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Orkneyinga Murders #4
The Bear at Midnight
Death strikes the hall at Buckquoy, and when Thorfinn has to appoint a new leader there, bitter rivalries emerge. Then a woman dies, and matters turn serious. When accusations hit close to home, Ketil and his old friend Sigrid must find out who the killer is, if only to defend themselves in the teeth of even more devastating news.
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 31, 2021
About the author
Lexie Conyngham
55 books127 followersAuthor of five historical crime fiction series: Murray of Letho, Hippolyta Napier, the Journals of Dr Robert Wilson, Inspector Alec Cattanach, and Orkneyinga Murders, Lexie lives in North-East Scotland and after some years of trying the traditional methods (with absolute and complete lack of success) she was persuaded to test her limited technical skills with e-books. When she isn't writing (that would be Sundays) she teaches, knits, gardens, drinks wine or whisky, and sits looking thoughtful while random facts wander around her head.
She can be followed, should such a thing appeal, on Pinterest (https://uk.pinterest.com/lexieconyngham/) or even Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Lexie-Conyng...).
She can be followed, should such a thing appeal, on Pinterest (https://uk.pinterest.com/lexieconyngham/) or even Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Lexie-Conyng...).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 8, 2022
The Bear at Midnight is the fourth book in the series of Orkneyinga Murders. As I have enjoyed this series, there was not a shadow of a doubt that I would like this book as well. This is a historical history crime book that kept my interest from the first page to the last page. Lexie Conyngham does an amazing job with her attention to detail. I recommend reading this book when you have enough time to finish it. This story was written in the Viking era with some familiar characters. This book has a lot of action and adventures with the Vikings, all for your reading pleasure. I highly recommend this book and the whole series.
January 21, 2022
While I am not one for historical mysteries, I was in the mood for something different.
When the Viking leader dies, it becomes the responsibility of the Earl of Orkney to choose a replacement and also solve the mystery of who killed the previous leader.
What made this such an engaging read is that I could not figure out who the killer one, since most of the characters had a motive and it could be any one of them. The surprise was who did it.
I have not read the previous novel but I plan to know more about the characters and their backstories.
I do not know what to give anything away, but I would definitely recommend it. I hope there is another book so I have more to look forward to reading.
When the Viking leader dies, it becomes the responsibility of the Earl of Orkney to choose a replacement and also solve the mystery of who killed the previous leader.
What made this such an engaging read is that I could not figure out who the killer one, since most of the characters had a motive and it could be any one of them. The surprise was who did it.
I have not read the previous novel but I plan to know more about the characters and their backstories.
I do not know what to give anything away, but I would definitely recommend it. I hope there is another book so I have more to look forward to reading.
February 16, 2022
More Viking era murder mystery and more tension. Really enjoying the series now that I’m into it.
4.5 rating, rounded up.
Book 4 in the series. Though the series does seem to go in a chronological order I was able to jump from book 1 to book 4 with little difficulty. There were some questions about what May have occurred in between but they were mostly addressed, or could be ignored without distracting from the overall story.
Here there is a death in the first part but that’s not the murder mystery aspect, that come later in the book. The first part is sort of a catch up of all the characters from books past as well as an introduction to new ones on the scene.
I enjoyed this book off the bat more than I did book 1. Maybe it was the familiarity with the characters and setting. I’m not quite sure what exactly held my interest more here but it kept me reading the book through rather than in fits and starts.
I enjoyed the tension between the characters, both new and old, as well as within the village. There’s a need for everyone to secure their place in uncertain times that feels more realistic. Then of course the true murder of the story happens and throws everyone and everything into upheaval.
I enjoyed the continual tension between the characters and the mystery of who in their community did it.
Cw: murder, death, time period sword fighting, domestic violence and violence against women, cheating, parental death.
4.5 rating, rounded up.
Book 4 in the series. Though the series does seem to go in a chronological order I was able to jump from book 1 to book 4 with little difficulty. There were some questions about what May have occurred in between but they were mostly addressed, or could be ignored without distracting from the overall story.
Here there is a death in the first part but that’s not the murder mystery aspect, that come later in the book. The first part is sort of a catch up of all the characters from books past as well as an introduction to new ones on the scene.
I enjoyed this book off the bat more than I did book 1. Maybe it was the familiarity with the characters and setting. I’m not quite sure what exactly held my interest more here but it kept me reading the book through rather than in fits and starts.
I enjoyed the tension between the characters, both new and old, as well as within the village. There’s a need for everyone to secure their place in uncertain times that feels more realistic. Then of course the true murder of the story happens and throws everyone and everything into upheaval.
I enjoyed the continual tension between the characters and the mystery of who in their community did it.
Cw: murder, death, time period sword fighting, domestic violence and violence against women, cheating, parental death.
January 24, 2022
4 Stars
The Bear at Midnight is the fourth intriguing instalment in the Orkneyinga Murders series by Lexie Conyngham. As with the previous books, this is an intriguing historical crime and investigation story- a bit of a whodunit murder mystery that kept me guessing the whole way through.
Again, this story is set in Scotland in the age of the Vikings- with characters we have met previously. And as I have come to expect, this talented author pulled me into the story and transported me through time with her vivid descriptions and detailed storytelling.
This book could be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the previous books, as they are definitely worth the read, too.
Looking forward to more.
Thank you, Lexie Conyngham!
The Bear at Midnight is the fourth intriguing instalment in the Orkneyinga Murders series by Lexie Conyngham. As with the previous books, this is an intriguing historical crime and investigation story- a bit of a whodunit murder mystery that kept me guessing the whole way through.
Again, this story is set in Scotland in the age of the Vikings- with characters we have met previously. And as I have come to expect, this talented author pulled me into the story and transported me through time with her vivid descriptions and detailed storytelling.
This book could be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the previous books, as they are definitely worth the read, too.
Looking forward to more.
Thank you, Lexie Conyngham!
December 20, 2022
So sorry to see this story end! Was sad to have such an inconclusive ending. (Argh!)
February 8, 2022
The book begins after the death of the leader of the hall of Buckquoy. Naturally, there has to be a replacement but there isn't an heir to take over. The earl has to choose between a nephew, an illegitimate son, and a local boy to take over the hall. As the selection process begins, the widow's daughter is seemingly enamored by first two options. However, doubts arise about who she really favors, as her mother is known to be a schemer. When the daughter is found murdered and no one claims the death, everything comes to a halt as insinuations abound as to who did it. It falls on the shoulders of Ketil and Sigrid to find out the truth of who killed the daughter before the wrong person takes over the hall. Can they find the murderer before they kill again? Who has the most to gain from her death? Or was it a crime of passion?
I enjoyed this story! It is a very well written historical mystery. I feel like the author did a wonderful job of getting inside Ketil and Sigrid's minds as they tried to puzzle out the murder to find the murderer. All of the characters were well developed and personable. There was just enough information given about each to keep you guessing as to who exactly the murderer was until the very end. It wasn't an obvious choice right off the bat, and I appreciated that!
All in all, a very good read! It is in a series, but you can pick this up without reading the first part of the series.
I enjoyed this story! It is a very well written historical mystery. I feel like the author did a wonderful job of getting inside Ketil and Sigrid's minds as they tried to puzzle out the murder to find the murderer. All of the characters were well developed and personable. There was just enough information given about each to keep you guessing as to who exactly the murderer was until the very end. It wasn't an obvious choice right off the bat, and I appreciated that!
All in all, a very good read! It is in a series, but you can pick this up without reading the first part of the series.
February 17, 2022
It is another season on Buckquoy where the death of prominent member of the island society occurs and although it was expected, it still jars those who were closest to them. As it is such an occasion, the family members gather from the far reaches of the islands and further to pay their respects to the dead.
As people gather, a decision has to be made and Thorfinn is again in charge of the decision which is who will inherit their place as the leader in the hierarchy. As relatives pursue their own agendas, those left with the fallout are the ones who have to aid Thorfinn in the process and so he calls upon his most faithful to observe the contenders and report back on their findings.
As this is ongoing, tragedy strikes and there is another death, although this one is much more mysterious as accusations and fists fly in the aftermath. With this new development, Ketil is called upon to help solve the mystery, especially when it is his old friend Sigrid who is in the firing line, but will they be able to work out who the culprit is before they take the fall, or will tragedy follow on their heels?
This is another mysterious historical crime where people are plotting behind the backs of others, while protecting their own, on a small island community filled with contentious individuals.
As people gather, a decision has to be made and Thorfinn is again in charge of the decision which is who will inherit their place as the leader in the hierarchy. As relatives pursue their own agendas, those left with the fallout are the ones who have to aid Thorfinn in the process and so he calls upon his most faithful to observe the contenders and report back on their findings.
As this is ongoing, tragedy strikes and there is another death, although this one is much more mysterious as accusations and fists fly in the aftermath. With this new development, Ketil is called upon to help solve the mystery, especially when it is his old friend Sigrid who is in the firing line, but will they be able to work out who the culprit is before they take the fall, or will tragedy follow on their heels?
This is another mysterious historical crime where people are plotting behind the backs of others, while protecting their own, on a small island community filled with contentious individuals.
February 2, 2022
The Bear at Midnight is the fourth book in the Orkneyinga Murders series. Set in Viking Scotland, this mystery centres around the appointment of a new leader. With lots at stake, everyone is using their physical strength, political power, good looks or whatever they’ve got going for them to try and secure their preferred outcome.
This is a gripping story. I could barely put it down, and only got distracted finding out if I could learn tablet weaving (not having a hole punch handy prevented me going TOO far down that rabbit hole…). I love the level of historical detail - it really brought the story to life! I have friends and family who do nålbinding so it was great to see it getting a mention!
Sigrid and Ketil make a good team, able between them to talk to most people and find out their version of events. There’s a lot to unravel, with secrets and strong feelings being harboured by many. There are plenty of other great characters too, including a troublemaking pig!
I haven’t read the earlier books in the series, and found The Bear at Midnight easy enough to follow so I would say it could work as a standalone. I am now desperate to read the other books when I get a chance, though, so why not start with book one?
This book gets five stars from me! I would recommend it to fans of historical mysteries and any Viking enthusiasts.
This is a gripping story. I could barely put it down, and only got distracted finding out if I could learn tablet weaving (not having a hole punch handy prevented me going TOO far down that rabbit hole…). I love the level of historical detail - it really brought the story to life! I have friends and family who do nålbinding so it was great to see it getting a mention!
Sigrid and Ketil make a good team, able between them to talk to most people and find out their version of events. There’s a lot to unravel, with secrets and strong feelings being harboured by many. There are plenty of other great characters too, including a troublemaking pig!
I haven’t read the earlier books in the series, and found The Bear at Midnight easy enough to follow so I would say it could work as a standalone. I am now desperate to read the other books when I get a chance, though, so why not start with book one?
This book gets five stars from me! I would recommend it to fans of historical mysteries and any Viking enthusiasts.
January 17, 2022
I do this every time I read any of Lexie Conyngham's books; devour them greedily and then feel lost once they are over. I tell myself that I won't and then I just can't seem to help it!
The Bear at Midnight is our fourth visit to the Orkney islands during the Viking era. Ketil and Sigrid once again find themselves in the midst of a murder mystery and must try and find out who is behind it all.
Although this is a murder mystery, like many of the other books, the actual murder doesn't take place until a good way into the book. I was so caught up in Ketil and Sigrid's world though, which is one of the joys of these books. The books are told from both Ketil and Sigrid's point of view and although neither one really takes the lead, it's Sigrid who is really the star of the books, there's just something about her and the way that things unfold around her.
I have to admit that I was a bit slow this time. I'd just about figured it all out by the time we found out who was behind everything, but it took me a while to get there and I hadn't got everything. A fantastic read, I just hope we don't have to wait too long to return.
The Bear at Midnight is our fourth visit to the Orkney islands during the Viking era. Ketil and Sigrid once again find themselves in the midst of a murder mystery and must try and find out who is behind it all.
Although this is a murder mystery, like many of the other books, the actual murder doesn't take place until a good way into the book. I was so caught up in Ketil and Sigrid's world though, which is one of the joys of these books. The books are told from both Ketil and Sigrid's point of view and although neither one really takes the lead, it's Sigrid who is really the star of the books, there's just something about her and the way that things unfold around her.
I have to admit that I was a bit slow this time. I'd just about figured it all out by the time we found out who was behind everything, but it took me a while to get there and I hadn't got everything. A fantastic read, I just hope we don't have to wait too long to return.
February 15, 2022
The Bear at Midnight is Book 4 in the Orkneyinga Murders series. Ketil and Sigrid work together once again to solve a mystery and find a killer in Orkney. When Einar passes away there are many in line to take over as leader. Ketil and Sigrid only want the best for everyone and to have peace in the land.
Sigrid and Ketil work beautifully together and really seemed destined to be a couple although neither one of them seems to realize that. The story is told from both sides and although neither seems to lead the story you can't help but bond with Sigrid. She possesses many admirable qualities including her strength and determination.
The author weaves together a beautiful story of the lives and characters of the Vikings and beautiful Scotland. Often you feel like you were right there with the characters because the author so vividly describes the scenes of day-to-day life with the characters.
Sigrid and Ketil work beautifully together and really seemed destined to be a couple although neither one of them seems to realize that. The story is told from both sides and although neither seems to lead the story you can't help but bond with Sigrid. She possesses many admirable qualities including her strength and determination.
The author weaves together a beautiful story of the lives and characters of the Vikings and beautiful Scotland. Often you feel like you were right there with the characters because the author so vividly describes the scenes of day-to-day life with the characters.
January 3, 2022
I love this series, of which this is the fourth. I’m fascinated by Viking history and culture, and I’ve visited the Orkneys. Add in some murders and this series really floats my longship!
Old Einar has died, and there are various contenders to take over the hall, though their overlord, Thorfinn, has the final say. Then there’s a murder. Ketil and Sigrid again find themselves working together to solve the crime. The setting isn’t the only thing that appeals to me in this book. The characters feel so real, though separated from us by so many years. I know people like this. Those I want to hug, and those I want to shake! There’s a satisfying resolution, but we still don’t know who’ll take over the hall – and Ketil and Sigrid still don’t know they’re made for each other. I await the next episode with eagerness.
Old Einar has died, and there are various contenders to take over the hall, though their overlord, Thorfinn, has the final say. Then there’s a murder. Ketil and Sigrid again find themselves working together to solve the crime. The setting isn’t the only thing that appeals to me in this book. The characters feel so real, though separated from us by so many years. I know people like this. Those I want to hug, and those I want to shake! There’s a satisfying resolution, but we still don’t know who’ll take over the hall – and Ketil and Sigrid still don’t know they’re made for each other. I await the next episode with eagerness.
January 19, 2022
This book was gripping in more than one way truly, I could not get enough of how the story as well as the characters progressed, The story brought on suspense, and a mystery woven within words of the book that came together, I loved it from start to fish. Amazing read!
For me it was the plot that sucked me in so deep! I loved the bond between Ketil and Sigrid right from the start. They had each other's back and only wanted peace to come to the land. They risked a lot for answers, but as we all know sometimes the answers we seek aren't want we want to realize. I found their bond was a great appeal to the story, everything else added in nicely too. Great build up!
Something else aside from the character and plot I really loved, was the descriptive use of the senses the author added into the story for the reader. I loved how the weather or clothes was deeply said into detail. it made realization really good, and I found I was right there in the town, trying to protect those close to me. Love that sensory appeal. Amazing author to craft such a wonderful engaging book!
This book was a wonderful read from the start to the end for sure. I could not get enough of this book, and I do highly recommend this author and this book. I will be reading other work by them for sure. I highly suggest not passing this one up, its a rare treat meant to be enjoyed!
For me it was the plot that sucked me in so deep! I loved the bond between Ketil and Sigrid right from the start. They had each other's back and only wanted peace to come to the land. They risked a lot for answers, but as we all know sometimes the answers we seek aren't want we want to realize. I found their bond was a great appeal to the story, everything else added in nicely too. Great build up!
Something else aside from the character and plot I really loved, was the descriptive use of the senses the author added into the story for the reader. I loved how the weather or clothes was deeply said into detail. it made realization really good, and I found I was right there in the town, trying to protect those close to me. Love that sensory appeal. Amazing author to craft such a wonderful engaging book!
This book was a wonderful read from the start to the end for sure. I could not get enough of this book, and I do highly recommend this author and this book. I will be reading other work by them for sure. I highly suggest not passing this one up, its a rare treat meant to be enjoyed!
February 16, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical crime novel and quickly got into the story despite not having read the previous books in the series. The storyline is set on the Orkney Islands during the Viking era and the author does a great job at bringing this period to life and making the reader feel immersed in the setting. Thorfinn has to appoint a new leader at Buckquoy but bitter rivalries emerge and a woman dies. Ketil and Sigrid must then work together to discover who the killer is, and defend themselves. Luckily this is not the first time they have found themselves in the middle of a murder mystery. I liked the main characters and found them likeable and relatable and could definitely tell they had chemistry between them, even if they didn’t. The book is written from both of their points of view which helped make me feel engaged with them and the story. The storyline flowed well and the plot had me hooked till the last page. I am keen to read the previous books in the series now.
February 16, 2022
Jump right into political intrigue and well done historical mystery crime solving.
The leader of the hall of Buckquoy dies. There needs to be a replacement but there is no male heir. There is an illegitimate son, a nephew and a local all who could assume the role and an Earl has to decide.
The leaders wife, now a widow has a daughter who seems to have her favorite to take over, but when the daughter turns up murdered so many questions ensue. Who killed her, and why? is it to influence the selection of the leader? is the mother involved, is it completely unrelated?
this story is a great historical crime novel which will both let you learn of culture, political intrigue and hierarchy but also have you lost in this story desperate to find out what actually happened.
You won't regret this read!
The leader of the hall of Buckquoy dies. There needs to be a replacement but there is no male heir. There is an illegitimate son, a nephew and a local all who could assume the role and an Earl has to decide.
The leaders wife, now a widow has a daughter who seems to have her favorite to take over, but when the daughter turns up murdered so many questions ensue. Who killed her, and why? is it to influence the selection of the leader? is the mother involved, is it completely unrelated?
this story is a great historical crime novel which will both let you learn of culture, political intrigue and hierarchy but also have you lost in this story desperate to find out what actually happened.
You won't regret this read!
January 24, 2022
The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham. This is the 4th book in the series and I recommend reading them in order to get the best experience. This is a historical mystery that will keep you guessing all the way through. When the local handyman is murdered his family is only worried about who gets the business and his possessions. Sigrid and Ketil are working as hard as they can to find out who the murderer is before more bodies begin to pile up. This author's writing is so beautiful and moving I feel as if I am in the book in Scotland with the Vikings. Sigrid and Ketil must work around the clock because more murders are happening and they don't want any more murders on their watch. In the midst of all of the murders, feelings are flowing around between Sigrid and Ketil, it's obvious they are a match made in Heaven but they haven't figured it out yet. This book could be read as a standalone but is much better reading them all.
January 25, 2022
While this is the fourth installment in this series it is just as incredible as the previous three. This investigative, intriguing, historical crime series has grabbed my attention from the beginning and I simply can't put them down. This author really knows how to pull her readers in and keep them guessing until the very end. While this book could be read as a stand alone they are all so incredible that I recommend reading all of them so you can get the most from her wonderful characters and beautifully woven plots. Her characters are perfect, her plot Is woven almost like an intricate spider web and she'll leave you with your head spinning trying to figure out this complex murder mystery. So if your looking for a great book to pick up this weekend, then pick this one up today.
January 30, 2022
This story takes place in Scotland within a Viking village. There is murder, betrayal, and a bit of romance. Ketil and Sigrid are the main characters. and the ones attempting to solve the murders that strategically seem to keep taking place. Many suspects and few answers have the pair scrambling to solve the case before more bodies turn up. Will they solve it in time, or will the greed of others take down everyone.
Historical Fiction is making its way onto my reading list a lot more lately. Soo many good stories are appearing, and this is one of them. I was unsure when I started this book but the further I read the better it got. Each scene was vividly described, and the bits of history thrown in were fascinating.
Historical Fiction is making its way onto my reading list a lot more lately. Soo many good stories are appearing, and this is one of them. I was unsure when I started this book but the further I read the better it got. Each scene was vividly described, and the bits of history thrown in were fascinating.
February 5, 2022
5 Stars
The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham
The Bear at Midnight is the fourth book in the Orkneyinga Murders Series and once you start reading there’s no stopping until you’ve finished. I read this in one afternoon , I couldn’t put it down I had to know what was going to happen next. I highly recommend reading this series in order each book is just as good as the first. I was very intrigued by this Historical Murder Mystery that is set in Scotland and this author did a wonderful job and the attention to detail and her characters all came together in a wonderfully written story. The twists and turns definitely had me on the edge of my seat at times. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I look forward to reading more from this Author.
The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham
The Bear at Midnight is the fourth book in the Orkneyinga Murders Series and once you start reading there’s no stopping until you’ve finished. I read this in one afternoon , I couldn’t put it down I had to know what was going to happen next. I highly recommend reading this series in order each book is just as good as the first. I was very intrigued by this Historical Murder Mystery that is set in Scotland and this author did a wonderful job and the attention to detail and her characters all came together in a wonderfully written story. The twists and turns definitely had me on the edge of my seat at times. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I look forward to reading more from this Author.
February 8, 2022
As a huge fan of historical fiction, I picked up the fourth book in the Orkneyinga Murders series for this author. This is my first book in the series I have read and will be seeking out the first three. The author got me hooked with the interaction of history, the characters and twists and turns in this murder mystery. I was thankful I had good periods of time to sit still to read this book, as I did not want to put it down. Another reason for picking up this book was the Viking in Scotland setting and the author did not disappoint with her great ability to describe the surroundings and really involve you into the story. I look forward to checking up on book one, two and three.
February 11, 2022
This is the fourth installment in the Orkneyinga Murders series and I personally would reccomend thand you read the series in its entirety for the full enjoyment. I can see where you would be good if you really just wanted to dive in though as this author is really skilled in her ability to pay attention to details and just flows so beautifully with her words. I loved the way the viking world came to life off my kindle screen. This book once again kept me guessing all the way until the end with plenty of intrigue that I just couldn't’ put it down until I found out who had done it. I look forward to seeing where the rest of the series will go.
February 17, 2022
Two deaths, one of old age, one of death, brings Ketil and Sigrid back together to solve who the killer is. Has long lost relatives compete to take over their deceased relatives home and power, things go awry and nobody is without suspicion. Although this is the fourth book in the series, it can easily be read as a stand alone. I've read the first and this book and didn't feel like I was lost. The original characters continue to grow while meeting new ones in the series. It still amazes me how even after a few short paragraphs,I find myself disliking or loving a character. Just as you think you know the killer, bam, what a great ending.
January 24, 2022
The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham
3 out of 5 Stars
When the village’s headman dies, his family gathers to express their loss and decide who takes over the family businesses. Jealousy, greed, and lust collide in this tale of betrayal and murder. Can Sigrid and Ketil figure out who is behind the murders at the funeral before more bodies are found?
This quick moving tale of mystery will keep you on your toes trying to figure out who is behind the deaths and why. The author weaves this story as astutely as Sigrid weaves her braids.
3 out of 5 Stars
When the village’s headman dies, his family gathers to express their loss and decide who takes over the family businesses. Jealousy, greed, and lust collide in this tale of betrayal and murder. Can Sigrid and Ketil figure out who is behind the murders at the funeral before more bodies are found?
This quick moving tale of mystery will keep you on your toes trying to figure out who is behind the deaths and why. The author weaves this story as astutely as Sigrid weaves her braids.
January 27, 2022
This is a very well written historical mystery. The Bear at Midnight is the 4th book in the Orkneyinga Murders Series, and it continues to set the bar high as the previous 3 books did. I am a huge advocate of reading books in book order, that is almost a necessity for this series. While you can read them out of order, you will not get the full effect of the story. This book follows the Earl of Orkney and his hunt to find a killer.
I am not typically a fan of historical mysteries, but this one was well written, had great characters and the suspense throughout the book, kept me tied to the pages. 4 out of 5 stars.
I am not typically a fan of historical mysteries, but this one was well written, had great characters and the suspense throughout the book, kept me tied to the pages. 4 out of 5 stars.
January 28, 2022
Another wonderful instalment to this series. I loved the storyline and the author definitely kept me hooked form beginning to end. I was completely engaged with the mystery I the story and really did feel like I was right there with the characters at times. The authors imagination really shines through in this book and her attention to detail make it a very exciting book to read. The characters Ketil and Sigrid are great characters to read about and I am excited for more from them in the future!
This was a great read and one that I would highly recommend.
This was a great read and one that I would highly recommend.
February 2, 2022
This was the first book by Lexie Conyngham I have had the privilege of reviewing and after reading "The Bear at Midnight" it won't be the last. This is the fourth installment in the Orkneyinga Murders series and I read it as a stand-alone. Through the wonderful storytelling talents of Conyngham, we are transported to Orkney, Scotland. At times, it seems like the Highlands are just outside the window! In this piece of historical fiction immersed in Viking culture., there are heated conversations, interesting politics, and of course, a murder mystery to solve. This is a murder mystery like none other!
February 11, 2022
This was a really good read! I enjoyed it, however since I haven't read the other previous books in this series, I don't think I enjoyed it as much as I really could have. It was very immersive and had a great storyline, I just wasn't familiar with all the characters and had a pretty difficult time with name pronunciation as well. The characters were interesting, and the plot was interesting and entertaining as well and well written. I did enjoy reading this book even though I felt like I was missing some information. I would not be opposed to going back and reading the previous books either.
February 11, 2022
This is the first book I have read from this author and I found this story to be very interesting. The story is mystery crime/murder and there are quite the characters of trying to figure out who killed a Viking Leader and some. The author did a great job with the twists, turns and details as the story took placed in Scotland.
I must admit, this book took a hold of me and now I am definitely going to circle back and start from the beginning of the series for sure. Very good historical murder mystery!!
I must admit, this book took a hold of me and now I am definitely going to circle back and start from the beginning of the series for sure. Very good historical murder mystery!!
February 13, 2022
I was not expecting to get so wrapped up in Sigrids world! I don't normally read historical murder mysteries but this one really grabbed my attention when it jumped into the story after the death of their leader. While everyone is gathered still awaiting the decision for the new leader another death occurs. As Ketil and Sigrid work to find out what happened tensions rise. As more information comes to light more questions are raised. I really enjoyed reading about Sigrid and Ketil and the way they work together. I will say this book can be read as a stand alone but I will be going back to read the others!
February 17, 2022
The Bear at Midnight is the fourth book in the Orkneinga Murder Books. I was so excited to read this book after reading book 1, Tomb of an Eagle. I was so excited to see Thorafinn, who I read about in book 1. Also like book 1, it is set in Scotland in the Viking era. This is not a time period that I would have thought I enjoyed reading about but just like book 1 the magnificent storytelling and details draw you in. Once again Lexie Conyngham keeps you guessing while enjoying this tale. I highly recommend this book and this series for an intriguing story that keeps you on your toes.
January 16, 2022
Lexie Conyngham has done it again. A weaver not only in the traditional sense but a weaver of time, history and plots on top of magnificent story telling. She tells about life in Orkney in the 11th century and the history. A great plot of a double murder and a few more dead people. You see yourself sitting in Earl Thorfinn's great hall, you smell the food, the singing of warriors, you feel the cold wind and find yourself in a dense fog.
Is it all her imagination or is she simply a time traveler - you decide.
Is it all her imagination or is she simply a time traveler - you decide.
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