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A Bradecote and Catchpoll Investigation #9
Wolf at the Door
The vicious death of a man at the teeth of a wild animal does not add up for Bradecote and Catchpoll.
All Hallows' Eve, 1144. The savaged body of Durand Wuduweard, the solitary and unpopular keeper of the King's Forest of Feckenham, is discovered beside his hearth, his corpse rendered barely identifiable by sharp teeth.
Whispers of a wolf on the prowl grow louder and Sheriff William de Beauchamp's men, Hugh Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll and young Walkelin, are tasked with cutting through the clamour. They must uncover who killed Durand and why, while beset by superstitious villagers, raids upon manors and further grim deaths. Out of the shadows of the forest, where will the wolf 's fangs strike next?
All Hallows' Eve, 1144. The savaged body of Durand Wuduweard, the solitary and unpopular keeper of the King's Forest of Feckenham, is discovered beside his hearth, his corpse rendered barely identifiable by sharp teeth.
Whispers of a wolf on the prowl grow louder and Sheriff William de Beauchamp's men, Hugh Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll and young Walkelin, are tasked with cutting through the clamour. They must uncover who killed Durand and why, while beset by superstitious villagers, raids upon manors and further grim deaths. Out of the shadows of the forest, where will the wolf 's fangs strike next?
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2021
About the author
Sarah Hawkswood
26 books120 followersSarah Hawkswood describes herself as a ‘wordsmith’ who is only really happy when writing. She read Modern History at Oxford and her factual book on the Royal Marines in the First World War, From Trench and Turret, was published in 2006. She also writes Regency romance as Sophia Holloway. The Bradecote and Catchpoll series are her first novels.
She takes her pen name from one of her eighteenth century ancestors who lived in Worcestershire, and selected it because the initials match those of her maiden name. She is married, with two grown up children, and now lives in Worcestershire.
She is a member of the Crime Writers’ Association, the Historical Writers’ Association, and the Historical Novel Society.
You can contact her at sarahhawkswood@gmail.com
She takes her pen name from one of her eighteenth century ancestors who lived in Worcestershire, and selected it because the initials match those of her maiden name. She is married, with two grown up children, and now lives in Worcestershire.
She is a member of the Crime Writers’ Association, the Historical Writers’ Association, and the Historical Novel Society.
You can contact her at sarahhawkswood@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
August 20, 2021
Dark deeds in medieval times!
It’s All Hallows’ Eve 1144. The mauled body of the Keeper of the King’s Forest of Feckenham, near Worcester, is discovered. Unfortunately it turns out a man disliked by all. The villagers are whispering wolves or even a Werewulf!
Undersheriff Lord Hugh Bradecote and Serjeant Catchpoll are called into investigate. Puzzling! After all, “What wolf would enter a village?” and into a home? What they found was murder and a deeply lain plot of revenge and retribution that led from one end of the King’s forest to the other. Too many coincidences need to be turned into cold, hard proof.
I loved the way Walkelin, Catchpoll’s serjeanting assistant, begins to come into his own. He’s a quick study and begins to even sound a little like his mentor.
Beyond that Hawkswood gives us a fascinating look into the various stratus of society and the way all interacted; the social, political and legal aspects.
So enjoyable!
An Allison & Busby ARC via NetGalley
It’s All Hallows’ Eve 1144. The mauled body of the Keeper of the King’s Forest of Feckenham, near Worcester, is discovered. Unfortunately it turns out a man disliked by all. The villagers are whispering wolves or even a Werewulf!
Undersheriff Lord Hugh Bradecote and Serjeant Catchpoll are called into investigate. Puzzling! After all, “What wolf would enter a village?” and into a home? What they found was murder and a deeply lain plot of revenge and retribution that led from one end of the King’s forest to the other. Too many coincidences need to be turned into cold, hard proof.
I loved the way Walkelin, Catchpoll’s serjeanting assistant, begins to come into his own. He’s a quick study and begins to even sound a little like his mentor.
Beyond that Hawkswood gives us a fascinating look into the various stratus of society and the way all interacted; the social, political and legal aspects.
So enjoyable!
An Allison & Busby ARC via NetGalley
August 27, 2021
A new instalment in Sarah Hawkswood's brilliant Bradecote and Catchpoll historical mystery series - Yippee! I was a latecomer to the series, but now it's one of my favourites.
It's All Hallows' Eve (now more widely known by the Scottish name Hallowe'en) 1144, and winter is closing in on rural Worcestershire. Father Hildebert, the parish priest of the village of Feckenham, is disturbed by a frantic pounding on his door. It's William, son of Durand Wuduweard, the local forest warden, reporting that his father lies dead, violently attacked inside his modest cottage not far from the village. Hurried investigations by the village hierarchy reveal a macabre scene - Durand's body has apparently been ravaged by a wolf!
Serjeant Catchpoll, accompanied by his apprentice-come-under-serjeant Walkelin, are dispatched to investigate by William de Beauchamp, lord Sheriff of Worcester. They're later joined, somewhat reluctantly, by under-Sheriff Hugh Bradecote, whose cherished lady wife, Christina, is shortly due to give birth to their first child together. Meanwhile, the irascible de Beauchamp gathers a hunting party to track down the wolf that's been heard howling in the area of the King's hunting lodge at Feckenham.
It doesn't take long for the investigative team to determine that things aren't as simple as they might first appear - while Durand's remains show signs of a canine attack, it makes no sense that a wild animal would enter his abode. Another brutal attack and a series of raids carried out by a band of brigands lead Bradecote, Catchpoll and Walkelin to suspect a criminal conspiracy surrounding Durand's death.
Wolf at the Door builds upon the excellent characterisation of the central trio from previous books in the series, with young Walkelin increasingly showing his maturity and detecting skills. Supporting characters are also well-conceived and believable, many of their preoccupations and conflicts underlining how little has really changed beneath the surface of human experience in the past millennium. The plotting around the mystery itself is complex and intriguing, well suited to Hawkswood's setting of the spooky forest, isolated dwellings and lonely pathways. I had the impression that Hawkswood has stepped up a gear in terms of historical content and language in this ninth instalment in the series, which lent even greater authenticity to the whole.
I believe Wolf at the Door would be a stimulating and enjoyable read, either as a standalone or in series order, for all readers who enjoy high quality mysteries and/or authentic mediaeval-era historical fiction. I'm curious as to whether the rights to the series have been sold for adaptation, as the books would make the basis of a fabulous television series.
My thanks to the author, Sarah Hawkswood, publisher Allison & Busby and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy of this title.
It's All Hallows' Eve (now more widely known by the Scottish name Hallowe'en) 1144, and winter is closing in on rural Worcestershire. Father Hildebert, the parish priest of the village of Feckenham, is disturbed by a frantic pounding on his door. It's William, son of Durand Wuduweard, the local forest warden, reporting that his father lies dead, violently attacked inside his modest cottage not far from the village. Hurried investigations by the village hierarchy reveal a macabre scene - Durand's body has apparently been ravaged by a wolf!
Serjeant Catchpoll, accompanied by his apprentice-come-under-serjeant Walkelin, are dispatched to investigate by William de Beauchamp, lord Sheriff of Worcester. They're later joined, somewhat reluctantly, by under-Sheriff Hugh Bradecote, whose cherished lady wife, Christina, is shortly due to give birth to their first child together. Meanwhile, the irascible de Beauchamp gathers a hunting party to track down the wolf that's been heard howling in the area of the King's hunting lodge at Feckenham.
It doesn't take long for the investigative team to determine that things aren't as simple as they might first appear - while Durand's remains show signs of a canine attack, it makes no sense that a wild animal would enter his abode. Another brutal attack and a series of raids carried out by a band of brigands lead Bradecote, Catchpoll and Walkelin to suspect a criminal conspiracy surrounding Durand's death.
Wolf at the Door builds upon the excellent characterisation of the central trio from previous books in the series, with young Walkelin increasingly showing his maturity and detecting skills. Supporting characters are also well-conceived and believable, many of their preoccupations and conflicts underlining how little has really changed beneath the surface of human experience in the past millennium. The plotting around the mystery itself is complex and intriguing, well suited to Hawkswood's setting of the spooky forest, isolated dwellings and lonely pathways. I had the impression that Hawkswood has stepped up a gear in terms of historical content and language in this ninth instalment in the series, which lent even greater authenticity to the whole.
I believe Wolf at the Door would be a stimulating and enjoyable read, either as a standalone or in series order, for all readers who enjoy high quality mysteries and/or authentic mediaeval-era historical fiction. I'm curious as to whether the rights to the series have been sold for adaptation, as the books would make the basis of a fabulous television series.
My thanks to the author, Sarah Hawkswood, publisher Allison & Busby and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy of this title.
August 19, 2021
My thanks to Allison and Busby and NetGalley for a review copy of the book.
Wolf at the Door is book 9 in Hawkswood’s Bradecote and Catchpoll series of mediaeval mysteries, something that I didn’t realise when requesting the book, but I am very glad I didn’t for I may have hesitated and missed out on discovering an interesting historical mystery series.
The book is set in Feckenham Village (and Forest) in Worcestershire in 1144, in the period when there was civil war between King Stephen and Empress Maud (also the period when the Cadfael mysteries are set); Feckenham was historically a royal forest in which the King had rights over game, grazing and wood. In our story, in the village of Feckenham, the body of Durand Wuduweard, the much disliked keeper of the forest is discovered, in a badly mauled state, by his no-good son, William. William begins to point fingers to this being the work of a wolf, or worse still, a werewolf, causing much panic among the villagers.
The matter reaches the ears of our main characters, the Undersheriff Lord Bradecote, and Serjeant Catchpoll. Catchpoll who hears of it first, is convinced that William fitzDurand or William Swicol (deceitful/treacherous) as he is known by them is involved but can’t immediately point at how or why. A wolf is involved in the killing, but this can be no ordinary wolf for no wild animal would have entered the house of the Wuduweard if a fire was burning, and the position in which the body is found is not the work of a wolf either. But with rumours and fears of a wolf and even a werewolf spreading like wildfire, the experienced and shrewd Catchpoll calls in Hugh Bradecote the Undersheriff, and William de Beuchamp, the Sheriff himself. They are assisted by young Walkelin, Catchpoll’s apprentice.
While the Sheriff’s men are convinced that the murder is not the work of an animal alone, rumours and fear must be quietened so they plan to investigate while the Sheriff himself must lead a false hunt to calm his people. But things don’t go quite as planned as more events take place adding to the mystery. On the one side we follow Bradecote, Catchpoll and Walkelin as they try to discover what it is that William Swicol is up to; on the other we get a glimpse into the activities of Swicol and his band, getting a few hints but not seeing any of the secrets they hide. With marauders beginning to strike and more gruesome deaths, the sherival team must work fast as Swicol and his gang give effect to their big plan.
I had requested this mystery because of its historical setting, and found this element very well done. The atmosphere, descriptions, and characters felt really authentic and true to the time. From the meals of pottage to the language, the atmosphere in the village, and people’s mores and reactions, all of it felt apt to the time and I enjoyed it very much.
The two main characters, Catchpoll and Bradecote also appealed to me a lot. Catchpoll is the elder of the two, perceptive and also has some cheek in him. Bradecote while the former’s social superior has no airs about himself, and works well with the former (and is even sometimes even dictated to by him). I loved the banter between the two.
As concerns the mystery, while to an extent we do know part of the whodunit, and we do get an insight into what William Swicol’s band is upto, we don’t really know all, so the mystery involves why, what they are up to, as well as some mystery as to who all are involved with Swicol. I enjoyed watching how the sherival party conducted their inquiries (with Young Walkelin falling into a trap once, and also getting some help from unexpected quarters), and how information and messages were sent to both authorities and people. The mystery had its twists and while I had guessed one part (mostly because of a TV mystery set in a completely different time and context that I had watched last week), there was enough of a surprise for me to enjoy the book.
Also, the fact that this was a later volume in the series didn’t really affect my enjoyment of it; there are references to a few past cases and things, but none of it affects one’s reading of the story, so this can be easily read as a standalone.
I also liked Hawkswood’s writing, and the book kept me engaged for the most part, though in some places, it did move a little slower than I’d have liked. But a really interesting read overall, with a mystery that does keep one guessing, likeable characters and authentic historical detail. I shall certainly be looking up previous instalments, and await the next one in the series eagerly.
4 stars.
Wolf at the Door is book 9 in Hawkswood’s Bradecote and Catchpoll series of mediaeval mysteries, something that I didn’t realise when requesting the book, but I am very glad I didn’t for I may have hesitated and missed out on discovering an interesting historical mystery series.
The book is set in Feckenham Village (and Forest) in Worcestershire in 1144, in the period when there was civil war between King Stephen and Empress Maud (also the period when the Cadfael mysteries are set); Feckenham was historically a royal forest in which the King had rights over game, grazing and wood. In our story, in the village of Feckenham, the body of Durand Wuduweard, the much disliked keeper of the forest is discovered, in a badly mauled state, by his no-good son, William. William begins to point fingers to this being the work of a wolf, or worse still, a werewolf, causing much panic among the villagers.
The matter reaches the ears of our main characters, the Undersheriff Lord Bradecote, and Serjeant Catchpoll. Catchpoll who hears of it first, is convinced that William fitzDurand or William Swicol (deceitful/treacherous) as he is known by them is involved but can’t immediately point at how or why. A wolf is involved in the killing, but this can be no ordinary wolf for no wild animal would have entered the house of the Wuduweard if a fire was burning, and the position in which the body is found is not the work of a wolf either. But with rumours and fears of a wolf and even a werewolf spreading like wildfire, the experienced and shrewd Catchpoll calls in Hugh Bradecote the Undersheriff, and William de Beuchamp, the Sheriff himself. They are assisted by young Walkelin, Catchpoll’s apprentice.
While the Sheriff’s men are convinced that the murder is not the work of an animal alone, rumours and fear must be quietened so they plan to investigate while the Sheriff himself must lead a false hunt to calm his people. But things don’t go quite as planned as more events take place adding to the mystery. On the one side we follow Bradecote, Catchpoll and Walkelin as they try to discover what it is that William Swicol is up to; on the other we get a glimpse into the activities of Swicol and his band, getting a few hints but not seeing any of the secrets they hide. With marauders beginning to strike and more gruesome deaths, the sherival team must work fast as Swicol and his gang give effect to their big plan.
I had requested this mystery because of its historical setting, and found this element very well done. The atmosphere, descriptions, and characters felt really authentic and true to the time. From the meals of pottage to the language, the atmosphere in the village, and people’s mores and reactions, all of it felt apt to the time and I enjoyed it very much.
The two main characters, Catchpoll and Bradecote also appealed to me a lot. Catchpoll is the elder of the two, perceptive and also has some cheek in him. Bradecote while the former’s social superior has no airs about himself, and works well with the former (and is even sometimes even dictated to by him). I loved the banter between the two.
As concerns the mystery, while to an extent we do know part of the whodunit, and we do get an insight into what William Swicol’s band is upto, we don’t really know all, so the mystery involves why, what they are up to, as well as some mystery as to who all are involved with Swicol. I enjoyed watching how the sherival party conducted their inquiries (with Young Walkelin falling into a trap once, and also getting some help from unexpected quarters), and how information and messages were sent to both authorities and people. The mystery had its twists and while I had guessed one part (mostly because of a TV mystery set in a completely different time and context that I had watched last week), there was enough of a surprise for me to enjoy the book.
Also, the fact that this was a later volume in the series didn’t really affect my enjoyment of it; there are references to a few past cases and things, but none of it affects one’s reading of the story, so this can be easily read as a standalone.
I also liked Hawkswood’s writing, and the book kept me engaged for the most part, though in some places, it did move a little slower than I’d have liked. But a really interesting read overall, with a mystery that does keep one guessing, likeable characters and authentic historical detail. I shall certainly be looking up previous instalments, and await the next one in the series eagerly.
4 stars.
September 29, 2021
I enjoyed this mystery. A dead man is discovered by his son, but even if he is disfigured everybody supposed is the father. The police is trying to find out the truth, is it a wolf or a werewolf?
The book is well written and the characters are enjoyable.
Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC.
The book is well written and the characters are enjoyable.
Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC.
August 26, 2021
I love this historical mystery series (set during the anarchy of the 12th century in Worcestershire) and its characters, Undersheriff Lord Bradecote and Searjant Catchpoll, here also accompanied by young Walkelin, Catchpoll´s apprentice.
The 9th book in the series is rather dark, but written after a real crime. In the book a gruesome murder is commited on Durand Wuruweard, the keeper of the King´s forests. Judging from the title a wolf might be involved - or not? Or was it a werewolf? Rumours and fear circulate, and several other events confuse the clearing of the mystery..
Though the cruelty in this story is (as I found out in the end) not unusual in the mediaeval settings, it wasn´t so much to my taste, and the different figures and events sometimes confused me. On the whole I enjoyed the book though and the underlying humour especially in the main three "detectives". Looking ahead to the next installment in the series!
Thanks to Alison & Busby and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The 9th book in the series is rather dark, but written after a real crime. In the book a gruesome murder is commited on Durand Wuruweard, the keeper of the King´s forests. Judging from the title a wolf might be involved - or not? Or was it a werewolf? Rumours and fear circulate, and several other events confuse the clearing of the mystery..
Though the cruelty in this story is (as I found out in the end) not unusual in the mediaeval settings, it wasn´t so much to my taste, and the different figures and events sometimes confused me. On the whole I enjoyed the book though and the underlying humour especially in the main three "detectives". Looking ahead to the next installment in the series!
Thanks to Alison & Busby and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2021
I’ve become a big fan of Sarah Hawkswood’s historical mystery series set in medieval Worcestershire and featuring Hugh Bradecote, Undersheriff of Worcestershire, his assistant Serjeant Catchpoll, and Catchpoll’s protege, Walkelin. Luckily new books in the series are coming thick and fast with River of Sins published in November 2020 and Blood Runs Thicker in March this year.
Although the ninth in the series, I can reassure readers that Wolf at the Door can definitely be enjoyed without having read any of the previous books. The references to earlier events and to the back stories of the leading characters will help to bring new readers up-to-date.
As with previous books, Wolf at the Door has all the features of a police procedural but transported to medieval times: examining crime scenes (rather gruesome ones in this case), gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses and identifying possible suspects. Walkelin even tries his hand at the odd spot of surveillance.
Bradecote and Catchpoll make a great team. Catchpoll has an in-depth knowledge of their patch, the ne’er do wells who reside in it and possesses the keen eye of a detective. He also has a reputation for taking no nonsense. For example, when Catchpoll states his intention to have ‘interesting words’ the following morning with a suspect taken into custody, the thought of it makes several observers shudder and thank their lucky stars it’s not them. And we shouldn’t forget Walkelin, Catchpoll’s apprentice, who adds youthful enthusiasm and some keen observational skills to the mix.
Bradecote may not have the detective nous of his sergeant but he has the ability to use his status to gain access to people and places that would otherwise be denied, or to intimidate others. In fact, he and Catchpoll often use not so much a ‘good cop, bad cop’ strategy as a ‘toff cop, common cop’ approach with advantageous results. As Catchpoll grudgingly concedes, Bradecote’s ‘high-and-mighty arrogance laid on thick, works a treat’.
This time Bradecote and Catchpoll don’t just face the challenge of investigating a murder seemingly without motive but doing so within a community terrified by talk of wolves or, even worse, werewolves. Furthermore, Bradecote has a particular reason for wanting to solve the case quickly.
As the investigation progresses, there are tantalizing clues and false trails many of which seem to lead to nearby Feckenham Forest. The author keeps the tension building with some dramatic scenes as Bradecote and Catchpoll close in on the culprits and the reader discovers just what lengths they are prepared to go to.
Wolf at the Door is another skillfully crafted mystery that moves at pace and has plenty of period detail. I’m already looking forward to the next investigation for Bradecote and Catchpoll due to be published next year.
Although the ninth in the series, I can reassure readers that Wolf at the Door can definitely be enjoyed without having read any of the previous books. The references to earlier events and to the back stories of the leading characters will help to bring new readers up-to-date.
As with previous books, Wolf at the Door has all the features of a police procedural but transported to medieval times: examining crime scenes (rather gruesome ones in this case), gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses and identifying possible suspects. Walkelin even tries his hand at the odd spot of surveillance.
Bradecote and Catchpoll make a great team. Catchpoll has an in-depth knowledge of their patch, the ne’er do wells who reside in it and possesses the keen eye of a detective. He also has a reputation for taking no nonsense. For example, when Catchpoll states his intention to have ‘interesting words’ the following morning with a suspect taken into custody, the thought of it makes several observers shudder and thank their lucky stars it’s not them. And we shouldn’t forget Walkelin, Catchpoll’s apprentice, who adds youthful enthusiasm and some keen observational skills to the mix.
Bradecote may not have the detective nous of his sergeant but he has the ability to use his status to gain access to people and places that would otherwise be denied, or to intimidate others. In fact, he and Catchpoll often use not so much a ‘good cop, bad cop’ strategy as a ‘toff cop, common cop’ approach with advantageous results. As Catchpoll grudgingly concedes, Bradecote’s ‘high-and-mighty arrogance laid on thick, works a treat’.
This time Bradecote and Catchpoll don’t just face the challenge of investigating a murder seemingly without motive but doing so within a community terrified by talk of wolves or, even worse, werewolves. Furthermore, Bradecote has a particular reason for wanting to solve the case quickly.
As the investigation progresses, there are tantalizing clues and false trails many of which seem to lead to nearby Feckenham Forest. The author keeps the tension building with some dramatic scenes as Bradecote and Catchpoll close in on the culprits and the reader discovers just what lengths they are prepared to go to.
Wolf at the Door is another skillfully crafted mystery that moves at pace and has plenty of period detail. I’m already looking forward to the next investigation for Bradecote and Catchpoll due to be published next year.
August 9, 2021
Sarah Hawkswood is an author I've recently discovered and her medieval mysteries featuring the law enforcement team of Bradecote and Catchpoll is turning out to be a *must* for me. The time is 1144 and there is rumor of a killing done by a wolf, an animal not often seen around villages such as Feckenham. Then the whispers begin that this death was not caused by a wolf but a werwulf. The lord Sheriff William de Beauchamp, Undersheriff Hugh Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll and his apprentice Walkelin will have all they can handle to keep the countryside from believing there is a werwulf roaming the night especially when the victims keep adding up.
This story was absolutely dripping with tension. At one point I even considered turning to the final chapter to see what was going to happen. I did resist, but it was a close thing. The historical time period is very well used in this novel but Hawkswood doesn't insist on hitting readers over the head with descriptions of the human living conditions which existed at this point in history. There is just enough mention made of the number of humans (and sometimes animals) living in cottages, food cooking in a pot on the fire, and people dealing with the cold weather to keep me firmly aware of the time period of the story. All of the major characters were fully involved in this investigation and yet the pages never seemed to be over-crowded. I'm definitely looking forward to the next installment in this series to see if the time has come for the birthing one of the characters is awaiting. Until then, I have several previous books in the series to keep me involved in the lives of these characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for an e-galley of this novel.
This story was absolutely dripping with tension. At one point I even considered turning to the final chapter to see what was going to happen. I did resist, but it was a close thing. The historical time period is very well used in this novel but Hawkswood doesn't insist on hitting readers over the head with descriptions of the human living conditions which existed at this point in history. There is just enough mention made of the number of humans (and sometimes animals) living in cottages, food cooking in a pot on the fire, and people dealing with the cold weather to keep me firmly aware of the time period of the story. All of the major characters were fully involved in this investigation and yet the pages never seemed to be over-crowded. I'm definitely looking forward to the next installment in this series to see if the time has come for the birthing one of the characters is awaiting. Until then, I have several previous books in the series to keep me involved in the lives of these characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for an e-galley of this novel.
September 2, 2021
I will have to revisit this book in future as my devilish back had me in pain throughout the reading. I know I have enjoyed a good many of these books in the past but this one not so much. Is there a werewolf out for blood, or just a dog...as Catchpoll is assigned to discover. There is a hunt for the king's treasure by quite a number of miscreants.
January 2, 2022
I regularly find myself checking GoodReads and other book sites to see when I can anticipate the next release in Sarah Hawkswood's Bradecote and Catchpoll series. And when I do get access to one, everything else on the calendar gets crossed off so I can devote myself to reading it. The series is set in mid-12th Century Worcester and the surrounding areas and focuses, at this point, on three lawmen: Bradecote and Catchpoll of the series title and Catchpoll's apprentice Walkelin.
Bradecote is a local lord appointed as undersheriff for the shire; Catchpoll is an aging, experienced, and hardened Sergeant with a strong sense of decency hidden under his cynical exterior; Walkelin is Catchpoll's apprentice Sergeant, a more recent addition to the series, still unsure of himself, easily embarrassed, and deeply emotionally connected to the new career he's learning. Hawkswood makes clear the respect these three have for one another, but also puts some bristles in their relationship that make the respect feel all the more genuine.
This time around, the trio are investigating the death of a keeper of the king's forest, a man about whom no one has anything good to say. It appears that a wolf has entered his isolated hut, attacked him, and left the partially eaten body behind. Those in the local village are panicked by the two most accepted explanations for the killing: either there's a rogue wolf in the forest, one who's not afraid of fire and who will enter human homes, or there's a werwulf at large, entering homes in human form before changing into a wolf to do his deadly work. With howling being heard around the shire after dark, no one feels safe.
Bradecote, Catchpoll, and Walkelin acknowledge that an animal played a role in the attacks, but are not embracing either of the popular explanations, certain that a human is behind the violence. The case quickly grows more complicated with additional deaths—and fires and robberies. These events are clearly all connected, but what that connection might be remains unclear. Hawkswood crafts a puzzle that will have readers every bit as engaged and confounded as the investigative trio are.
I read a lot of historical mysteries, some better than others, and Bradecote and Catchpoll series lands right at the top of the pile. Highly recommended.
I received a free electronic review title of this book from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
Bradecote is a local lord appointed as undersheriff for the shire; Catchpoll is an aging, experienced, and hardened Sergeant with a strong sense of decency hidden under his cynical exterior; Walkelin is Catchpoll's apprentice Sergeant, a more recent addition to the series, still unsure of himself, easily embarrassed, and deeply emotionally connected to the new career he's learning. Hawkswood makes clear the respect these three have for one another, but also puts some bristles in their relationship that make the respect feel all the more genuine.
This time around, the trio are investigating the death of a keeper of the king's forest, a man about whom no one has anything good to say. It appears that a wolf has entered his isolated hut, attacked him, and left the partially eaten body behind. Those in the local village are panicked by the two most accepted explanations for the killing: either there's a rogue wolf in the forest, one who's not afraid of fire and who will enter human homes, or there's a werwulf at large, entering homes in human form before changing into a wolf to do his deadly work. With howling being heard around the shire after dark, no one feels safe.
Bradecote, Catchpoll, and Walkelin acknowledge that an animal played a role in the attacks, but are not embracing either of the popular explanations, certain that a human is behind the violence. The case quickly grows more complicated with additional deaths—and fires and robberies. These events are clearly all connected, but what that connection might be remains unclear. Hawkswood crafts a puzzle that will have readers every bit as engaged and confounded as the investigative trio are.
I read a lot of historical mysteries, some better than others, and Bradecote and Catchpoll series lands right at the top of the pile. Highly recommended.
I received a free electronic review title of this book from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
October 25, 2022
Unfortunately this didn’t do much for me. I found the language confusing and difficult to follow. The reaches in logic they made to solve these mysteries were a bit too convenient and made it less appealing. The many characters were also difficult to keep up with but tbh that’s partially because this was my first book in the series and so I wasn’t familiar with all the characters like most would be.
October 24, 2021
Another charming and engrossing medieval murder mystery set in rural Worcestershire, involving thick anger, hatreds, and wicked activities that may or may not involve scary wolves. This new addition to this amazing series, which is cleverly structured and gifted with a cast of compelling characters. Although I have heard of but never read another book of the series, I intend to do so now.
This mystery was intriguing. Is it a wolf or a werewolf? The cops are trying to figure things out.
This mystery was intriguing. Is it a wolf or a werewolf? The cops are trying to figure things out.
July 29, 2024
Audiobook narrated by Matt Addis.
It’s 1149 in Worcestershire and the mauled body of the unpopular Durand Wuduweard, lately keeper of the King’s Forest of Feckenham is found by his ne’er do well son, William. It looks like the man has been killed by a wolf, and pretty soon there are rumours of werewolves. Under-Sherriff Hugh Bradecote, Sergeant Catchpoll and Under-Sergeant Walkeling are sent to sort out the murder. Catchpoll’s gut instinct tells him it’s the son to blame for the father’s death as the two never got on, but there’s no proof. Thus begins a mystery which includes several more murders (some involving the wolf) and a gang of brigands burning and pillaging villages and manors. There’s a twist and a satisfying resolution. It’s nice to note that Walkelin is growing into his role as Catchpoll’s apprentice. Matt Addis is a good reader and does a convincing Worcestershire accent for Catchpoll and Walkelin, but still manages to make the characters audibly distinct.
It’s 1149 in Worcestershire and the mauled body of the unpopular Durand Wuduweard, lately keeper of the King’s Forest of Feckenham is found by his ne’er do well son, William. It looks like the man has been killed by a wolf, and pretty soon there are rumours of werewolves. Under-Sherriff Hugh Bradecote, Sergeant Catchpoll and Under-Sergeant Walkeling are sent to sort out the murder. Catchpoll’s gut instinct tells him it’s the son to blame for the father’s death as the two never got on, but there’s no proof. Thus begins a mystery which includes several more murders (some involving the wolf) and a gang of brigands burning and pillaging villages and manors. There’s a twist and a satisfying resolution. It’s nice to note that Walkelin is growing into his role as Catchpoll’s apprentice. Matt Addis is a good reader and does a convincing Worcestershire accent for Catchpoll and Walkelin, but still manages to make the characters audibly distinct.
August 28, 2021
This was the first book in a Bradecote and Catchpoll Investigation series I have ever read. While browsing NetGalley shelves I was intrigued by book's synopsis and decided to request it. And I can say that it was truly intriguing read. Although I needed a little bit of time to memorise names, I got used to them after a while. In addition, at the beginning I had so strong "The Hound of the Baskervilles" vibes, even in spite of the fact that the "Wolf at the Door" takes place in 12th century. This moment intrigued me even more!
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the arc copy in exchange for honest review.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the arc copy in exchange for honest review.
September 20, 2021
Murder mysteries set in ancient times might be something I need to investigate further,as I thoroughly enjoyed this.
It took me a while to slip into the way of speaking,but once that was done,I flew through the book.
The first of the series,and already I'm keen for book 2.
It took me a while to slip into the way of speaking,but once that was done,I flew through the book.
The first of the series,and already I'm keen for book 2.
November 16, 2024
dnf at 70%. quality prose, I just couldn't get over the period when it plays out.
April 30, 2022
Nice little twisty tail.
August 13, 2021
After finishing Blood Runs Thicker I have been eagerly awaiting the release of the next book in this series: Wolf At The Door. I was not disappointed. Again it's a perfect companion to cuddle up with during a quiet evening. A very engaging read, and for the Middle Ages enthusiasts: a full immersion in our favourite era. It is very well done, never 'educational' nor cringy.
The books in this medieval murder mystery series can be easily read as a standalone, but once you pick up one of them you will want to read all of them. The main characters return in every book and I've grown fond of them. I hope the author is already working on her next book.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
The books in this medieval murder mystery series can be easily read as a standalone, but once you pick up one of them you will want to read all of them. The main characters return in every book and I've grown fond of them. I hope the author is already working on her next book.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
August 19, 2021
Rather like Charles Lutwidge Dodgson’s White Rabbit, I am always late. Late, that is, to many excellent crime fiction series that have been on the go for some years. I often come to them a few books in and, having enjoyed what I have read, try to solve the dilemma, which is this. Do I abandon everything else on the TBR pile to read the earlier books, or do I shrug my shoulders and convince myself that the books will always be there, and that I will get round to them “at some point”? Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining about being a book reviewer. Publishers send me free books on the understanding that I will read them and that my reviews will help to sell the novels. That’s all good, but one gets locked in to a reading timetable that can be very unforgiving, particularly when blog tours are involved. Reading for pure pleasure and relaxation has to take a back seat, I’m afraid.
That long digression is a background to this review of the latest Bradecote and Catchpoll novel by Sarah Hawkswood. I read – and loved – two of the series, River of Sins and Blood Runs Thicker, and you can read my reviews by clicking the links. Now, the ninth in the series, Wolf At The Door, is with us, and it is every bit as good as the other two have read..
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For people who are even later arrivals to the party than I, we are in 12th century Worcestershire. Hugh Bradecote is the Under Sheriff of the county, and is of noble birth with a degree of hauteur, while Sergeant Catchpoll is Worcester through-and-through, rough and ready, but very street-wise. Walkelin – the apprentice – is something of a ‘gofer’, but is bright, perceptive, and not afraid to speak his mind. This story begins with the discovery of a man who has met a violent death. His face has been removed and his throat has been ripped out. Extensive damage to his limbs suggests an assault by a violent animal. A wolf, perhaps? But even in the Royal hunting Forest of Feckenham1, wolves have not been seen for many a year.
Hugh Bradecote is on what we could call paternity leave. He is particularly anxious about his heavily pregnant second wife, as his first wife died in childbirth. With some villagers of Feckenham convinced that Durand Wuduweard 2 was savaged by a wolf, and the more credulous of them even believing that the killing was the work of a werewolf, Bradecote has to return to duty.
We are some half way into the book before the officers have any concept of who – and what – is responsible for the death of Durand. More corpses and a savage attack on a landowner prompt an even greater sense of urgency to the quest, but then Bradecote, Catchpoll, Walkelin and their boss De Beachamp finally realise that the motive for the crimes is one of the oldest and deadliest – revenge, bitterly fermented and long standing.
One of the qualities of a natural and gifted storyteller is the ability to provide atmosphere. Sarah Hawkswood recreates a cold and grey Worcestershire at the onset of November. Many of the poorer folk will struggle to survive the next four months and will succumb to cold, hunger, disease – or a mixture of all three. The wolves may have mostly disappeared, but the forest is a dark and unforgiving place for the people who have hacked out space within it for their precarious lives. The grimly authentic setting aside, this is a bloody good detective story from one of our finest writers. Wolf at the Door is published by Allison & Busby and is out on 19th August.
Feckenham Forest was a royal forest, centred on the village of Feckenham, covering large parts of Worcestershire and west Warwickshire. It was not entirely wooded, nor entirely the property of the King. Rather, the King had legal rights over game, wood and grazing within the forest, and special courts imposed harsh penalties when these rights were violated.
A Wuduweard (old English) was the warden of a forest. It is probably the origin of the surname Woodward.
That long digression is a background to this review of the latest Bradecote and Catchpoll novel by Sarah Hawkswood. I read – and loved – two of the series, River of Sins and Blood Runs Thicker, and you can read my reviews by clicking the links. Now, the ninth in the series, Wolf At The Door, is with us, and it is every bit as good as the other two have read..
51oDlX1mapS.SX316.SY480._SL500_
For people who are even later arrivals to the party than I, we are in 12th century Worcestershire. Hugh Bradecote is the Under Sheriff of the county, and is of noble birth with a degree of hauteur, while Sergeant Catchpoll is Worcester through-and-through, rough and ready, but very street-wise. Walkelin – the apprentice – is something of a ‘gofer’, but is bright, perceptive, and not afraid to speak his mind. This story begins with the discovery of a man who has met a violent death. His face has been removed and his throat has been ripped out. Extensive damage to his limbs suggests an assault by a violent animal. A wolf, perhaps? But even in the Royal hunting Forest of Feckenham1, wolves have not been seen for many a year.
Hugh Bradecote is on what we could call paternity leave. He is particularly anxious about his heavily pregnant second wife, as his first wife died in childbirth. With some villagers of Feckenham convinced that Durand Wuduweard 2 was savaged by a wolf, and the more credulous of them even believing that the killing was the work of a werewolf, Bradecote has to return to duty.
We are some half way into the book before the officers have any concept of who – and what – is responsible for the death of Durand. More corpses and a savage attack on a landowner prompt an even greater sense of urgency to the quest, but then Bradecote, Catchpoll, Walkelin and their boss De Beachamp finally realise that the motive for the crimes is one of the oldest and deadliest – revenge, bitterly fermented and long standing.
One of the qualities of a natural and gifted storyteller is the ability to provide atmosphere. Sarah Hawkswood recreates a cold and grey Worcestershire at the onset of November. Many of the poorer folk will struggle to survive the next four months and will succumb to cold, hunger, disease – or a mixture of all three. The wolves may have mostly disappeared, but the forest is a dark and unforgiving place for the people who have hacked out space within it for their precarious lives. The grimly authentic setting aside, this is a bloody good detective story from one of our finest writers. Wolf at the Door is published by Allison & Busby and is out on 19th August.
Feckenham Forest was a royal forest, centred on the village of Feckenham, covering large parts of Worcestershire and west Warwickshire. It was not entirely wooded, nor entirely the property of the King. Rather, the King had legal rights over game, wood and grazing within the forest, and special courts imposed harsh penalties when these rights were violated.
A Wuduweard (old English) was the warden of a forest. It is probably the origin of the surname Woodward.
August 16, 2021
"All Hallow's Eve, 1144. The savaged body of Durand Wuduweard, the solitary and unpopular keeper of the King's Forest of Feckenham, is discovered beside his hearth, his corpse rendered barely identifiable by sharp teeth.
Whispers of a wolf on the prowl grow louder and Sheriff William de Beauchamp's men, Hugh Bradecote and Serjeant Catchpoll, are tasked with cutting through the clamour. They must uncover who killed Durand and why while beset by superstitious villagers, raids upon manors and further grim deaths. Out of the shadows of the forest, where will the wolf's fangs strike next? " - Synopsis from GoodReads.
This is book #9 in the Bradecote and Catchpoll Investigation series.
Alright, right off the bat, I'm going to say, I have not read the previous works in this series. So all characters and any plots from previous works was not known to me while reading this. That being said, it did not seem to cause any real issues as most of the story fills you in while not overly info dumping and slowing the progress of this particular book.
I did find Catchpoll and Bradecote very intriguing. The two kept morphing in my mind as I read. Catchpoll seems to be the grubby yet faithful detective to his younger superior and while I can't quite put my finger on the comparison of the two, I do feel as though they seem to give me some type of familarity. Like "Oh, that sounds like someone I know but I just can't put my finger on it!" - in terms of trying to build the characters in my head. Walkelin was also very endearing as well and I do find the character development with him being the young lawman still green around the gills that comes into his own a good move. Like a splash of Elementary, a splash of Sherlock (BBC), and dash it with Gotham.
There were moments where it did seem to drag out and other times where the story felt like it was stallign out but around the 65% mark, I noticed the uptick to the dreaded climate of bad things getting worse. And oh did they - (no spoilers) it did hurt the heartstrings near the end. Having not read the author's work before, I feel that now I'm inspired to go about fixing that by reading the rest of this series. Definiately a good read. It can be dark, even when there is humor laced in.
Rating: 4 Stars! 🌟🌟🌟🌟
(Also posted at my blog 👻Cassie's Haunted Library👻 and GoodReads.))
Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to review this!
Whispers of a wolf on the prowl grow louder and Sheriff William de Beauchamp's men, Hugh Bradecote and Serjeant Catchpoll, are tasked with cutting through the clamour. They must uncover who killed Durand and why while beset by superstitious villagers, raids upon manors and further grim deaths. Out of the shadows of the forest, where will the wolf's fangs strike next? " - Synopsis from GoodReads.
This is book #9 in the Bradecote and Catchpoll Investigation series.
Alright, right off the bat, I'm going to say, I have not read the previous works in this series. So all characters and any plots from previous works was not known to me while reading this. That being said, it did not seem to cause any real issues as most of the story fills you in while not overly info dumping and slowing the progress of this particular book.
I did find Catchpoll and Bradecote very intriguing. The two kept morphing in my mind as I read. Catchpoll seems to be the grubby yet faithful detective to his younger superior and while I can't quite put my finger on the comparison of the two, I do feel as though they seem to give me some type of familarity. Like "Oh, that sounds like someone I know but I just can't put my finger on it!" - in terms of trying to build the characters in my head. Walkelin was also very endearing as well and I do find the character development with him being the young lawman still green around the gills that comes into his own a good move. Like a splash of Elementary, a splash of Sherlock (BBC), and dash it with Gotham.
There were moments where it did seem to drag out and other times where the story felt like it was stallign out but around the 65% mark, I noticed the uptick to the dreaded climate of bad things getting worse. And oh did they - (no spoilers) it did hurt the heartstrings near the end. Having not read the author's work before, I feel that now I'm inspired to go about fixing that by reading the rest of this series. Definiately a good read. It can be dark, even when there is humor laced in.
Rating: 4 Stars! 🌟🌟🌟🌟
(Also posted at my blog 👻Cassie's Haunted Library👻 and GoodReads.))
Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to review this!
October 10, 2021
Taking place on All Hallows’ Eve in the year, 1144, a murder has took place at the Forest of Feckenham. And the body bears the mark of teeth.
Suspicions grow of an animal attack and it’s upto Bradecote and Catchpoll to find out if a wolf attacked and killed the unpopular keeper.
But it’s not just any normal wolf that killed the keeper. Clues soon point towards someone been responsible for his death and the ones that soon follow.
They soon find out someone is commanding the wolf but can they find out who before it strikes again?
This is the ninth in a collection of mystery novels surrounding the investigative duo, Bradecote and Catchpoll.
A brilliant and compelling book from start to finish. I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next. The author has done a fabulous job of creating a real page turner here. This is a great mystery with a bit of a difference. I loved reading about a wolf who had been controlled, trying to figure out the mystery, the really cool characters and the story for having that historical aspect.
The story is loosely based off the Records of Feckenham Forest and Geoffrey du Park whom was responsible alongside others for the murder of a young boy. He also set fire to people’s homes in order to rob them.
It reminded me very much of Sherlock Holmes which is one of my favourite detective series and I look forward to reading more from the series. You don’t necessarily have to read any of the others in the series, I didn’t feel as though I was missing out on anything whilst reading this one so you could read this one as a stand-alone.
If you love a good mystery novel, this one is for you. This is the perfect, cosy book for the autumn months coming.
Suspicions grow of an animal attack and it’s upto Bradecote and Catchpoll to find out if a wolf attacked and killed the unpopular keeper.
But it’s not just any normal wolf that killed the keeper. Clues soon point towards someone been responsible for his death and the ones that soon follow.
They soon find out someone is commanding the wolf but can they find out who before it strikes again?
This is the ninth in a collection of mystery novels surrounding the investigative duo, Bradecote and Catchpoll.
A brilliant and compelling book from start to finish. I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next. The author has done a fabulous job of creating a real page turner here. This is a great mystery with a bit of a difference. I loved reading about a wolf who had been controlled, trying to figure out the mystery, the really cool characters and the story for having that historical aspect.
The story is loosely based off the Records of Feckenham Forest and Geoffrey du Park whom was responsible alongside others for the murder of a young boy. He also set fire to people’s homes in order to rob them.
It reminded me very much of Sherlock Holmes which is one of my favourite detective series and I look forward to reading more from the series. You don’t necessarily have to read any of the others in the series, I didn’t feel as though I was missing out on anything whilst reading this one so you could read this one as a stand-alone.
If you love a good mystery novel, this one is for you. This is the perfect, cosy book for the autumn months coming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2021
Never having read anything by Sarah Hawkswood before, I was a bit apprehensive of requesting this part of an already well-progressed series. I shouldn't have worried! It is a great stand-alone read without the so often included, and extremely tedious, flashbacks to earlier books in other series. Also, I had no problem getting the characters straight. Catchpoll, Bradecote, Walkelin (especially Walkelin) and sheriff William de Beauchamp were beautifully developed; to my pleasure this was done through show rather than tell, so that their personalities kept evolving throughout the book. The plot is simply wicked, both in its conception and its execution! Although presented with a strong suspect right at the beginning of the mystery, the reader is as puzzled as the 'law' by subsequent offences that become increasingly daring and cruel. How does it all fit together? Why is so much senseless destruction happening and what is the benefit to the suspect? Is there an ultimate motive or goal? The suspense was making it really difficult to stop reading (or else to cheat - but never!!). The cherry on top for me was the setting. I love novels that play in the Middle Ages, and this was one of the best I've read so far. This means, of course, that I will have a lot of catch-up to do, to read the previous nine books in this series. I will do this in the coming winter, because it seems to me a wonderful way to spend cosy evenings curled up next to the fireplace.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this suspenseful eARC!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this suspenseful eARC!
August 24, 2021
Love the Main Characters...
Grisly, sad, horrific, violent storyline, as per usual. What makes these great is the description and language of the main characters...Bradcote Catchpoll and Walkelin..their relationships with one another grow and develop over the series and keep this reader intriguiedand wanting more. Cannot wait for the next book and hope against hope that it, finally, will include slot more details about the Female counterparts to these three men...Christina (Bradcote's wife), wife of Catchpoll, and E.(Walkelin's) love. A story that includes all three women? And includes Walkelin's Mother.. .now That is a story that would be edifying and well worth reading!I love the language used and the dialog..this writer has it down!...I especially love Catchpoll's explanations, though it takes some getting used to...HS musings are truly remarkable in their depth and clarity! I love Walkelin's growth as a fully realised character and agree with his two superiors that he will make, makes, a fine sergeant. It is so nice after reading a few of the novels about this period in modern English..(Follett, for example...yuk) that feels and sounds and Reads like a real story if the times it depicts. what a relief!!! Highly recommended... For those of us who appreciate the scholarship, research, time spent, and authenticity of this author and these books.
Grisly, sad, horrific, violent storyline, as per usual. What makes these great is the description and language of the main characters...Bradcote Catchpoll and Walkelin..their relationships with one another grow and develop over the series and keep this reader intriguiedand wanting more. Cannot wait for the next book and hope against hope that it, finally, will include slot more details about the Female counterparts to these three men...Christina (Bradcote's wife), wife of Catchpoll, and E.(Walkelin's) love. A story that includes all three women? And includes Walkelin's Mother.. .now That is a story that would be edifying and well worth reading!I love the language used and the dialog..this writer has it down!...I especially love Catchpoll's explanations, though it takes some getting used to...HS musings are truly remarkable in their depth and clarity! I love Walkelin's growth as a fully realised character and agree with his two superiors that he will make, makes, a fine sergeant. It is so nice after reading a few of the novels about this period in modern English..(Follett, for example...yuk) that feels and sounds and Reads like a real story if the times it depicts. what a relief!!! Highly recommended... For those of us who appreciate the scholarship, research, time spent, and authenticity of this author and these books.
August 30, 2021
Wolf at the Door is the ninth book in a medieval mystery series and although I have not read any of the previous books in this series I was able to enjoy this story very much! With mystery stories setting is just as important as the main characters and I am blown away by the vividness created by this author. I felt like I was back in the year 1144 and working to solve this mystery along with the MCs Sheriff William de Beauchamp's men, Bradecote and Catchpoll. The author was very authentic in her creation of this story and stayed true to the times with mannerisms, dialect, superstitions, and general way of living — I found myself researching things as I was reading the story to learn more about several historical items.
The mystery to be solved during this story is all about the big bad wolf, or was it a werewolf, and the mystical what haves of All Hallows’ Eve. Having the plot tied into the paranormal and superstitious nature of the villagers added another enjoyable aspect to the story. As for solving the central question of who the villain is — that’s something you have to experience as you read the story. I don’t want to ruin the story for anyone but I will say I wasn’t overly shocked when the villain was revealed, but the journey to the reveal is well worth reading.
I can’t wait until the next book and will be going back and reading the first eight books in the series.
4 Stars
The mystery to be solved during this story is all about the big bad wolf, or was it a werewolf, and the mystical what haves of All Hallows’ Eve. Having the plot tied into the paranormal and superstitious nature of the villagers added another enjoyable aspect to the story. As for solving the central question of who the villain is — that’s something you have to experience as you read the story. I don’t want to ruin the story for anyone but I will say I wasn’t overly shocked when the villain was revealed, but the journey to the reveal is well worth reading.
I can’t wait until the next book and will be going back and reading the first eight books in the series.
4 Stars
August 4, 2021
Wolf at the Door is my second Bradecote and Catchpoll book, and I was excited to receive an advanced copy of it. (I'm starting to collect the 'back' catalogue' as well.)
This time, the pair, well the three of them including Wakelin, are sent to discover the truth about a particularly gruesome murder, where a wolf is suspected (hence the title). What follows is a tightly constructed story where the three follow leads, some dead ends, and interact with a. deliciously mixed group of people living in Worcester and the environs in the 1100s.
I love the historical elements of the story, deeply rooted in the time, with King Stephen a spectre who could appear at any time, although he hasn't, not yet. There is more from the Sheriff of Worcester, rather than the undersheriff than in the previous book I read, and he too is an excellent character. Hats off for the mixture of Old English and Norman names, aptly highlighting the split in society, and for deciding that 'Foreign' cursing isn't quite as colourful as a bit of English cursing - (well, Catchpoll makes that observation).
An intriguing story, the mystery kept me intrigued and the ending was excellent. I look forward to the next in the series.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my review copy.
This time, the pair, well the three of them including Wakelin, are sent to discover the truth about a particularly gruesome murder, where a wolf is suspected (hence the title). What follows is a tightly constructed story where the three follow leads, some dead ends, and interact with a. deliciously mixed group of people living in Worcester and the environs in the 1100s.
I love the historical elements of the story, deeply rooted in the time, with King Stephen a spectre who could appear at any time, although he hasn't, not yet. There is more from the Sheriff of Worcester, rather than the undersheriff than in the previous book I read, and he too is an excellent character. Hats off for the mixture of Old English and Norman names, aptly highlighting the split in society, and for deciding that 'Foreign' cursing isn't quite as colourful as a bit of English cursing - (well, Catchpoll makes that observation).
An intriguing story, the mystery kept me intrigued and the ending was excellent. I look forward to the next in the series.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my review copy.
August 4, 2021
I do love these Bradcote and Catchpoll medieval mysteries and many thanks to Allison&Busby, Sarah Hawkswood and NetGalley for this ARC. I first had to check on the word "wuduweard" apparently Middle English for "wood ward" an occupational name.
Two wuduweards existed in Worcestershire one in Feckenham and one in the north of Worcestershire in Tutnall.One was a good man and the other was clearly not.
Then we had a wolf, mostly unheard of in that area, who presumably killed Durand of Feckenham.
William de Beauchamp Sheriff of Worcestershire and our main men, Undersheriff Bradcote and Serjeant Catchpoll go on the chase with an entourage of hunters,dogs and soldiers and do battle with some very evil men.
There are a lot more casualties from fires, robberies gone bad and the keepers of the wolf perpetrated on innocent people. In the end, of course, our heroes and the Sheriff captured and took back to their fate these outlaws. Walkelin the young assistant to Catchpoll is elevated to "Underserjeant Walkelin"-a good way to end the story. This series never fails to be unique and exciting. I recommend it strongly!
Two wuduweards existed in Worcestershire one in Feckenham and one in the north of Worcestershire in Tutnall.One was a good man and the other was clearly not.
Then we had a wolf, mostly unheard of in that area, who presumably killed Durand of Feckenham.
William de Beauchamp Sheriff of Worcestershire and our main men, Undersheriff Bradcote and Serjeant Catchpoll go on the chase with an entourage of hunters,dogs and soldiers and do battle with some very evil men.
There are a lot more casualties from fires, robberies gone bad and the keepers of the wolf perpetrated on innocent people. In the end, of course, our heroes and the Sheriff captured and took back to their fate these outlaws. Walkelin the young assistant to Catchpoll is elevated to "Underserjeant Walkelin"-a good way to end the story. This series never fails to be unique and exciting. I recommend it strongly!
August 6, 2021
All Hallows' Eve, 1144.
The savaged body of Durand Wuduweard, the solitary and unpopular keeper of the King's Forest of Feckenham, is discovered beside his hearth, his corpse rendered barely identifiable by sharp teeth.
Whispers of a wolf on the prowl grow louder and Sheriff William de Beauchamp's men, Hugh Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll and young Walkelin, are tasked with cutting through the clamour. They must uncover who killed Durand and why, while beset by superstitious villagers, raids upon manors and further grim deaths. Out of the shadows of the forest, where will the wolf's fangs strike next?
This book is part of a series but I read it easily as a stand alone although I am now left wanting to read more! I really enjoyed this complicated mystery, the more clues that were discovered the more confused i became but it was really well executed. I loved the dialogue between our lawmen, I felt like part of the conversation. I also loved the language which of course reads the way it was spoken at the time.
Thank you so much to allison and busby for my #gifted copy and allowing me to be part of the blog tour.
The savaged body of Durand Wuduweard, the solitary and unpopular keeper of the King's Forest of Feckenham, is discovered beside his hearth, his corpse rendered barely identifiable by sharp teeth.
Whispers of a wolf on the prowl grow louder and Sheriff William de Beauchamp's men, Hugh Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll and young Walkelin, are tasked with cutting through the clamour. They must uncover who killed Durand and why, while beset by superstitious villagers, raids upon manors and further grim deaths. Out of the shadows of the forest, where will the wolf's fangs strike next?
This book is part of a series but I read it easily as a stand alone although I am now left wanting to read more! I really enjoyed this complicated mystery, the more clues that were discovered the more confused i became but it was really well executed. I loved the dialogue between our lawmen, I felt like part of the conversation. I also loved the language which of course reads the way it was spoken at the time.
Thank you so much to allison and busby for my #gifted copy and allowing me to be part of the blog tour.
August 21, 2021
How have not I heard of this series before?! So this book is already book 9. The story is captivating from the start luring the reader in with the enticing style of the writing which is evocative of older times and transporting us to 12th century Worcestershire.
The historical description of this period is illustrative and immersive enough that I could almost visualise what it would look like to live in this world. The two main investigators in the story, Bradecote and Catchpoll, are a great duo and the interaction between them is amusing to read.
The mystery itself wasn’t particularly hard to solve from a whodunnit perspective but it was interesting seeing how the mystery uncovered more of the reasons behind why the murder took place and finding out additional elements along the way.
I’m glad to have discovered this series and I always love travelling back to ancient times to places in England and experiencing this backdrop in a book. I also really enjoyed Hawkswood use of language and writing which really enhanced the tale.
Also doesn’t it have a gorgeously atmospheric cover?! It’s so pretty!
The historical description of this period is illustrative and immersive enough that I could almost visualise what it would look like to live in this world. The two main investigators in the story, Bradecote and Catchpoll, are a great duo and the interaction between them is amusing to read.
The mystery itself wasn’t particularly hard to solve from a whodunnit perspective but it was interesting seeing how the mystery uncovered more of the reasons behind why the murder took place and finding out additional elements along the way.
I’m glad to have discovered this series and I always love travelling back to ancient times to places in England and experiencing this backdrop in a book. I also really enjoyed Hawkswood use of language and writing which really enhanced the tale.
Also doesn’t it have a gorgeously atmospheric cover?! It’s so pretty!
August 25, 2021
For the purposes of our novel, justice has been delegated to the Undersheriff of Worcestershire, Hugh Bradecote, his gruff and worldly assistant Serjeant Catchpoll, and Catchpoll’s protege, Walkelin. Our trio are sent out to investigate the death of the local woodward, however, this presents no easy task as there is talk of wolves, or more specifically, werewolves. For our investigators, reality is cloaked in superstition, and to solve this crime, they must strip away the unreal and present the actual to a community living in terror of the unknown.
All of the above aspects are woven together in a highly engaging tale; with the characters holding their own across the narrative. The reader gets a real feel for the period and its peoples, as they struggle not only with their daily lives but in reconciling what their beliefs and the opposing reality presents.
A series worthy of investing in.
Read more here @ Melisende's Library
All of the above aspects are woven together in a highly engaging tale; with the characters holding their own across the narrative. The reader gets a real feel for the period and its peoples, as they struggle not only with their daily lives but in reconciling what their beliefs and the opposing reality presents.
A series worthy of investing in.
Read more here @ Melisende's Library
August 31, 2021
Another delightful and rollicking medieval murder mystery set in rural Worcestershire during the truculent and troublesome reign of King Stephan where my three favorite lawmen Bradcotte (undersheriff), Catchpoll (serjeant) and Walkelin (serjeant apprentice) are called upon to untangle some rather unsavory murderous shenanigans
involving deep seated hatred, grudges, jealousies and some malevolent acts that may or may not involve some terrifying wolves. Cleverly plotted and blessed with a cast of unforgettable characters this new addition to this incredible series should definitely be enjoyed during a full moon.....
Ms Hawkswood is a very talented wordsmith and she knows how to keep you on tenterhooks from start to finish.
An very entertaining medieval murder mystery that deserves to be enjoyed without any moderation whatsoever even if you will probably end up feeling like going outside by the end and start serenading the moon...🐺👍👍
Many thanks to Netgalley and Allison&Busby for this terrific ARC
involving deep seated hatred, grudges, jealousies and some malevolent acts that may or may not involve some terrifying wolves. Cleverly plotted and blessed with a cast of unforgettable characters this new addition to this incredible series should definitely be enjoyed during a full moon.....
Ms Hawkswood is a very talented wordsmith and she knows how to keep you on tenterhooks from start to finish.
An very entertaining medieval murder mystery that deserves to be enjoyed without any moderation whatsoever even if you will probably end up feeling like going outside by the end and start serenading the moon...🐺👍👍
Many thanks to Netgalley and Allison&Busby for this terrific ARC
August 22, 2021
This is a welcome return to the 12th century and the world of Under-sheriff Lord Bradecote and Sergeant Catchpoll along with Catchpoll's new apprentice , Walkelin.
The mauled body of the Keeper of the King's Forest of Feckenham has been discovered - who or what has committed this brutal killing of a man despised by many ?
Whilst fear and speculation are rife it is down to our trio to solve the case - surely a wolf would not enter a house never mind a village .
The case takes Bradecote and Catchpoll along with Walkelin from one end of the Forest to the other in their search - unearthing a long held plot of retribution and revenge .
The Author brings to light the politics and the social and legal aspects of society in these tumultuous times .
This an entertaining book full of twists and turns that takes us to and ending that reflects the cruelty of the times
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
The mauled body of the Keeper of the King's Forest of Feckenham has been discovered - who or what has committed this brutal killing of a man despised by many ?
Whilst fear and speculation are rife it is down to our trio to solve the case - surely a wolf would not enter a house never mind a village .
The case takes Bradecote and Catchpoll along with Walkelin from one end of the Forest to the other in their search - unearthing a long held plot of retribution and revenge .
The Author brings to light the politics and the social and legal aspects of society in these tumultuous times .
This an entertaining book full of twists and turns that takes us to and ending that reflects the cruelty of the times
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
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