searching for Stanton makes him realise he’s made a terrible mistake. If he can’t find Stanton in time, this mistake will cost Stanton his life.
I think this series keeps getting better and better. I have loved watching the relationship develop between the two men, each with a secret that pushes them in opposite directions but something keeps bringing them back together. I found the ending quite touching. I also love the historical detail which adds a great deal of colour to the stories whilst feeling completely natural, ie. not shoe horned in or show offy. I look forward to their next outing.
After the revelations about Barling’s past at the end of Book 2, Stanton had hoped their relationship had entered a new phase, from endlessly lecturing master and pupil to friends. However, he has been disappointed. Barling is back to his superior, distant former self. When Barling decides to make a pilgrimage to the shrine of Thomas Becket at Canterbury Cathedral, Stanton is ordered to accompany him. Stanton is forced to watch Barling exhaust his meagre strength through extreme fasting and exertion. Barling even insists on covering the last few miles in bare feet. All this means that when they finally reach Canterbury and join the long, long line of pilgrims waiting for their chance to ask for the saint’s help, Barling is filthy, spent and in pain. What Stanton doesn’t know is that Barling is terrified. He has confessed his past sins, the same ones he confessed to Stanton, to his parish priest and been told that his very soul is in peril. He must cleanse himself of his terrible sins by making this pilgrimage or he will burn in Hell forever. The pressure of this has returned Barling to his former waspish, isolated self. He stands in the queue at Canterbury with his soul hanging in the balance when he is yanked out of it, by a monk, who says that Prior Benedict of Christ Church must see him, immediately.
Barling does insist on Stanton accompanying him when he is taken to first the Prior and then to the Archbishop of Canterbury. Two and a half years previously, a row of cottages caught fire outside the Cathedral’s gate. The citizens brought the fire under control and everyone celebrated. What they didn’t know was that sparks had flown onto the Cathedral’s roof and ignited both the roof and the underlying beams. Horrendous damage had been done before the fire had been put out. Ever since a team of builders and stone masons had been toiling to rebuild the damaged sections. One of these stone masons had been found, murdered horribly, days previously. Prior Benedict had been investigating but had made no progress. The Archbishop had written to the King’s Justice, Hugh de Granville, requesting help. Help that is desperately needed because the King is on his way to celebrate Easter at Canterbury. He will arrive in four days and the murder must be solved before then. Everyone though it most propitious that the very man for the job Aelred Barling, was already on his way to Canterbury. What luck! Except that, to Barling, every second’s delay to his pilgrimage is torture.
The victim was Peter Flocke. He was stabbed several times in an apparent frenzy and then the sign of the cross was carved on his forehead. Sacrilege! Barling and Stanton begin their investigation. They meet Lambert Green, the second in charge mason. William Sens, the master mason, is seldom on site. Green runs the works day by day and he is obviously a bully and a task master according to Stanton but is simply a boss keeping on top of his, no doubt slacking, workers according to Barling. They meet Brother William, in charge of recording the miracles claimed in connection with the shrine of Thomas Becket. Brother William’s remarks confirm their assessment that Prior Benedict is not up to his job. He also reveals tensions between the monks who believe that only by praying and making offerings to saints such as Thomas Becket will heal the sick and the physicians such as Gilbert Ordway and the herbalists such as Margaret Clemence, who offer medicines and salves. Flocke’s widow reveals that Flocke had been ill and that offerings had been made at the Cathedral and medicines sought from both Ordway and Clemence. While Barling seeks out Ordway, Stanton tracks down Adam Drake, rough mason, the man who found the body. To his delight, and Barling’s dismay, Drake will be found at the Roulf Inn, an ale house. Barling is back to his assumption that Stanton will drink too much and enjoy himself at every opportunity, instead of doing his job. Stanton is increasingly annoyed with Barlings’s assumptions and with his undervaluing Stanton’s contributions. With each day in Canterbury, the gulf of fear and mistrust between Barling and Stanton widens.
To make matters worse, their investigation has hardly begun when a second victim turns up. This time it’s Robert Norwood, a well known figure in Canterbury for his filthiness and his madness. No one there knows that he killed a man for sleeping with his wife. He has been set a penance by his parish priest to make a pilgrimage for three years, visiting pilgrimage sites, continuously on the move, fasting, to cleanse his soul of the foul crime of murder. Now the three years are almost up and he has been driven mad because he knows he does not repent. He is still glad he killed the man. He is desperate for Thomas Becket’s intercession to save his soul. Before this can happen, he is found dead, with multiple stab wounds and a cross carved into his forehead.
Barling cannot find a pattern. The same hand killed both men but there is no link between the victims. When a third victim, Martin Eustace, sacked stone mason reduced to lime kiln burner, turns up at the lime pits, the picture is even more confused. Pressure pours down on Barling’s head from above while, with every delay to his penance, he applies pressure to himself from within. He snaps at Stanton continuously. And Stanton gets fed up with it. When a young woman, Elena Whitehead, interrupts their investigation to ask for help with finding her missing sister, Sybil, Barling is rude but Stanton is receptive. Barling assumes that Stanton is simply chasing skirt and Stanton thinks that Barling is hard. The wedge between them is almost driven home. With the discovery of the fourth victim, Barling has a breakthrough and believes he’s found the murderers on his own. When he tries to find Stanton to crow, he can’t. And searching for Stanton makes him realise he’s made a terrible mistake. If he can’t find Stanton in time, this mistake will cost Stanton his life.
I think this series keeps getting better and better. I have loved watching the relationship develop between the two men, each with a secret that pushes them in opposite directions but something keeps bringing them back together. I found the ending quite touching. I also love the historical detail which adds a great deal of colour to the stories whilst feeling completely natural, ie. not shoe horned in or show offy. I look forward to their next outing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2020
When I first learned that Stanton and Barling were returning for another mystery, the song "The Boys are Back in Town" kept playing through my head. And the boys are indeed back with another mystery and with a growing body count. I missed these guys!
Loved the mystery, loved learning more about our medieval sleuths, especially Barling who was having a moral crisis and was hoping for salvation at the tomb of St. Thomas. The historical details of the cathedral, pilgrims and surrounding towns were also fabulous and added a richness to the story. And I did not guess who did it, so kudos to the author for keeping me guessing.
A very strong instalment of an excellent medieval mystery series and well-worth the trip back to Canterbury.
Loved the mystery, loved learning more about our medieval sleuths, especially Barling who was having a moral crisis and was hoping for salvation at the tomb of St. Thomas. The historical details of the cathedral, pilgrims and surrounding towns were also fabulous and added a richness to the story. And I did not guess who did it, so kudos to the author for keeping me guessing.
A very strong instalment of an excellent medieval mystery series and well-worth the trip back to Canterbury.
January 15, 2021
This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers
The Canterbury Murders, is the third installment in the Stanton and Barling series.
Long time friends Thomas Beckett and King Henry II, soon clashed over clerical privilege. Henry stated that the church was subject to the law of the land, but Becket insisted that the Church was above the law.
Four of Henry’s knights slayed Becket upon The High alter in the church of Canterbury. Set only seven years after Becketts Murder in the year 1177.The Christ Church of Canterbury has become a famous holy place for pilgrims.
In the year 1174, a devastating fire destroys the roof and the famous choir of Canterbury Cathedral where the mortal remains of Saint Thomas Beckett reside.
Prior Benedict is overseeing the massive restoration and rebuilding of one the. Most holiest of sites in the 12 century of England.
Hugo Stanton and Aelred Barling, the King’s clerk set out on a pilgrimage to the tomb of Saint Thomas Becket.
Soon after their arrival Benedict the Prior and The Archbishop Richard summons both Barling and his young assistant Stanton. They discloses that a stonemason has been found murdered. The Mason’s face was mutilated. A cut deep into his forehead, the holy Cross of Christ. There is urgency because count Philip of Flanders is on his way to visit the Martyrs tomb. Not wanting to out done King Henry is making his way and will arrive in four days. Barlings own personal reason for visiting the the tomb will have to wait. Now that they must find the killer.
As the two move through the investigation process, each men have their own unique way have gathering information. Things take a dark turn, and soon the body count becomes quite high.
This medieval thriller takes on a different turn with Barling, being so wrapped up in his own personal unrequited guilt. Leaving the investigation to Stanton this time. All the while Stanton is feeling at a loss as to why his friend, Barling has become so distant and reserved. Barling is struggling emotionally, dealing with his own internal turmoil.
This was a highly addictive read. It took off exceptionally fast. You are catapulted into the twelfth century. The atmospheric imagery, along with details of the people’s lives and their religious beliefs are brought to life. This meticulously researched historical was phenomenal. The plot line keeps you flipping through the pages and the rich details made me feel like I was front and center.
The characters were splendid and well developed, and the sub characters should be noted also The murder mystery takes center stage as the storyline unfolds and there are some intriguing twists. The two main POV’s will come to heads, as the intensity of finding the perpetrator mounts along with the death toll. It’s a riveting historical murder mystery for sure, and I felt invested into the lives of the characters within the pages.
This was a great exceptional written historical mystery set to the famous Christ Church of Canterbury during the the 12th century!
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers
The Canterbury Murders, is the third installment in the Stanton and Barling series.
Long time friends Thomas Beckett and King Henry II, soon clashed over clerical privilege. Henry stated that the church was subject to the law of the land, but Becket insisted that the Church was above the law.
Four of Henry’s knights slayed Becket upon The High alter in the church of Canterbury. Set only seven years after Becketts Murder in the year 1177.The Christ Church of Canterbury has become a famous holy place for pilgrims.
In the year 1174, a devastating fire destroys the roof and the famous choir of Canterbury Cathedral where the mortal remains of Saint Thomas Beckett reside.
Prior Benedict is overseeing the massive restoration and rebuilding of one the. Most holiest of sites in the 12 century of England.
Hugo Stanton and Aelred Barling, the King’s clerk set out on a pilgrimage to the tomb of Saint Thomas Becket.
Soon after their arrival Benedict the Prior and The Archbishop Richard summons both Barling and his young assistant Stanton. They discloses that a stonemason has been found murdered. The Mason’s face was mutilated. A cut deep into his forehead, the holy Cross of Christ. There is urgency because count Philip of Flanders is on his way to visit the Martyrs tomb. Not wanting to out done King Henry is making his way and will arrive in four days. Barlings own personal reason for visiting the the tomb will have to wait. Now that they must find the killer.
As the two move through the investigation process, each men have their own unique way have gathering information. Things take a dark turn, and soon the body count becomes quite high.
This medieval thriller takes on a different turn with Barling, being so wrapped up in his own personal unrequited guilt. Leaving the investigation to Stanton this time. All the while Stanton is feeling at a loss as to why his friend, Barling has become so distant and reserved. Barling is struggling emotionally, dealing with his own internal turmoil.
This was a highly addictive read. It took off exceptionally fast. You are catapulted into the twelfth century. The atmospheric imagery, along with details of the people’s lives and their religious beliefs are brought to life. This meticulously researched historical was phenomenal. The plot line keeps you flipping through the pages and the rich details made me feel like I was front and center.
The characters were splendid and well developed, and the sub characters should be noted also The murder mystery takes center stage as the storyline unfolds and there are some intriguing twists. The two main POV’s will come to heads, as the intensity of finding the perpetrator mounts along with the death toll. It’s a riveting historical murder mystery for sure, and I felt invested into the lives of the characters within the pages.
This was a great exceptional written historical mystery set to the famous Christ Church of Canterbury during the the 12th century!
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