What do you think?
Rate this book
A Bradecote and Catchpoll Investigation #10
A Taste for Killing
January, 1145. Godfrey Bowyer, the best but least likeable bow maker in Worcester, dies an agonising death by poisoning. Although similarly struck down after the same meal, his wife, Blanche, survives. The number of people who could have administered the poison should mean a very short investigation for the Sheriff's men, Hugh Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll and Underserjeant Walkelin, but perhaps someone was pulling the strings, and that widens the net considerably. Could it be the cast-out younger brother? Or perhaps Orderic the Bailiff, whose wife may have had to endure Godfrey's attentions? Could it even be Blanche herself?
With Bradecote eager to return to his manor worried about his wife's impending confinement, and Walkelin trying to get his mother to accept his choice of bride, there are distractions aplenty, though Serjeant Catchpoll will not let them get in the way of solving this case.
With Bradecote eager to return to his manor worried about his wife's impending confinement, and Walkelin trying to get his mother to accept his choice of bride, there are distractions aplenty, though Serjeant Catchpoll will not let them get in the way of solving this case.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2022
53 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Hawkswood
23 books114 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
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
June 4, 2022
My thanks to Allison & Busby and NetGalley for a review copy of this book.
A Taste for Killing is Book 10 in the Bradecote and Catchpoll series of medieval mysteries by Sarah Hawkswood, and the second book that I read in this series, having come across it and enjoyed book 9 very much last year. In fact, I’d liked it so much that I requested this book as soon as I saw it on NetGalley. The series follows Serjeant Catchpoll and his superior and friend Undersheriff Hugh Bradecote as they solve murders in Worcestershire, serving under the Sheriff William de Beauchamp. They are assisted by Underserjeant Walkelin, a young man who has recently joined them (as Catchpoll’s apprentice). While the stories of the main characters progress as the series goes on, each book can be read as a standalone. The developments in the characters’ lives are easy to catch on to, though of course reading in order makes it more fun.
A Taste for Killing opens in January 1145, three days before the feast of St Agnes. Godfrey Bowyer lives with his wife Blanche, and journeyman Alwin, cook Gode, and maid Runild. Goldfrey and Blanche have just been served their meal, bread and pottage, and the journeyman and two servants are in the kitchen hearing the sounds of the master and mistress quarrel and throw dishes and pitchers at each other—not an unusual occurrence. The row subsides, and Blanche retires to her room while poor Runild cleans the mess. But suddenly they hear different sounds, Godfrey in pain, doubled over, while Blanche comes down the stairs vomiting. Godfrey is dead, poisoned but Blanche, attended by Roger the Healer survives. Godfrey may have been the best bowmaker in town but he was not much liked. He had a roving eye, and his relationships with those around him were strained whether it was with his wife, his younger brother, or the town bailiff. An unwilling Bradecote, awaiting the birth of his child and not wanting to leave his wife’s side, must join Serjeant Catchpoll and look into the matter. At first, it seems the three in the kitchen were the only people who could possibly have committed the crime, but as they start following different lines of inquiry, things no longer seem as simple. Alongside we follow developments in Bradecote’s life as he fears losing his wife to childbirth a second time, while young Walkelin who is proving himself a worthy Underserjeant, struggles to gather the courage to tell his mother about the girl he loves and wishes to marry.
This book had all the elements I loved in this series the first time I read it last year—a good mystery, excellent historical detail, and likeable characters—and made for as good a read.
I love the sense of place and time Hawkswood has created in these books. Its setting, like the Brother Cadfael books, is during the civil war/Anarchy between King Stephen and Empress Maud, though the unrest doesn’t much affect our stories. While no larger historical events are referenced (though Empress Maud is mentioned a couple of times), in the book one can get a good feel of the social scenario and hierarchy, power relations, everyday life and mannerisms (from meals to forms of address to social interactions), and of course, how shrieval authorities would have gone about conducting an investigation into a suspicious death at a time when resources and knowledge were very different to the present day.
I enjoyed catching up with Bradecote, Catchpoll, and Walkelin. All three belong to different social stations, but Bradecote and Catchpoll have developed a comfortable and friendly relationship, where Catchpoll, the elder of the two taking the lead, or making an observation out of turn is taken graciously by the other, and both respect each other, recognise each other’s talents, as well as take full advantage of the social position of each (for instance, Walkelin’s access to the kitchens or to local gossip through his mother, or Bradecote’s influence and even the fear his position might induce when needed). Walkelin must tread more carefully, being newer to the team, but he is proving himself worthy with every case, and his relationship with the other two is reaching that same easy state. With the Sheriff himself of course, all must toe the line and all formalities observed.
The mystery was an interesting one, though in this book (perhaps the effect of reading too many detective stories), I did guess whodunit very early on. This did not affect my enjoyment of the book though, as I found myself engaged by the writing (this book didn’t feel as slow moving as the previous one) and reading on to find out whether I was right or whether there was still a surprise twist in store. My guess was right, but it was interesting to watch the case unfold, and elements of the explanation emerge which one could work out only as the book went on.
A satisfying instalment in a series that I’m certainly going to be reading more of.
4.25 stars
A Taste for Killing is Book 10 in the Bradecote and Catchpoll series of medieval mysteries by Sarah Hawkswood, and the second book that I read in this series, having come across it and enjoyed book 9 very much last year. In fact, I’d liked it so much that I requested this book as soon as I saw it on NetGalley. The series follows Serjeant Catchpoll and his superior and friend Undersheriff Hugh Bradecote as they solve murders in Worcestershire, serving under the Sheriff William de Beauchamp. They are assisted by Underserjeant Walkelin, a young man who has recently joined them (as Catchpoll’s apprentice). While the stories of the main characters progress as the series goes on, each book can be read as a standalone. The developments in the characters’ lives are easy to catch on to, though of course reading in order makes it more fun.
A Taste for Killing opens in January 1145, three days before the feast of St Agnes. Godfrey Bowyer lives with his wife Blanche, and journeyman Alwin, cook Gode, and maid Runild. Goldfrey and Blanche have just been served their meal, bread and pottage, and the journeyman and two servants are in the kitchen hearing the sounds of the master and mistress quarrel and throw dishes and pitchers at each other—not an unusual occurrence. The row subsides, and Blanche retires to her room while poor Runild cleans the mess. But suddenly they hear different sounds, Godfrey in pain, doubled over, while Blanche comes down the stairs vomiting. Godfrey is dead, poisoned but Blanche, attended by Roger the Healer survives. Godfrey may have been the best bowmaker in town but he was not much liked. He had a roving eye, and his relationships with those around him were strained whether it was with his wife, his younger brother, or the town bailiff. An unwilling Bradecote, awaiting the birth of his child and not wanting to leave his wife’s side, must join Serjeant Catchpoll and look into the matter. At first, it seems the three in the kitchen were the only people who could possibly have committed the crime, but as they start following different lines of inquiry, things no longer seem as simple. Alongside we follow developments in Bradecote’s life as he fears losing his wife to childbirth a second time, while young Walkelin who is proving himself a worthy Underserjeant, struggles to gather the courage to tell his mother about the girl he loves and wishes to marry.
This book had all the elements I loved in this series the first time I read it last year—a good mystery, excellent historical detail, and likeable characters—and made for as good a read.
I love the sense of place and time Hawkswood has created in these books. Its setting, like the Brother Cadfael books, is during the civil war/Anarchy between King Stephen and Empress Maud, though the unrest doesn’t much affect our stories. While no larger historical events are referenced (though Empress Maud is mentioned a couple of times), in the book one can get a good feel of the social scenario and hierarchy, power relations, everyday life and mannerisms (from meals to forms of address to social interactions), and of course, how shrieval authorities would have gone about conducting an investigation into a suspicious death at a time when resources and knowledge were very different to the present day.
I enjoyed catching up with Bradecote, Catchpoll, and Walkelin. All three belong to different social stations, but Bradecote and Catchpoll have developed a comfortable and friendly relationship, where Catchpoll, the elder of the two taking the lead, or making an observation out of turn is taken graciously by the other, and both respect each other, recognise each other’s talents, as well as take full advantage of the social position of each (for instance, Walkelin’s access to the kitchens or to local gossip through his mother, or Bradecote’s influence and even the fear his position might induce when needed). Walkelin must tread more carefully, being newer to the team, but he is proving himself worthy with every case, and his relationship with the other two is reaching that same easy state. With the Sheriff himself of course, all must toe the line and all formalities observed.
The mystery was an interesting one, though in this book (perhaps the effect of reading too many detective stories), I did guess whodunit very early on. This did not affect my enjoyment of the book though, as I found myself engaged by the writing (this book didn’t feel as slow moving as the previous one) and reading on to find out whether I was right or whether there was still a surprise twist in store. My guess was right, but it was interesting to watch the case unfold, and elements of the explanation emerge which one could work out only as the book went on.
A satisfying instalment in a series that I’m certainly going to be reading more of.
4.25 stars
May 16, 2022
A Taste for Killing is another engrossing instalment in Sarah Hawkswood's excellent historical mystery series featuring Under-Sheriff of Worcester Hugh Bradecote, Sergeant Catchpoll and Under-Sergeant Walkelin.
The previous two books in the series having been set in rural areas of Worcestershire, in A Taste for Killing we return to within the Worcester city walls. It's January 1145 and the midst of a cold winter, as Hugh Bradecote's pregnant wife, Christina, nears her due date at their manor. He's understandably nervous, after the death of his first wife in childbirth, and hoping that he will not be called away from Christina's side for any crime-related duties.
Godfrey Bowyer is much disliked by the other burgesses and citizens of Worcester, but is widely regarded as the town's best maker of bows. His household is thrown into turmoil when Bowyer collapses in agony and dies after eating his pottage one evening. Mistress Bowyer, the beautiful but manipulative Blanche, is also taken ill, but is saved by the timely ministrations of Roger the Healer. After attending the scene and conducting preliminary interviews with those present, Sergeant Catchpoll reports back to the Lord Sheriff, William de Beauchamp, who directs that Lord Bradecote be called to Worcester, whatever his wife's condition.
A reluctant Bradecote returns, and together with Sergeant Catchpoll and Under-Sergeant Walkelin, begins to investigate the death. From within the Bowyer household and from questioning various citizens of Worcester, they uncover tales of a stormy marriage, intra-familial antipathy, infidelity, ambitions and jealousies.
Sarah Hawkswood infuses her mystery narrative with plenty of historical detail and the use of medieval-style speech patterns, both of which add to the immersive feeling of the story. Her setting in 12th century Worcester is fascinating, as is the use of bynames, usually based on the person's work or some notable personal characteristic. I love discovering the origins of surnames that continue to exist among Franco-Anglo-Celtic people today.
The mystery storyline itself is complex, with plenty of twists and turns along the way as our investigative trio discover more details about the deceased, his reputation and the potential motives attributable to those closest to him. Despite the comparative lack of technology in medieval times, we see the early use of skills that have over intervening centuries become modern forensic science, in this case determination of cause of death and forensic toxicology.
The character arcs of the central three protagonists continue to develop, and they are supported by a well-imagined cast of returning and new characters. In A Taste for Killing, we see former apprentice, now Under-Sergeant, Walkelin's skills as an investigator continue to develop, as he faces a major step in his personal life.
I'd recommend A Taste for Killing to any reader who enjoys well-researched and realistic historical mysteries, complex plots and great characters. While this and other books in the series read well as standalones, my view is that the greatest enjoyment would be had by reading in series order, as this would give an enhanced understanding of character development.
My thanks to the author, Sarah Hawkswood, publisher Allison & Busby and NetGalley (UK) for the opportunity to read and review another book in this wonderful series. I can't wait for the next instalment!
The previous two books in the series having been set in rural areas of Worcestershire, in A Taste for Killing we return to within the Worcester city walls. It's January 1145 and the midst of a cold winter, as Hugh Bradecote's pregnant wife, Christina, nears her due date at their manor. He's understandably nervous, after the death of his first wife in childbirth, and hoping that he will not be called away from Christina's side for any crime-related duties.
Godfrey Bowyer is much disliked by the other burgesses and citizens of Worcester, but is widely regarded as the town's best maker of bows. His household is thrown into turmoil when Bowyer collapses in agony and dies after eating his pottage one evening. Mistress Bowyer, the beautiful but manipulative Blanche, is also taken ill, but is saved by the timely ministrations of Roger the Healer. After attending the scene and conducting preliminary interviews with those present, Sergeant Catchpoll reports back to the Lord Sheriff, William de Beauchamp, who directs that Lord Bradecote be called to Worcester, whatever his wife's condition.
A reluctant Bradecote returns, and together with Sergeant Catchpoll and Under-Sergeant Walkelin, begins to investigate the death. From within the Bowyer household and from questioning various citizens of Worcester, they uncover tales of a stormy marriage, intra-familial antipathy, infidelity, ambitions and jealousies.
Sarah Hawkswood infuses her mystery narrative with plenty of historical detail and the use of medieval-style speech patterns, both of which add to the immersive feeling of the story. Her setting in 12th century Worcester is fascinating, as is the use of bynames, usually based on the person's work or some notable personal characteristic. I love discovering the origins of surnames that continue to exist among Franco-Anglo-Celtic people today.
The mystery storyline itself is complex, with plenty of twists and turns along the way as our investigative trio discover more details about the deceased, his reputation and the potential motives attributable to those closest to him. Despite the comparative lack of technology in medieval times, we see the early use of skills that have over intervening centuries become modern forensic science, in this case determination of cause of death and forensic toxicology.
The character arcs of the central three protagonists continue to develop, and they are supported by a well-imagined cast of returning and new characters. In A Taste for Killing, we see former apprentice, now Under-Sergeant, Walkelin's skills as an investigator continue to develop, as he faces a major step in his personal life.
I'd recommend A Taste for Killing to any reader who enjoys well-researched and realistic historical mysteries, complex plots and great characters. While this and other books in the series read well as standalones, my view is that the greatest enjoyment would be had by reading in series order, as this would give an enhanced understanding of character development.
My thanks to the author, Sarah Hawkswood, publisher Allison & Busby and NetGalley (UK) for the opportunity to read and review another book in this wonderful series. I can't wait for the next instalment!
July 28, 2022
3.5 rounded up to 4.
January, 1145. Godfrey Bowyer, the best but least likeable bow maker in Worcester, dies an agonising death by poisoning. Although similarly struck down after the same meal, his wife, Blanche, survives. The number of people who could have administered the poison should mean a very short investigation for the Sheriff's men, Hugh Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll and Underserjeant Walkelin, but perhaps someone was pulling the strings, and that widens the net considerably. Could it be the cast-out younger brother? Or perhaps Orderic the Bailiff, whose wife may have had to endure Godfrey's attentions? Could it even be Blanche herself?
This was a difficult one to rate because there were elements of the story and writing that I really enjoyed and then there were aspects I didn’t. For me as a whole the plot was good, it had unexpected twists and turns, with intriguing characters and revelations that kept me hooked and guessing.
However, I do feel that the storyline suffered as Hawkswood tried to imitate a more historical style of writing which made some of the scenes feel convoluted and hard to follow.
Nevertheless, the banter between the detectives was enjoyable, and it was good to see certain characters get their comeuppance at the end; I wouldn’t say no to checking out some of Hawkswood’s other books in the future.
January, 1145. Godfrey Bowyer, the best but least likeable bow maker in Worcester, dies an agonising death by poisoning. Although similarly struck down after the same meal, his wife, Blanche, survives. The number of people who could have administered the poison should mean a very short investigation for the Sheriff's men, Hugh Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll and Underserjeant Walkelin, but perhaps someone was pulling the strings, and that widens the net considerably. Could it be the cast-out younger brother? Or perhaps Orderic the Bailiff, whose wife may have had to endure Godfrey's attentions? Could it even be Blanche herself?
This was a difficult one to rate because there were elements of the story and writing that I really enjoyed and then there were aspects I didn’t. For me as a whole the plot was good, it had unexpected twists and turns, with intriguing characters and revelations that kept me hooked and guessing.
However, I do feel that the storyline suffered as Hawkswood tried to imitate a more historical style of writing which made some of the scenes feel convoluted and hard to follow.
Nevertheless, the banter between the detectives was enjoyable, and it was good to see certain characters get their comeuppance at the end; I wouldn’t say no to checking out some of Hawkswood’s other books in the future.
May 12, 2022
Many thanks to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for this Advanced Reader Copy and the opportunity to review A Taste for Killing. All opinions and comments are my own.
The master and mistress of a house, after having a big argument at dinner (a common occurrence), have separated. Not for long, however. Soon both are writhing in pain. A healer is summoned. Alas, too late for the husband; the wife survives, just. Roger the Healer pronounces the dreaded word -- poison. Serjeant Catchpoll is summoned, and Walkelin, his young assistant, comes along.
Thus begins A Taste for Killing, the latest in the medieval historical mystery series by Sarah Hawkswood, this one set in 1145. Catchpoll doesn’t want to involve the lord Bradecote, who’s waiting at his estate for his lady wife to have a baby. But the lord Sheriff of Worcestershire knows the deceased was a man of status, and his murder warrants someone of high rank to investigate. So, begrudgingly, the other half of our team is summoned by Catchpoll and rides to town.
Sarah Hawkswood makes sure there are plenty of suspects. This may be medieval England, but reasons for hatred and murder haven’t changed much. (Ms. Hawkswood does have a way of reminding us that we’re in a medieval world, with language and concepts that are true to the time period.) The man was detested by his fellows, and he had a roving eye. Plus, everyone knows he and his wife argued constantly. However, she was also poisoned, so who would want to get rid of both of them? The servants are the most obvious suspects, but that’s too easy, of course. Isn’t it? There's even an unhappy brother. It’s a long list, and Bradecote and Catchpoll (and readers) have a lot of work to do, to sift through stories and evidence and find a diabolical murderer. And don’t think you’re done with one murder. Oh, no.
Our investigators are their usual dogged, questioning selves, and Walkelin has his contribution to make. That second murder brings its own questions. What appears to be a fitting conclusion to everything doesn’t seem that way to milord Bradecote. Our lord Undersheriff is not convinced, and readers will need to be, too. Sarah Hawkswood lays it all out very neatly.
“Truth will make itself known,” as Roger the Healer relates. Bradecote and Catchpoll have realized what has happened, and they are coming for the killer.
A note should be made of how our author is bringing young Walkelin to the fore, growing as part of the team. Certainly, Serjeant Catchpole still reminds him of his place, but there is much made of his progress. First-rate characterization is a hallmark of this series, which hopefully will continue to entertain us for many more books.
The master and mistress of a house, after having a big argument at dinner (a common occurrence), have separated. Not for long, however. Soon both are writhing in pain. A healer is summoned. Alas, too late for the husband; the wife survives, just. Roger the Healer pronounces the dreaded word -- poison. Serjeant Catchpoll is summoned, and Walkelin, his young assistant, comes along.
Thus begins A Taste for Killing, the latest in the medieval historical mystery series by Sarah Hawkswood, this one set in 1145. Catchpoll doesn’t want to involve the lord Bradecote, who’s waiting at his estate for his lady wife to have a baby. But the lord Sheriff of Worcestershire knows the deceased was a man of status, and his murder warrants someone of high rank to investigate. So, begrudgingly, the other half of our team is summoned by Catchpoll and rides to town.
Sarah Hawkswood makes sure there are plenty of suspects. This may be medieval England, but reasons for hatred and murder haven’t changed much. (Ms. Hawkswood does have a way of reminding us that we’re in a medieval world, with language and concepts that are true to the time period.) The man was detested by his fellows, and he had a roving eye. Plus, everyone knows he and his wife argued constantly. However, she was also poisoned, so who would want to get rid of both of them? The servants are the most obvious suspects, but that’s too easy, of course. Isn’t it? There's even an unhappy brother. It’s a long list, and Bradecote and Catchpoll (and readers) have a lot of work to do, to sift through stories and evidence and find a diabolical murderer. And don’t think you’re done with one murder. Oh, no.
Our investigators are their usual dogged, questioning selves, and Walkelin has his contribution to make. That second murder brings its own questions. What appears to be a fitting conclusion to everything doesn’t seem that way to milord Bradecote. Our lord Undersheriff is not convinced, and readers will need to be, too. Sarah Hawkswood lays it all out very neatly.
“Truth will make itself known,” as Roger the Healer relates. Bradecote and Catchpoll have realized what has happened, and they are coming for the killer.
A note should be made of how our author is bringing young Walkelin to the fore, growing as part of the team. Certainly, Serjeant Catchpole still reminds him of his place, but there is much made of his progress. First-rate characterization is a hallmark of this series, which hopefully will continue to entertain us for many more books.
May 10, 2022
Book number ten in this series ticks all the boxes for me once again. Author Sarah Hawkswood continues to give me mental stimulation and pleasure while I catch up with the three characters who investigate wrongdoing in Worster in 1145. I watched Bradecote and Catchpoll continue to guide Walkelin through how to investigate crime and deal with those citizens both above and below him in the class system operating in this historical period. The characters speak in the dialect of the time, but those words and phrases are so well written that I easily followed their meaning without any difficulty.
One of the things I enjoy so much about this series is that the author uses a wide range of methods for the crimes to occur in her series so I never know exactly what I will find. Even though the criminal is revealed before the end of this story, there is still time taken to explain the how and why. The three law enforcers are building an interesting dynamic, giving their investigative strengths a fine range to ensure the mystery is studied from all angles so each person contributes necessary evidence to reveal the whole picture. Reading this novel was a pleasurable experience and I look forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for an e-galley of this novel.
One of the things I enjoy so much about this series is that the author uses a wide range of methods for the crimes to occur in her series so I never know exactly what I will find. Even though the criminal is revealed before the end of this story, there is still time taken to explain the how and why. The three law enforcers are building an interesting dynamic, giving their investigative strengths a fine range to ensure the mystery is studied from all angles so each person contributes necessary evidence to reveal the whole picture. Reading this novel was a pleasurable experience and I look forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for an e-galley of this novel.
May 6, 2022
It was good to catch up with Bradecote and Catchpoll in Worcester, 1145, where discord is prevalent in one particular home, the center of the action. It is the home of a man and wife attached to the work center where bows are finely made. The household includes kitchen help, the man and wife and a young man who works on the bows.
Bradecote is anxiously awaiting the birth of his second child, but the Sheriff sends for him to assist in solving the murder of a wealthy Worcester burgess.
I have enjoyed 8 of the 10 books from this series in the past and plan to circle back to catch the missing two some time soon. The writing is fine, the time period portrayed with authenticity, the established relationships between Sheriff, Bradecote, Catchpoll and their young Sergeant Walkelin are lively.
Granted Advanced Reader Copy by Allison & Busby, Publication Mid-May 2022
Bradecote is anxiously awaiting the birth of his second child, but the Sheriff sends for him to assist in solving the murder of a wealthy Worcester burgess.
I have enjoyed 8 of the 10 books from this series in the past and plan to circle back to catch the missing two some time soon. The writing is fine, the time period portrayed with authenticity, the established relationships between Sheriff, Bradecote, Catchpoll and their young Sergeant Walkelin are lively.
Granted Advanced Reader Copy by Allison & Busby, Publication Mid-May 2022
May 14, 2022
“Is this a simple domestic murder that we can deal with today, or is there more to it? I expect you will say it isn’t going to be that simple, for it so rarely is…”
A TASTE FOR KILLING
Thank you, NetGalley, Sarah Harkswood, and Alison & Busby Publishing for the opportunity to read this book. It was just released yesterday, May 12th, 2022.
A Taste For Killing by Sarah Harkswood is a medieval mystery. The year is 1145 and Godfrey Bowyer and his wife Blanche have a difficult relationship. One night, voices are raised and tensions are high. So high, in fact, that pots are smashed against the wall. But that isn’t the highlight of the night. Both Godfrey and Blanche become seriously ill. It comes on suddenly and the healer can’t save Godrey. However, Blanche survives. A poisoning case should be a quick investigation. Hugh Bradecote and Sarjeant Catchpoll are the Sheriff’s men and are confident it will be over quickly. But this case seems to be more complex than they originally hoped…
I have been on a historical mystery kick as of late. It just seems to be a genre that I cannot get enough of, so I was thrilled to get this medieval mystery ARC. This should have been intriguing. The year is 1145 and that means England is in turmoil. They are currently in the middle of a Civil War. Stephen is King, but Empress Matilda is trying to assume the throne. There should be both religious and political background to this story. But alas…this tale is limited.
I understand that this isn’t going to be CSI or Law and Order but this book is mostly dialogue. It is just talking the entire time. And on top of that, it is all repetitive. The characters are very one-dimensional. I knew their names and a little bit about their background, but that is it. There is no character development in the slightest. And not only that but the ending was so predictable. So unfortunately this book was not a win for me. I rate this book 1 star.
A TASTE FOR KILLING
Thank you, NetGalley, Sarah Harkswood, and Alison & Busby Publishing for the opportunity to read this book. It was just released yesterday, May 12th, 2022.
A Taste For Killing by Sarah Harkswood is a medieval mystery. The year is 1145 and Godfrey Bowyer and his wife Blanche have a difficult relationship. One night, voices are raised and tensions are high. So high, in fact, that pots are smashed against the wall. But that isn’t the highlight of the night. Both Godfrey and Blanche become seriously ill. It comes on suddenly and the healer can’t save Godrey. However, Blanche survives. A poisoning case should be a quick investigation. Hugh Bradecote and Sarjeant Catchpoll are the Sheriff’s men and are confident it will be over quickly. But this case seems to be more complex than they originally hoped…
I have been on a historical mystery kick as of late. It just seems to be a genre that I cannot get enough of, so I was thrilled to get this medieval mystery ARC. This should have been intriguing. The year is 1145 and that means England is in turmoil. They are currently in the middle of a Civil War. Stephen is King, but Empress Matilda is trying to assume the throne. There should be both religious and political background to this story. But alas…this tale is limited.
I understand that this isn’t going to be CSI or Law and Order but this book is mostly dialogue. It is just talking the entire time. And on top of that, it is all repetitive. The characters are very one-dimensional. I knew their names and a little bit about their background, but that is it. There is no character development in the slightest. And not only that but the ending was so predictable. So unfortunately this book was not a win for me. I rate this book 1 star.
June 1, 2022
Puzzling deaths in medieval Worcester, 1145
A sudden death, apparently by poisoning has Lord Undersheriff Hugh Bradcote, Serjeant Catchpoll and Catchpoll’s journeyman, Young Walkelin baffled. When a wealthy Burgess, bow maker and arms supplier to the castle, Godfrey Bower and his wife suddenly take ill Bradcote and Catchpoll are called to investigate. All possibilities lead to someone in the household as the culprit. As their investigations deepen the poisoner seems to be in sight—all neatly tied up even, but Catchpoll is troubled by loose ends.
As I’ve said before watching the three mens’ relation develop is a pleasing part of the story. Young Walkelin whom Catchpoll took as his journeyman is coming along. Walkelins actions are confident and his thoughts clear as he puzzles his way through his part of the investigation. His thoughts are now turning to marriage, albeit with a Welsh girl which has his mother somewhat alarmed.
As the trio pull on those hanging threads, the poisoner’s plans begin to unravel and all is revealed.
There’s some lovely touches of continuity with characters from earlier tales and new introductions. I enjoy Master Roger the Healer. The much disliked Lord Furnaux, the Castle countable is once more ill met. All actions are of course at the pleasure of William de Beauchamp, the lord Sheriff of Worcestershire. I love his slightly weary sardonic repartee with Catchpoll in particular.
Another satisfying medieval mystery read from Hawkswood!
An Allison & Busby ARC via NetGalley
A sudden death, apparently by poisoning has Lord Undersheriff Hugh Bradcote, Serjeant Catchpoll and Catchpoll’s journeyman, Young Walkelin baffled. When a wealthy Burgess, bow maker and arms supplier to the castle, Godfrey Bower and his wife suddenly take ill Bradcote and Catchpoll are called to investigate. All possibilities lead to someone in the household as the culprit. As their investigations deepen the poisoner seems to be in sight—all neatly tied up even, but Catchpoll is troubled by loose ends.
As I’ve said before watching the three mens’ relation develop is a pleasing part of the story. Young Walkelin whom Catchpoll took as his journeyman is coming along. Walkelins actions are confident and his thoughts clear as he puzzles his way through his part of the investigation. His thoughts are now turning to marriage, albeit with a Welsh girl which has his mother somewhat alarmed.
As the trio pull on those hanging threads, the poisoner’s plans begin to unravel and all is revealed.
There’s some lovely touches of continuity with characters from earlier tales and new introductions. I enjoy Master Roger the Healer. The much disliked Lord Furnaux, the Castle countable is once more ill met. All actions are of course at the pleasure of William de Beauchamp, the lord Sheriff of Worcestershire. I love his slightly weary sardonic repartee with Catchpoll in particular.
Another satisfying medieval mystery read from Hawkswood!
An Allison & Busby ARC via NetGalley
May 14, 2022
I like the Bradecote and Catchpoll mediaeval mystery series, now with the addition of young Walkelin. The solution of crimes wasn´t as easy then as nowadays. The tenth book in the series - though being a standalone - shows the development of the investigating characters in finding the culprit in a poisoning case. Though the story sometimes drags, there are lots of possible culprits and red herrings till the case is solved. What I didn´t find easy to read was the "dialect" with the shortened words.
Thanks to Allison & Busby and Netgalley for the ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Allison & Busby and Netgalley for the ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Allison & Busby for the chance to read and review A Taste for Killing!
In a small 1145. Godfrey Bowyer, one of the least likeable people in Worcester, dies a painful death by poisoning. Suspicion falls on a whole host of people; his wife Blanche, who ate the same meal but survived; his brother who is in a ton of debt and may have wanted his business; the cook who hated the wife and may have intended to kill her; the servant who was pregnant with the masters child; the man whose wife Godfrey harassed.
While A Taste of Killing is interesting, it's a slow read mostly because it's written in the same dialect that was used in 1145, which slows a reader down. That being said, it keeps your interest for the most part and you can tell that they aren't going to stop digging and take an easy answer.
I had no idea that taste for killing was part of a larger series when I requested it, so I'm not sure if the characters are growing or staying the same. I didn't find most of the characters memorable, all three of the men kinda blur into one for me, and as this was a series I've missed things like when Walkelin fell for Eluned, etc.
While I love Blanche as a character, I wasn't happy that she was the one who had done it. I feel like that was so easy to do as she's an outsider and suddenly that one priest remembers her. She was fairly smart to have gotten away with what look like 2 other deaths, and I don't think she would have risked this all so suddenly; there were too many loose ends for her to do this so suddenly.
If you're reading this do keep in mind that Godfrey does totally deserve his end; he was pretty predatory towards a lot of women and an awful husband.
In a small 1145. Godfrey Bowyer, one of the least likeable people in Worcester, dies a painful death by poisoning. Suspicion falls on a whole host of people; his wife Blanche, who ate the same meal but survived; his brother who is in a ton of debt and may have wanted his business; the cook who hated the wife and may have intended to kill her; the servant who was pregnant with the masters child; the man whose wife Godfrey harassed.
While A Taste of Killing is interesting, it's a slow read mostly because it's written in the same dialect that was used in 1145, which slows a reader down. That being said, it keeps your interest for the most part and you can tell that they aren't going to stop digging and take an easy answer.
I had no idea that taste for killing was part of a larger series when I requested it, so I'm not sure if the characters are growing or staying the same. I didn't find most of the characters memorable, all three of the men kinda blur into one for me, and as this was a series I've missed things like when Walkelin fell for Eluned, etc.
While I love Blanche as a character, I wasn't happy that she was the one who had done it. I feel like that was so easy to do as she's an outsider and suddenly that one priest remembers her. She was fairly smart to have gotten away with what look like 2 other deaths, and I don't think she would have risked this all so suddenly; there were too many loose ends for her to do this so suddenly.
If you're reading this do keep in mind that Godfrey does totally deserve his end; he was pretty predatory towards a lot of women and an awful husband.
November 4, 2022
This was a wonderful read. A fascinating mix of historical novel, mystery story with drama thrown in, I really appreciated how much the author knows about the time period they are writing about. I stopped reading one afternoon and googled how to make potage and had it for dinner- thats how immersed I was. Highly recommended.
May 12, 2022
I first came across Bradcote and Catchpoll when I read River of Sins, the seventh book in the author’s historical crime series set in 12th century Worcester. That was back in December 2020 and since then I’ve devoured both the subsequent books in the series – Blood Runs Thicker and Wolf at the Door. Fortunately, for fans of the series such as myself, Sarah Hawkswood produces fresh instalments at a rate of knots.
A Taste for Killing takes up directly from events at the end of the previous book with Undersheriff Hugh Bradecote and his wife anxiously awaiting the birth of their second child. Mindful of Bradecote’s situation, Serjeant Catchpoll initially takes on the investigation into the murder of wealthy burgess, Godfrey Bowyer, with only the assistance of recently promoted Underserjeant Walkelin. Although it appears there are only a few individuals who would have had the opportunity to administer the poison, the murdered man had no shortage of enemies in the city.
The author gives us a real taste of what it must have been like to live in 12th century Worcester, conjuring up the sights, sounds and smells, as well as a sense of the local dialect (although Bradecote being a lord of the manor speaks Norman to his peers, or ‘Foreign’ as the locals call it).
Over the course of the series, the duo of Bradecote and Catchpoll has evolved into a trio with the addition of Walkelin who has grown from eager apprentice to becoming an integral part of the team, honing his ‘serjeanting senses’ along the way. He’s observant, has a good sense of intuition and can mingle with servants and traders. Even after all this time, Catchpoll still casts a proprietorial, sometimes approving, eye over Bradecote’s interrogation techniques whilst recognising that Bradecote’s rank can open doors that would otherwise be closed to him. Not so much good cop, bad cop as toff cop, common cop. What all three share is tenacity. As Walkelin observes, ‘Oft times we are called the lord Sheriff’s law hounds, and like a hound, we cannot leave a scent uninvestigated, a warm trail to go cold without us sniffin’ at it.’
The domestic side is not ignored either. Bradcote’s concern for his wife is endearing and Catchpoll has a caring wife always ready with a cup of warmed cider or advice to wrap up warm. Walkelin’s hopes of matrimony rest on his persuasive skills but it’s surprising what a way with preparing the ever-present pottage can do to change minds.
The unravelling of the mystery is nicely managed with a few red herrings along the way and a plethora of possible motives. As is often the case, Catchpoll’s local knowledge of family relationships and past grievances, as well as his ability to have his ear to the ground for gossip, are important in solving the mystery. His reputation as ‘a wily old bastard’ helps too. But young Walkelin plays his part as well, uncovering the nugget of information that proves someone is not what they profess to be.
If you’re looking for a enjoyable mystery with a well-constructed plot, colourful characters and interesting historical detail then I can heartily recommend A Taste of Killing. Or if you really want to indulge yourself, why not go back and read the whole series from the beginning (as I hope to do one day).
A Taste for Killing takes up directly from events at the end of the previous book with Undersheriff Hugh Bradecote and his wife anxiously awaiting the birth of their second child. Mindful of Bradecote’s situation, Serjeant Catchpoll initially takes on the investigation into the murder of wealthy burgess, Godfrey Bowyer, with only the assistance of recently promoted Underserjeant Walkelin. Although it appears there are only a few individuals who would have had the opportunity to administer the poison, the murdered man had no shortage of enemies in the city.
The author gives us a real taste of what it must have been like to live in 12th century Worcester, conjuring up the sights, sounds and smells, as well as a sense of the local dialect (although Bradecote being a lord of the manor speaks Norman to his peers, or ‘Foreign’ as the locals call it).
Over the course of the series, the duo of Bradecote and Catchpoll has evolved into a trio with the addition of Walkelin who has grown from eager apprentice to becoming an integral part of the team, honing his ‘serjeanting senses’ along the way. He’s observant, has a good sense of intuition and can mingle with servants and traders. Even after all this time, Catchpoll still casts a proprietorial, sometimes approving, eye over Bradecote’s interrogation techniques whilst recognising that Bradecote’s rank can open doors that would otherwise be closed to him. Not so much good cop, bad cop as toff cop, common cop. What all three share is tenacity. As Walkelin observes, ‘Oft times we are called the lord Sheriff’s law hounds, and like a hound, we cannot leave a scent uninvestigated, a warm trail to go cold without us sniffin’ at it.’
The domestic side is not ignored either. Bradcote’s concern for his wife is endearing and Catchpoll has a caring wife always ready with a cup of warmed cider or advice to wrap up warm. Walkelin’s hopes of matrimony rest on his persuasive skills but it’s surprising what a way with preparing the ever-present pottage can do to change minds.
The unravelling of the mystery is nicely managed with a few red herrings along the way and a plethora of possible motives. As is often the case, Catchpoll’s local knowledge of family relationships and past grievances, as well as his ability to have his ear to the ground for gossip, are important in solving the mystery. His reputation as ‘a wily old bastard’ helps too. But young Walkelin plays his part as well, uncovering the nugget of information that proves someone is not what they profess to be.
If you’re looking for a enjoyable mystery with a well-constructed plot, colourful characters and interesting historical detail then I can heartily recommend A Taste of Killing. Or if you really want to indulge yourself, why not go back and read the whole series from the beginning (as I hope to do one day).
May 22, 2022
In a household filled with animosity and secrets, it is hardly surprising that the head of the household is found poisoned, while its mistress suffers the consequences, though not fatally. Who in this day and age, would be brave enough to strike against their master - was it a member of his own household, some other, or another's agent? This was a period where the violent rebellion of servants against their masters (and wives against their husbands) was a serious concern, enough to warrant death by hanging (for men) and death by burning (for women). Much of the investigation centres around the household, the family and others whose interactions have brought them to the attention of our investigators. One question remains till the very end .... Who is Blanche Bowyer really?
Against this backdrop, our trio have their own concerns - Bradecote's wife is expecting their child, young Walkelin is dreading informing his mother on his choice of bride, and Catchpoll is feeling the slow creeping hand of age.
Again, much research has gone into the narrative to ensure the reader gets a good fell for the times and the long process of criminal investigations, which is at times, rudimentary, relying of quick-eyed officials and knowledgable locals, especially in a time when social connections, social and financial position, and a person or family's good name counted for much in the community, and in the assumption of guilt or innocence.
Against this backdrop, our trio have their own concerns - Bradecote's wife is expecting their child, young Walkelin is dreading informing his mother on his choice of bride, and Catchpoll is feeling the slow creeping hand of age.
Again, much research has gone into the narrative to ensure the reader gets a good fell for the times and the long process of criminal investigations, which is at times, rudimentary, relying of quick-eyed officials and knowledgable locals, especially in a time when social connections, social and financial position, and a person or family's good name counted for much in the community, and in the assumption of guilt or innocence.
April 5, 2022
I received this title from NetGalley and did not realize that it is the 10th book in the series. It is a cozy mystery novel set in medieval times, and cozy mysteries are not something I normally read although I do enjoy a good mystery. Like all good books within the genre I didn’t need to read the previous ones to become familiar with the cast of characters- I could easily pick up on the relationships of the existing cast without missing out on much.
The fact that it was set in a time period where there wasn’t nearly as much science behind investigation makes it interesting- there was no forensics team in medieval times, or a way to autopsy a body to determine the exact compounds within it. It means the story is very dialogue heavy as that is the primary means of investigation, so if you aren’t interested in the characters speaking- a lot- you won’t be interested in the story.
The plot itself is relatively simple- a man and his wife are poisoned, but he dies- who committed the murder in this unhappy marriage? The story mainly features male detectives and relies on the tropes of the time for women- which doesn’t necessarily detract from the overall narrative, but does make it slightly more predictable. I found it very repetitive at times; both in conversations being had and in word choice. Every time someone bows they say ‘obeisance’ and many people are deemed as looking ‘harassed’- I actually got tired of reading these phrases truth be told.
Overall, I won’t be reading anymore books from this series .The book felt slow and slightly repetitive, so unless you’re already a fan of this series or are very interested in this more niche genre, I would probably pass.
The fact that it was set in a time period where there wasn’t nearly as much science behind investigation makes it interesting- there was no forensics team in medieval times, or a way to autopsy a body to determine the exact compounds within it. It means the story is very dialogue heavy as that is the primary means of investigation, so if you aren’t interested in the characters speaking- a lot- you won’t be interested in the story.
The plot itself is relatively simple- a man and his wife are poisoned, but he dies- who committed the murder in this unhappy marriage? The story mainly features male detectives and relies on the tropes of the time for women- which doesn’t necessarily detract from the overall narrative, but does make it slightly more predictable. I found it very repetitive at times; both in conversations being had and in word choice. Every time someone bows they say ‘obeisance’ and many people are deemed as looking ‘harassed’- I actually got tired of reading these phrases truth be told.
Overall, I won’t be reading anymore books from this series .The book felt slow and slightly repetitive, so unless you’re already a fan of this series or are very interested in this more niche genre, I would probably pass.
May 12, 2022
It is 1145, not the time but the year. In the Worcester home, come workshop, come business, of Godfrey Bowyer the servants are listening to the Master and Mistress having a shouting match over dinner in the hall. As befits the master of a significant trade, he has the status of a Burgess. The noise from the hall escalates, tableware is thrown, crockery is smashed, the mistress retires upstairs and the maid clears up the mess. Shortly thereafter Godfrey dies in agony and his wife is violently ill but survives. Given his status, the local law enforcement is called, conclude that they have been poisoned and an investigation begins. But, as this is 1145, investigation means observation of the scene and the corpus and talking to people to establish a background. This initially looks fairly straightforward, but suspicions rapidly arise as to the identity of the culprit. The wife, the servants, the estranged brother, plus most of the rest of the townsfolk – for he is much disliked if not hated – are all in the frame. The story runs through a number of permutations although it is essentially quite a linear plot; meandering rather than twisting.
At heart this is a police procedural, albeit one set in a medieval environment. Criminal investigation is the provenance of the Lord Sheriff (~ Chief Constable) and is delegated to the Lord Undersheriff (~ DCI}, Serjeant (~DI) and Underserjeant (~DC). Some authenticity is lent by the interspersion of contemporary words and phrases, which is interesting but can be annoying when they then require translation. There is also a fair bit of repetition, far more than needed to keep the reader on track with the investigation. There is a similar effect with background detail. The book is the tenth in a series featuring the same set of investigators so must be doing something right, but I wasn’t impressed.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
At heart this is a police procedural, albeit one set in a medieval environment. Criminal investigation is the provenance of the Lord Sheriff (~ Chief Constable) and is delegated to the Lord Undersheriff (~ DCI}, Serjeant (~DI) and Underserjeant (~DC). Some authenticity is lent by the interspersion of contemporary words and phrases, which is interesting but can be annoying when they then require translation. There is also a fair bit of repetition, far more than needed to keep the reader on track with the investigation. There is a similar effect with background detail. The book is the tenth in a series featuring the same set of investigators so must be doing something right, but I wasn’t impressed.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
July 15, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an eARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book definitely gave Agatha Christie vibes with how it was written. It follows the same formulaic format as Agatha Christie books where a murder happens and then the main characters go and investigate by talking to each of the suspects.
I think that the author did well to encapsulate this style and if you are a fan of these types of books you would probably also love this series of books.
I however, did find it slightly boring at times where it felt that the plot wasn't really moving because of the other storylines to create a "break" for the reader.
However, I found no issues with how the book was presented, the cover is amazing, and the book does what it is set out to do.
This book definitely gave Agatha Christie vibes with how it was written. It follows the same formulaic format as Agatha Christie books where a murder happens and then the main characters go and investigate by talking to each of the suspects.
I think that the author did well to encapsulate this style and if you are a fan of these types of books you would probably also love this series of books.
I however, did find it slightly boring at times where it felt that the plot wasn't really moving because of the other storylines to create a "break" for the reader.
However, I found no issues with how the book was presented, the cover is amazing, and the book does what it is set out to do.
May 9, 2022
I love good detective and mysteries books. And the fact that this one set in medieval setting even better. The most intriguing me is how the investigation going on without any modern helps such as tools, labs and studies about criminals mind. How all only heavy relaying on interview and banter between characters.
This book actually number 10th in series. Lucky you can read it as standalone because so far we still can enjoy the story without reading the previous one. The plot kinda slow but I really appreciate how author doing her research to give us a glimpse of a medieval crime in investigations.
I received a free copy of this book, but my opinion are my own.
This book actually number 10th in series. Lucky you can read it as standalone because so far we still can enjoy the story without reading the previous one. The plot kinda slow but I really appreciate how author doing her research to give us a glimpse of a medieval crime in investigations.
I received a free copy of this book, but my opinion are my own.
April 6, 2022
I enjoyed this medieaval cosy mystery veey much! I found it entertaining with compelling characters. The plot was good: I guessed about the conclusion early but was never completely sure till towards the end of the book! Many twists and turns make this book compelling and a page-turner!
I received a digital ARC of this novel from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a digital ARC of this novel from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2022
In this story there are the usual investigators, Lord Bradcote, Sergeant Catchpole and Under-Sergeant Walkelin. In this book, the reader learns a little more about Walkelin and his family. It was good to see him becoming more confident in himself. There is a mystery to solve and a good deal of investigations have to take place before the culprit is found. It did keep me guessing as to who it might be. There is the person’s rank to take into account when questioning certain people and this reflects the situation at this time. I was surprised that there was an English /Welsh mistrust with some people. I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more set in this period. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 9, 2022
It's 1145 and Godfrey Bowyer has been fatally poisoned, his wife Blanche is ill too. Roger the Healer has been sent for, to no avail. Serjeant Catchpoll is called upon, for a medieval murder mystery commences.
If you like a historical novel, this is pleasing. If historical novels are not your 'thing' this would still be a good 'detective' novel nonetheless. Certainly much research has been completed and is evident in the writing itself and between the lines, and that is its strength.
The first chapter commences at a pace and the reader is thrown into a domestic scene, where you can hear the raised voices and noises from servants and masters. I enjoyed the vocabulary used, which reflects the medieval scenes and atmospheres: 'owlishly' for example, exudes and furthers the medieval feel. For this reader, the colloquial dialogue is a hindrance, but I do state this as a personal preference, for the syntax is thoughtfully used.
I found that the ensuing chapters lingered a little too long, and I felt they could have been condensed further. However, after about halfway, the pace resumed with an interesting narrative as the story and search for the murderer resumed. The final chapters do go at a pace of knots towards the final conclusion.
I enjoyed the book and the historical references, the vocabulary used is elegant, however, the 'lingering' chapters detract somewhat - some readers may stop at this point and not wish to complete the novel, which would be a shame. It has merits - 3/5
If you like a historical novel, this is pleasing. If historical novels are not your 'thing' this would still be a good 'detective' novel nonetheless. Certainly much research has been completed and is evident in the writing itself and between the lines, and that is its strength.
The first chapter commences at a pace and the reader is thrown into a domestic scene, where you can hear the raised voices and noises from servants and masters. I enjoyed the vocabulary used, which reflects the medieval scenes and atmospheres: 'owlishly' for example, exudes and furthers the medieval feel. For this reader, the colloquial dialogue is a hindrance, but I do state this as a personal preference, for the syntax is thoughtfully used.
I found that the ensuing chapters lingered a little too long, and I felt they could have been condensed further. However, after about halfway, the pace resumed with an interesting narrative as the story and search for the murderer resumed. The final chapters do go at a pace of knots towards the final conclusion.
I enjoyed the book and the historical references, the vocabulary used is elegant, however, the 'lingering' chapters detract somewhat - some readers may stop at this point and not wish to complete the novel, which would be a shame. It has merits - 3/5
May 2, 2022
Sarah Hawkswood has crafted another rewarding read in her Bradecoat and Catchpoll (and Walkelin) mystery series. The characters continue to evolve, and seeing their development as one moves from one book to the next is like coming closer to a long-time friend.
In this title, Bradecoat, a minor Lord and the highest ranking character in this investigative trio, is anxiously awaiting the birth of his second child—which will be the birth of his first child by his second wife. His beloved first wife died giving birth to their son, and Bradecoat can't escape his worries about the danger of childbirth. He'll be delighted to become a father for the second time, but is terrified that his wife may pay for that birth with her life.
Young Walkelin is growing more confident as an officer of the law and gradually finds his interactions with Bradecoat and Catchpoll more comfortable. He's decided that with a steady income and increasing responsibility, he's ready to marry, but suspects his mother will object to his chosen bride. He'll have to assert a new independence without adding tensions to what could become a difficult mother-in-law/daughter-in-law relationship.
Catchpoll, meanwhile is Catchpoll. Very few things get by him, and his astuteness and dark sense of humor make him the strongest personality among the three.
The mystery this time around is gratifyingly complex. The three identify the murderer at about the 80% mark, so the finish isn't a big surprise, but readers have to do a lot of guessing up to that point.
If you enjoy historical mysteries, I can highly recommend this series to you. Time spent with Bradecoat, Catchpoll, and Walkelin is always time well spent.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
In this title, Bradecoat, a minor Lord and the highest ranking character in this investigative trio, is anxiously awaiting the birth of his second child—which will be the birth of his first child by his second wife. His beloved first wife died giving birth to their son, and Bradecoat can't escape his worries about the danger of childbirth. He'll be delighted to become a father for the second time, but is terrified that his wife may pay for that birth with her life.
Young Walkelin is growing more confident as an officer of the law and gradually finds his interactions with Bradecoat and Catchpoll more comfortable. He's decided that with a steady income and increasing responsibility, he's ready to marry, but suspects his mother will object to his chosen bride. He'll have to assert a new independence without adding tensions to what could become a difficult mother-in-law/daughter-in-law relationship.
Catchpoll, meanwhile is Catchpoll. Very few things get by him, and his astuteness and dark sense of humor make him the strongest personality among the three.
The mystery this time around is gratifyingly complex. The three identify the murderer at about the 80% mark, so the finish isn't a big surprise, but readers have to do a lot of guessing up to that point.
If you enjoy historical mysteries, I can highly recommend this series to you. Time spent with Bradecoat, Catchpoll, and Walkelin is always time well spent.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
April 14, 2022
I received an arc from NetGalley.
2,5 stars
I requested this arc for two reasons. Firstly, the cover, with it's mushrooms (I'm guessing either a type of Mycena or Gliophorus) In combination with the title, I was excited to find out which one it would be, because as far as I know, neither type is poisonous, and I was looking forward to either learns something new, or discover a type of mushroom I didn't know.
My second reason was that this is a detective novel set in Medieval times. This gives a whole new perspective on research and I was excited for that.
I did not know this was the 10th book in a series. Lucky for me, this book can totally be read as a standalone. I had no trouble understanding any of the relationships between the characters as they were all clearly explained. Which was good for me, but if I had read the first nine books getting a "recap" on everyone's relationships and backgrounds would be rather annoying, so it's kind of a double-edged sword.
The characters were fine, nothing special. They were mostly exactly what you would expect for a book as this. And I say that as someone who never even read a Medieval mystery before. The only sorta complex character was Blanche, but everything about her gets revealed at the end, so it doesn't really help the story.
The plot was fine. A poisoning, a disliked man dies, who did it? Kinda sad the poisoning did not happen with mushrooms though, looking at the cover and all. Everything that happened was kinda super obvious, except for a few extra bits at the end (which gave background and I enjoyed, but had little impact on the actual case). And I actively try NOT to guess the killer, because I feel like if I figure out what's happening before the "amazing sherrifs/detective etc" it just doesn't feel like they're all that impressive. To be fair, this wasn't a book that had genius detectives so the only point I want to make that the plot was obvious even when I wasn't trying to figure things out myself.
The biggest problem in this book was the pacing. I don't mind a slow, character driven book. I do mind reading the same conversations over and over again. There was A LOT of repetition that was unnecessary in my opinion. It made the book drag at times, and without that it would have been a lot more engaging.
Also there was a mushroom poisoning in this book as well, though not with the mushrooms on the cover, so that was a bummer.
Another thing I disliked was the fact that the ending left some loose ends. There were so few things that they could have shown us near the end, and instead of the few things that I was curious about, they went with a simple conversation that added little to it, which is such a pity. I guess this might be a way to get you interested in the next book of the series, but for me it just has the opposite effect.
Overall it was a decent enough read, but nothing special. Nothing stood out to me, and nothing engaged me. As often happens when I write reviews, I decided to change my original rating from 3 to 2,5 stars.
2,5 stars
I requested this arc for two reasons. Firstly, the cover, with it's mushrooms (I'm guessing either a type of Mycena or Gliophorus) In combination with the title, I was excited to find out which one it would be, because as far as I know, neither type is poisonous, and I was looking forward to either learns something new, or discover a type of mushroom I didn't know.
My second reason was that this is a detective novel set in Medieval times. This gives a whole new perspective on research and I was excited for that.
I did not know this was the 10th book in a series. Lucky for me, this book can totally be read as a standalone. I had no trouble understanding any of the relationships between the characters as they were all clearly explained. Which was good for me, but if I had read the first nine books getting a "recap" on everyone's relationships and backgrounds would be rather annoying, so it's kind of a double-edged sword.
The characters were fine, nothing special. They were mostly exactly what you would expect for a book as this. And I say that as someone who never even read a Medieval mystery before. The only sorta complex character was Blanche, but everything about her gets revealed at the end, so it doesn't really help the story.
The plot was fine. A poisoning, a disliked man dies, who did it? Kinda sad the poisoning did not happen with mushrooms though, looking at the cover and all. Everything that happened was kinda super obvious, except for a few extra bits at the end (which gave background and I enjoyed, but had little impact on the actual case). And I actively try NOT to guess the killer, because I feel like if I figure out what's happening before the "amazing sherrifs/detective etc" it just doesn't feel like they're all that impressive. To be fair, this wasn't a book that had genius detectives so the only point I want to make that the plot was obvious even when I wasn't trying to figure things out myself.
The biggest problem in this book was the pacing. I don't mind a slow, character driven book. I do mind reading the same conversations over and over again. There was A LOT of repetition that was unnecessary in my opinion. It made the book drag at times, and without that it would have been a lot more engaging.
Also there was a mushroom poisoning in this book as well, though not with the mushrooms on the cover, so that was a bummer.
Another thing I disliked was the fact that the ending left some loose ends. There were so few things that they could have shown us near the end, and instead of the few things that I was curious about, they went with a simple conversation that added little to it, which is such a pity. I guess this might be a way to get you interested in the next book of the series, but for me it just has the opposite effect.
Overall it was a decent enough read, but nothing special. Nothing stood out to me, and nothing engaged me. As often happens when I write reviews, I decided to change my original rating from 3 to 2,5 stars.
May 12, 2022
Just finished this after having not read the previous 9 books. I actually found it really enjoyable. Not a time period I often read from so some of the language was tricky to begin with. I did find them a little slow to connect the dots. But on the whole I really enjoyed this book and would pick up more from this series.
March 30, 2022
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Allison & Busby for an advanced copy of this historical mystery.
One of the interesting things about the genre of mystery is that it can be told almost in anytime and literally anywhere. A crime is necessary, anything from a missing trinket to multiple murder and a person whose sole purpose is to investigate the crime, and see it to a conclusion. Add in interesting characters, make the setting real to both the reader and the people dwelling in it and you have a mystery story. Add in a good mix of historical accuracy as Sarah Hawkswood does in her book A Taste for Killing, the tenth book in the Bradecote and Catchpoll investigations and you will have a very enjoyable story.
January 1145 and a bow maker and his wife are given a dinner full of poison. The bow maker does not survive but his wife does, leading to what seems to be a simple investigations for th sheriff's men. Unfortunately murder is never simple and the victim was not a well liked man in the community, with suspects a plenty, including his own brother, the town bailiff and other powerful men, and women who would like this case to be closed. And more bodies are starting to appear.
A medieval set mystery full of history, with a good setting and interesting characters. Bradecote and Catchpoll are very strong characters, rich in backstory and have a very buddy buddy relationship that helps move the story along. The mystery is fair, and unfolds well, and never bogs down always moving along at a very good pace. I really enjoyed the setting and the use of language of the period, which I thought added a good touch to the writing.
Recommended for fans of the Brother Cadfael mysteries, as they are set about the same time and area. Also for readers of Edward Marston or the Michael Jecks mystery series, sheriffs solving crimes in medieval England. This is my first book by Sarah Hawkswood, but I plan to go back and read the others in the series.
One of the interesting things about the genre of mystery is that it can be told almost in anytime and literally anywhere. A crime is necessary, anything from a missing trinket to multiple murder and a person whose sole purpose is to investigate the crime, and see it to a conclusion. Add in interesting characters, make the setting real to both the reader and the people dwelling in it and you have a mystery story. Add in a good mix of historical accuracy as Sarah Hawkswood does in her book A Taste for Killing, the tenth book in the Bradecote and Catchpoll investigations and you will have a very enjoyable story.
January 1145 and a bow maker and his wife are given a dinner full of poison. The bow maker does not survive but his wife does, leading to what seems to be a simple investigations for th sheriff's men. Unfortunately murder is never simple and the victim was not a well liked man in the community, with suspects a plenty, including his own brother, the town bailiff and other powerful men, and women who would like this case to be closed. And more bodies are starting to appear.
A medieval set mystery full of history, with a good setting and interesting characters. Bradecote and Catchpoll are very strong characters, rich in backstory and have a very buddy buddy relationship that helps move the story along. The mystery is fair, and unfolds well, and never bogs down always moving along at a very good pace. I really enjoyed the setting and the use of language of the period, which I thought added a good touch to the writing.
Recommended for fans of the Brother Cadfael mysteries, as they are set about the same time and area. Also for readers of Edward Marston or the Michael Jecks mystery series, sheriffs solving crimes in medieval England. This is my first book by Sarah Hawkswood, but I plan to go back and read the others in the series.
May 12, 2022
I am always glad to run across a new-to-me author, and I was delighted to read this book. Sarah Hawkswood is a fine writer and made this mystery very enjoyable. "A Taste For Killing" is the tenth book in a series which I am going to enjoy reading.
This is historical fiction set in Worcester in 1145. I love medieval mysteries (Jeri Westerson I am looking at you), and this one was great. Bradecote, Catchpoll and their protege Walkelin make excellent protagonists, and I didn't see the end coming.
If you are new to Hawkswood, as I was, you will have no trouble following along. This cozy mystery is a pleasure to read, and I heartily recommend it.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
This is historical fiction set in Worcester in 1145. I love medieval mysteries (Jeri Westerson I am looking at you), and this one was great. Bradecote, Catchpoll and their protege Walkelin make excellent protagonists, and I didn't see the end coming.
If you are new to Hawkswood, as I was, you will have no trouble following along. This cozy mystery is a pleasure to read, and I heartily recommend it.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
August 29, 2022
A Taste for Killing is a medieval mystery novel, surrounding a murder that happened. This is actually the tenth installment in the series, which I didn't know at the time of requesting the book on Netgalley. Luckily, the story can be read as a standalone, so there were no problems with following the plot.
The story goes: it's the year 1145. and the Bowyer household is shaken by tragedy. Amidst one of the usual marital spats, Godfrey Bowyer ends up dead, killed by poison. His wife has also been poisoned, but she survives. Now the question is, who would want to kill Godfrey? It turns out there are many suspects, as he was the best bow maker but not very liked - from his wife, his estranged brother to pretty much everyone he came across, everyone is a suspect. Undersheriff Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll, and Underserjeant Walkelin are trying to solve this crime, while also solving some personal issues.
Now, when I requested this book, I will admit I only saw the lovely cover and saw the words 'murder investigation' and not thought much further. I didn't really have any expectations from this book, as I assumed this would be nothing like more modern murder mysteries given the time period. However, I didn't really expect how hard this book would be for me to get into. I found the dialogue grating and hard to read, which usually I would be able to overlook but this book was mostly dialogue. I assume there is no other way to investigate in the 12th century but to interview people, and the investigators talked among themselves the rest of the time. There were little to no descriptions, internal monologues, and such. Asides from that, the conversations felt repetitive and like the same point was reiterated one too many times.
The issue I had with the dialogue was the way sentences were structured and generally how the characters spoke. I assume this was done to give the feel of 'old times' but for me, it just meant nothing was holding my attention. Some words were shortened, the sentence structure was altered, characters said things like 'I cooks' and 'We wants' and it really wasn't for me, I think. As far as I know, the language used in England in the 12th century was Middle English, which is entirely different than modern English, so I assume this was a stylistic choice. (Of course, I am no expert in history of English at all, and I am not implying that the book should've been written in Middle English for accuracy, I'm just meaning this was not done for authenticity, but just to give the 'feel' of it)
Other than that, you can clearly see the author has done her research incredibly well, the setting seems vivid, the characters are interesting (if a bit detached), and overall the social hierarchy, interactions, and the process of crime investigation were very well done. I enjoyed the characters we follow, especially Bradecote. Perhaps it's because I think we got the most of his internal process to see in this novel, but he seemed very well-rounded and genuinely enjoyable as a character to read about. The other two characters we followed seemed interesting as well, but they stood out to me less. Maybe had I read the first nine books in the series I wouldn't be thinking that, but based solely on this novel, that is how I feel.
There were some other things I haven't really enjoyed reading this. Of course, given the time, you would expect some outdated social norms to be strewn about, but I didn't really like reading them. Especially things like "A man has a right to take a hand to a bad wife." and while this was challenged, it wasn't with 'No one should hit their wife' it was challenged with "But you are not a 'bad wife', Mistress, but a loyal one...". This just didn't sit right with me, at all.
(Spoilers ahead)
Another thing I didn't particularly enjoy was the reveal of the murderer. I thought it was unlikely that Blanche, Godfrey's wife was the actual killer. While the book definitely had clues pointing to it, I feel like her reasoning, the way it was explained was so shakey and hard to believe. She was in no matter stupid, and this just seemed like stupidity and sloppiness on her part.
All in all, I don't think this is a bad book at all, it just wasn't for me. I'm sure there are plenty of people who would enjoy this series, even though I don't think I will be reading more from it. If you are someone who's a fan of historical, slow-paced mysteries and enjoy stories that are dialogue-heavy this might be for you!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review!
The story goes: it's the year 1145. and the Bowyer household is shaken by tragedy. Amidst one of the usual marital spats, Godfrey Bowyer ends up dead, killed by poison. His wife has also been poisoned, but she survives. Now the question is, who would want to kill Godfrey? It turns out there are many suspects, as he was the best bow maker but not very liked - from his wife, his estranged brother to pretty much everyone he came across, everyone is a suspect. Undersheriff Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll, and Underserjeant Walkelin are trying to solve this crime, while also solving some personal issues.
Now, when I requested this book, I will admit I only saw the lovely cover and saw the words 'murder investigation' and not thought much further. I didn't really have any expectations from this book, as I assumed this would be nothing like more modern murder mysteries given the time period. However, I didn't really expect how hard this book would be for me to get into. I found the dialogue grating and hard to read, which usually I would be able to overlook but this book was mostly dialogue. I assume there is no other way to investigate in the 12th century but to interview people, and the investigators talked among themselves the rest of the time. There were little to no descriptions, internal monologues, and such. Asides from that, the conversations felt repetitive and like the same point was reiterated one too many times.
The issue I had with the dialogue was the way sentences were structured and generally how the characters spoke. I assume this was done to give the feel of 'old times' but for me, it just meant nothing was holding my attention. Some words were shortened, the sentence structure was altered, characters said things like 'I cooks' and 'We wants' and it really wasn't for me, I think. As far as I know, the language used in England in the 12th century was Middle English, which is entirely different than modern English, so I assume this was a stylistic choice. (Of course, I am no expert in history of English at all, and I am not implying that the book should've been written in Middle English for accuracy, I'm just meaning this was not done for authenticity, but just to give the 'feel' of it)
Other than that, you can clearly see the author has done her research incredibly well, the setting seems vivid, the characters are interesting (if a bit detached), and overall the social hierarchy, interactions, and the process of crime investigation were very well done. I enjoyed the characters we follow, especially Bradecote. Perhaps it's because I think we got the most of his internal process to see in this novel, but he seemed very well-rounded and genuinely enjoyable as a character to read about. The other two characters we followed seemed interesting as well, but they stood out to me less. Maybe had I read the first nine books in the series I wouldn't be thinking that, but based solely on this novel, that is how I feel.
There were some other things I haven't really enjoyed reading this. Of course, given the time, you would expect some outdated social norms to be strewn about, but I didn't really like reading them. Especially things like "A man has a right to take a hand to a bad wife." and while this was challenged, it wasn't with 'No one should hit their wife' it was challenged with "But you are not a 'bad wife', Mistress, but a loyal one...". This just didn't sit right with me, at all.
(Spoilers ahead)
Another thing I didn't particularly enjoy was the reveal of the murderer. I thought it was unlikely that Blanche, Godfrey's wife was the actual killer. While the book definitely had clues pointing to it, I feel like her reasoning, the way it was explained was so shakey and hard to believe. She was in no matter stupid, and this just seemed like stupidity and sloppiness on her part.
All in all, I don't think this is a bad book at all, it just wasn't for me. I'm sure there are plenty of people who would enjoy this series, even though I don't think I will be reading more from it. If you are someone who's a fan of historical, slow-paced mysteries and enjoy stories that are dialogue-heavy this might be for you!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review!
January 10, 2023
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
A Taste for Killing is the 10th book in Sarah Hawkswood's medieval Bradecote & Catchpoll mystery series. Released 12th May 2022 by Allison & Busby, it's 352 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is an intricately crafted and well engineered mystery. The author has wrapped it around a meticulous and accurate historical framework so well and seamlessly that it's not at all clear where real actual history shades over into fiction. The plot and background are self contained in this volume and it's not necessary to have read the previous books to keep up with the story here. The pacing is occasionally a trifle measured/slow, but I found the whole a delightful read. I never felt lost or confused; it works very well as a standalone mystery.
It's set in 1145 so the investigation is different from modern procedurals. The language is fairly clean, and the prose is well written and I never found myself yanked out of the narrative by anachronistic or clumsy dialogue or historical mistakes (although I am NOT a historian).
I would heartily recommend this one to readers of the historical murder mystery genre, especially fans of Sharon Kay Penman, Ellis Peters, Candace Robb, and Susanna Gregory (and similar). Fans of well written character driven mystery from any period will find much to enjoy here. Since there are now 10 books extant with an 11th due out in 2nd quarter 2023, it would make a fun buddy/bookclub/binge read for fans of the genre.
Four and a half stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
A Taste for Killing is the 10th book in Sarah Hawkswood's medieval Bradecote & Catchpoll mystery series. Released 12th May 2022 by Allison & Busby, it's 352 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is an intricately crafted and well engineered mystery. The author has wrapped it around a meticulous and accurate historical framework so well and seamlessly that it's not at all clear where real actual history shades over into fiction. The plot and background are self contained in this volume and it's not necessary to have read the previous books to keep up with the story here. The pacing is occasionally a trifle measured/slow, but I found the whole a delightful read. I never felt lost or confused; it works very well as a standalone mystery.
It's set in 1145 so the investigation is different from modern procedurals. The language is fairly clean, and the prose is well written and I never found myself yanked out of the narrative by anachronistic or clumsy dialogue or historical mistakes (although I am NOT a historian).
I would heartily recommend this one to readers of the historical murder mystery genre, especially fans of Sharon Kay Penman, Ellis Peters, Candace Robb, and Susanna Gregory (and similar). Fans of well written character driven mystery from any period will find much to enjoy here. Since there are now 10 books extant with an 11th due out in 2nd quarter 2023, it would make a fun buddy/bookclub/binge read for fans of the genre.
Four and a half stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
March 22, 2022
I received this book on NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This was labeled as a “medieval mystery”, and the title harkened back to the first book in the beloved Brother Cadfael series, A MORBID TASTE FOR BONES, so I thought I would pick it up. What I was hoping for was a thoughtfully crafted mystery steeped in the minutiae of medieval life, with some deeper theme illuminating the nature of humanity.
What I got instead was a rehashing, over and over again, of the murder scene — of particular actions — of the same four or five characters having the same conversations. Nothing seemed to progress. I had the distinct impression that the town’s inhabitants were dolls, moving and speaking when the author needed them for a scene but otherwise completely static.
It’s perhaps unfair to compare this to the Brother Cadfael books by Ellis Peters, but Hawkswood invites the comparison by setting the series in the civil war between Stephen and Maud in the 1100s, not to mention the strong resemblance between Hugh Bradecote and Peters’ Hugh Beringar. Where Peters’ Shrewsbury is vibrant and populated, Hawkswood’s Worchester feels as if its streets are empty of life. This is the tenth book in this series — I have not read the others — and yet characters like Roger the Healer, who one would have expected to see in other books, and whose history would logically be known to Catchpoll and Bradecote, tell their life stories on page for the asking.
Overall, I found this book exasperating and dull. A medieval mystery does not have to do the same thing as Peters’ Brother Cadfael or Eco’s THE NAME OF THE ROSE. However, if the attempt is made to copy Peters, the skill in craft is necessary to pull it off. Hawkswood does not have that skill.
(I got around 30% of the way through the book and then read the ending. The ending, to my mind, left unresolved and unexamined a number of social and ethical questions. The quality of the town map in the front matter was bad; I have made better maps for my Dungeons and Dragons campaign.)
This was labeled as a “medieval mystery”, and the title harkened back to the first book in the beloved Brother Cadfael series, A MORBID TASTE FOR BONES, so I thought I would pick it up. What I was hoping for was a thoughtfully crafted mystery steeped in the minutiae of medieval life, with some deeper theme illuminating the nature of humanity.
What I got instead was a rehashing, over and over again, of the murder scene — of particular actions — of the same four or five characters having the same conversations. Nothing seemed to progress. I had the distinct impression that the town’s inhabitants were dolls, moving and speaking when the author needed them for a scene but otherwise completely static.
It’s perhaps unfair to compare this to the Brother Cadfael books by Ellis Peters, but Hawkswood invites the comparison by setting the series in the civil war between Stephen and Maud in the 1100s, not to mention the strong resemblance between Hugh Bradecote and Peters’ Hugh Beringar. Where Peters’ Shrewsbury is vibrant and populated, Hawkswood’s Worchester feels as if its streets are empty of life. This is the tenth book in this series — I have not read the others — and yet characters like Roger the Healer, who one would have expected to see in other books, and whose history would logically be known to Catchpoll and Bradecote, tell their life stories on page for the asking.
Overall, I found this book exasperating and dull. A medieval mystery does not have to do the same thing as Peters’ Brother Cadfael or Eco’s THE NAME OF THE ROSE. However, if the attempt is made to copy Peters, the skill in craft is necessary to pull it off. Hawkswood does not have that skill.
(I got around 30% of the way through the book and then read the ending. The ending, to my mind, left unresolved and unexamined a number of social and ethical questions. The quality of the town map in the front matter was bad; I have made better maps for my Dungeons and Dragons campaign.)
July 20, 2022
Sarah Hawkswood’s A Taste for Killing is an enjoyable and engaging crime novel set in the 12th Century that will keep readers entertained from beginning to end.
In 1145, Godfrey Bowyer is the best bow maker in Worcester, but while his craftsmanship is exemplary, his personality leaves a lot to be desired. Nobody has a good word to say about Godfrey and when he is viciously poisoned, nobody is surprised. But just who could have poisoned him? His wife Blanche was also struck down after eating the same meal, although luckily she survived the attack. The Sherriff’s men, Hugh Bradecote and Serjeant Catchpool, need to figure out who the poisoner is and they initially think that they will find out whodunnit in no time. After all, there is only a limited number of people who could have poisoned Godfrey, but which one of them did it?
Could it be his younger brother who had been cruelly ostracized? Orderic the Bailiff, whose wife had to endure Godfrey’s sleazy attentions? Or perhaps Blanche herself had orchestrated the whole thing and poisoned herself in order to throw the Sheriff’s men off the scent? Bradecote and Catchpoll have got quite a challenge on their hands and distractions are the very last thing which the dynamic duo need, but with their personal lives getting even more complicated, will they manage to find the killer before another dead body is found? Or will this case leave them completely dumbfounded?
A terrific historical mystery teeming with humour, red herrings, shocking secrets and jaw-dropping revelations, Sarah Hawkswood’s A Taste for Killing is sure to delight. The twelfth century is brilliantly recreated and evoked and readers will be completely transported to Medieval England and feel as if they are investigating this murder alongside the wonderful Bradecote and Catchpoll.
A rip-roaring mystery full of twists I didn’t see coming, Sarah Hawkswood does not disappoint with her latest Medieval thriller, A Taste for Killing.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
In 1145, Godfrey Bowyer is the best bow maker in Worcester, but while his craftsmanship is exemplary, his personality leaves a lot to be desired. Nobody has a good word to say about Godfrey and when he is viciously poisoned, nobody is surprised. But just who could have poisoned him? His wife Blanche was also struck down after eating the same meal, although luckily she survived the attack. The Sherriff’s men, Hugh Bradecote and Serjeant Catchpool, need to figure out who the poisoner is and they initially think that they will find out whodunnit in no time. After all, there is only a limited number of people who could have poisoned Godfrey, but which one of them did it?
Could it be his younger brother who had been cruelly ostracized? Orderic the Bailiff, whose wife had to endure Godfrey’s sleazy attentions? Or perhaps Blanche herself had orchestrated the whole thing and poisoned herself in order to throw the Sheriff’s men off the scent? Bradecote and Catchpoll have got quite a challenge on their hands and distractions are the very last thing which the dynamic duo need, but with their personal lives getting even more complicated, will they manage to find the killer before another dead body is found? Or will this case leave them completely dumbfounded?
A terrific historical mystery teeming with humour, red herrings, shocking secrets and jaw-dropping revelations, Sarah Hawkswood’s A Taste for Killing is sure to delight. The twelfth century is brilliantly recreated and evoked and readers will be completely transported to Medieval England and feel as if they are investigating this murder alongside the wonderful Bradecote and Catchpoll.
A rip-roaring mystery full of twists I didn’t see coming, Sarah Hawkswood does not disappoint with her latest Medieval thriller, A Taste for Killing.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 16, 2022
Master Godfrey Bowyer and his wife Blanche are arguing again, and throwing crockery, within earshot of the servants, Gode, Runild and Alwin, who will have to clean up the mess. But before anyone can retire, the Master and Mistress collapse vomiting, the Master to his death. The healer pronounces it a case of poison, and Serjeant Catchpoll is summoned, bringing along his journeyman Walkelin. The bow-maker was little liked, but who would go as far as murder?
They report to the lord sheriff William de Beauchamp, and Catchpoll rides to inform lord Bradecote.
At some point in the past, the Master’s roving eye had caught Runild, and the effect is beginning to show. Mistress Blanche had motive aplenty, but why would she have knowingly taken the poison, too? Godfrey had taken her bowl after she had thrown his against the wall, so it could be that she herself was the intended target.
Godfrey’s brother Herluin the Strengere arrives, expecting to inherit the business. He had been seen a week earlier in private conversation with Gode, she gesticulating wildly and saying the word ‘loyal’. He had also had heated words with his brother at the door just before the fateful dinner. Both Herluin and Blanche have secrets in their past.
We have suspicions from the start as to the identity of the murderer, but the unravelling of the evidence is interesting.
A good mediaeval whodunnit. Clues are drip-fed as the lawmen interview person after person. There are numerous characters in the town, so we’re on our toes as to who might have had a hand in the murder. I’m not familiar with Worcester dialect, but the language has local flavour. It captures well the mediaeval times, where people rarely venture beyond their own manor or village, rank is all-important, and information spreads slowly.
This review was originally written for Historical Novels Review.
They report to the lord sheriff William de Beauchamp, and Catchpoll rides to inform lord Bradecote.
At some point in the past, the Master’s roving eye had caught Runild, and the effect is beginning to show. Mistress Blanche had motive aplenty, but why would she have knowingly taken the poison, too? Godfrey had taken her bowl after she had thrown his against the wall, so it could be that she herself was the intended target.
Godfrey’s brother Herluin the Strengere arrives, expecting to inherit the business. He had been seen a week earlier in private conversation with Gode, she gesticulating wildly and saying the word ‘loyal’. He had also had heated words with his brother at the door just before the fateful dinner. Both Herluin and Blanche have secrets in their past.
We have suspicions from the start as to the identity of the murderer, but the unravelling of the evidence is interesting.
A good mediaeval whodunnit. Clues are drip-fed as the lawmen interview person after person. There are numerous characters in the town, so we’re on our toes as to who might have had a hand in the murder. I’m not familiar with Worcester dialect, but the language has local flavour. It captures well the mediaeval times, where people rarely venture beyond their own manor or village, rank is all-important, and information spreads slowly.
This review was originally written for Historical Novels Review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews