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The Sorrowful Mysteries of Brother Athelstan #21
The Hanging Tree
London. January, 1382. The Crown's treasury has been robbed. Tens of thousands of silver and gold coin mysteriously lifted from the most secure chamber in the kingdom; the five Clerks of the Dark who guarded the king's treasure brutally garrotted. Sir John Cranston and Brother Athelstan are appointed to investigate - but Athelstan has problems of his own. Clement the Key Master, who helped fashion the complex locks to the royal treasure chamber, has been found strangled in the nave of Athelstan's parish, St Erconwald's church.
At the same time, six of the city's hangmen have been savagely murdered, their bodies stripped. Pinned to each corpse is a scrawled note: "Vengeance! The Upright Men never forget!" The Guild of Hangmen who frequent the majestic tavern, The Hanging Tree, on the River Thames, have petitioned for Sir John and Brother Athelstan to find the culprit. But have the sleuthing pair taken on more than they can handle . . . and could the two investigations be connected?
At the same time, six of the city's hangmen have been savagely murdered, their bodies stripped. Pinned to each corpse is a scrawled note: "Vengeance! The Upright Men never forget!" The Guild of Hangmen who frequent the majestic tavern, The Hanging Tree, on the River Thames, have petitioned for Sir John and Brother Athelstan to find the culprit. But have the sleuthing pair taken on more than they can handle . . . and could the two investigations be connected?
223 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2022
47 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
Paul Doherty
220 books604 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
He has been published under several pseudonyms: P.C. Doherty, Celia L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas, Vanessa Alexander, Michael Clynes and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name.
Paul Doherty was born in Middlesbrough (North-Eastern England) in 1946. He had the usual education before studying at Durham for three years for the Catholic priesthood but decided not to proceed. He went to Liverpool University where he gained a First Class Honours Degree in History and won a state scholarship to Exeter College, Oxford, whilst there he met his wife Carla Lynn Corbitt. He continued his studies but decided that the academic world was not for him and became a secondary school teacher.
Paul worked in Ascot, Nottingham and Crawley West Sussex before being appointed as Headmaster to Trinity Catholic School in September 1981. Trinity is a large comprehensive [1700 on roll] which teaches the full ability range, ages 11-18. The school has been described as one of the leading comprehensives in the U.K. In April, 2000 H. M. Inspectorate describe it as an 'Outstanding School', and it was given Beacon status as a Centre of Excellence whilst, in the Chief Inspector’s Report to the Secretary of State for January 2001, Trinity Catholic High School was singled out for praise and received a public accolade.
Paul’s other incarnation is as a novelist. He finished his doctorate on the reign of Edward II of England and, in 1987, began to publish a series of outstanding historical mysteries set in the Middle Age, Classical, Greek, Ancient Egypt and elsewhere. These have been published in the United States by St. Martin’s Press of New York, Edhasa in Spain, and Eichborn, Heyne, Knaur and others in Germany. They have also been published in Holland, Belgium, France, Italy, Romania, Estonia, Czechoslovakia, Russia, Bulgaria, Portugal and China, as well as Argentina and Mexico.
He has been published under several pseudonyms (see the bibliography): C. L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name. He recently launched a very successful series based around the life of Alexander the Great, published by Constable & Robinson in the U.K., and Carroll and Graf in the U.S.A., whilst his novels set in Ancient Egypt have won critical acclaim. Paul has also written several non-fiction titles; A Life of Isabella the She-wolf of France, Wife of Edward II of England, as well as study of the possible murder of Tutankhamun, the boy Pharaoh of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, and a study on the true fate of Alexander the Great.
Paul and Carla live on the borders of London and Essex, not far from Epping Forest and six of their children have been through his own school. His wife Carla currently owns two horses and is training, for showing and dressage, a beautiful Arab filly named Polly.
Paul lectures for a number of organisations, particularly on historical mysteries, many of which later feature in his writings. A born speaker and trained lecturer Paul Doherty can hold and entertain audiences.
His one great ambition is to petition the Privy Council of England to open the Purbeck marble tomb of Edward II in Gloucester Cathedral. Paul believes the tomb does not house the body
He has been published under several pseudonyms: P.C. Doherty, Celia L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas, Vanessa Alexander, Michael Clynes and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name.
Paul Doherty was born in Middlesbrough (North-Eastern England) in 1946. He had the usual education before studying at Durham for three years for the Catholic priesthood but decided not to proceed. He went to Liverpool University where he gained a First Class Honours Degree in History and won a state scholarship to Exeter College, Oxford, whilst there he met his wife Carla Lynn Corbitt. He continued his studies but decided that the academic world was not for him and became a secondary school teacher.
Paul worked in Ascot, Nottingham and Crawley West Sussex before being appointed as Headmaster to Trinity Catholic School in September 1981. Trinity is a large comprehensive [1700 on roll] which teaches the full ability range, ages 11-18. The school has been described as one of the leading comprehensives in the U.K. In April, 2000 H. M. Inspectorate describe it as an 'Outstanding School', and it was given Beacon status as a Centre of Excellence whilst, in the Chief Inspector’s Report to the Secretary of State for January 2001, Trinity Catholic High School was singled out for praise and received a public accolade.
Paul’s other incarnation is as a novelist. He finished his doctorate on the reign of Edward II of England and, in 1987, began to publish a series of outstanding historical mysteries set in the Middle Age, Classical, Greek, Ancient Egypt and elsewhere. These have been published in the United States by St. Martin’s Press of New York, Edhasa in Spain, and Eichborn, Heyne, Knaur and others in Germany. They have also been published in Holland, Belgium, France, Italy, Romania, Estonia, Czechoslovakia, Russia, Bulgaria, Portugal and China, as well as Argentina and Mexico.
He has been published under several pseudonyms (see the bibliography): C. L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name. He recently launched a very successful series based around the life of Alexander the Great, published by Constable & Robinson in the U.K., and Carroll and Graf in the U.S.A., whilst his novels set in Ancient Egypt have won critical acclaim. Paul has also written several non-fiction titles; A Life of Isabella the She-wolf of France, Wife of Edward II of England, as well as study of the possible murder of Tutankhamun, the boy Pharaoh of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, and a study on the true fate of Alexander the Great.
Paul and Carla live on the borders of London and Essex, not far from Epping Forest and six of their children have been through his own school. His wife Carla currently owns two horses and is training, for showing and dressage, a beautiful Arab filly named Polly.
Paul lectures for a number of organisations, particularly on historical mysteries, many of which later feature in his writings. A born speaker and trained lecturer Paul Doherty can hold and entertain audiences.
His one great ambition is to petition the Privy Council of England to open the Purbeck marble tomb of Edward II in Gloucester Cathedral. Paul believes the tomb does not house the body
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 10, 2022
Among the many (many, many, many) historical mystery series I follow, Paul Doherty's The Sorrowful Mysteries of Brother Athelstan is a particular favorite. Set in the 14th Century and featuring former soldier Brother Athelstan and King's Coroner Sir John Cranston, this title does what too few historical mysteries do and focuses on ordinary lives, not just those of a wealthy, privileged few.
The Hanging Tree opens with a major theft—a hoard of newly minted goal and silver coins, intended to pay back debts of the British Crown (really of the Regent John of Gaunt who was standing in for a young Richard II) to Italian bankers. But that treasure disappears the night before it is to be moved to the Italian ship that will carry it to its destination.
So, yes, the novel opens with a crime affecting the wealthy few, but Doherty helps readers see the multiple levels on which this theft shapes or threatens lives of a great many individuals: the clerks responsible for guarding the treasure, members of (and those excluded from) the Hangmen's Guild, common criminals and criminal masterminds, street performers, public house owners and their patrons, and, of course, the humble parishioners of Athelstan's church, St. Erconwald's.
Deaths pile up, all seemingly related to the theft, though that connection is often tenuous. Watching Athelstan and Sir John work their way through this complicated puzzle is deeply engaging, and the many individuals with whom they cross paths are interesting characters in their own right. If you enjoy historical mysteries that reward in terms of both cast and plotting, you have much to look forward to in The Hanging Tree.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from Severn House via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
The Hanging Tree opens with a major theft—a hoard of newly minted goal and silver coins, intended to pay back debts of the British Crown (really of the Regent John of Gaunt who was standing in for a young Richard II) to Italian bankers. But that treasure disappears the night before it is to be moved to the Italian ship that will carry it to its destination.
So, yes, the novel opens with a crime affecting the wealthy few, but Doherty helps readers see the multiple levels on which this theft shapes or threatens lives of a great many individuals: the clerks responsible for guarding the treasure, members of (and those excluded from) the Hangmen's Guild, common criminals and criminal masterminds, street performers, public house owners and their patrons, and, of course, the humble parishioners of Athelstan's church, St. Erconwald's.
Deaths pile up, all seemingly related to the theft, though that connection is often tenuous. Watching Athelstan and Sir John work their way through this complicated puzzle is deeply engaging, and the many individuals with whom they cross paths are interesting characters in their own right. If you enjoy historical mysteries that reward in terms of both cast and plotting, you have much to look forward to in The Hanging Tree.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from Severn House via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
October 28, 2024
This small but amazing historical mystery is the 21st volume of the brilliant "Brother Athelstan" series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find a Historical Note, where certain historical details are very well explained, while at the end you'll notice an Author's Note where some more historical details are documented.
Storytelling is excellent, all characters are very believable and lifelike, while the atmosphere in medieval London is superbly pictured and described by the author.
The book starts off in January in the year AD1382, and with the Crown's treasure being stolen and five Clerks of the Night brutally murdered.
Other events are the murder of Clement the Key Master, who fashioned the complex locks to the treasure chamber, but who's found garrotted in Athelstan's parish church of St Erconwald's, while also six hangmen have been killed and stripped naked by some mysterious hands.
These cases will intertwine somehow, and Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston, Lord Coroner of London, are threatened in various manners with their lives by unknown hands during their investigations, but eventually they will reach their goal and will find the culprits of these criminal and lethal cases.
What is to follow is an intriguing and thrilling mystery, which is superbly structured towards excellent executed plots, in which the many threads involving these cases are untangled by Brother Athelstan, and the culprits will be revealed in a most spectacular and magnificent fashion.
Highly recommended, for this is another fabulous addition to this terrific series, and that's why I like to call this latest episode: "A Tremendous Lethal Mystery"!
At the beginning of the book you'll find a Historical Note, where certain historical details are very well explained, while at the end you'll notice an Author's Note where some more historical details are documented.
Storytelling is excellent, all characters are very believable and lifelike, while the atmosphere in medieval London is superbly pictured and described by the author.
The book starts off in January in the year AD1382, and with the Crown's treasure being stolen and five Clerks of the Night brutally murdered.
Other events are the murder of Clement the Key Master, who fashioned the complex locks to the treasure chamber, but who's found garrotted in Athelstan's parish church of St Erconwald's, while also six hangmen have been killed and stripped naked by some mysterious hands.
These cases will intertwine somehow, and Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston, Lord Coroner of London, are threatened in various manners with their lives by unknown hands during their investigations, but eventually they will reach their goal and will find the culprits of these criminal and lethal cases.
What is to follow is an intriguing and thrilling mystery, which is superbly structured towards excellent executed plots, in which the many threads involving these cases are untangled by Brother Athelstan, and the culprits will be revealed in a most spectacular and magnificent fashion.
Highly recommended, for this is another fabulous addition to this terrific series, and that's why I like to call this latest episode: "A Tremendous Lethal Mystery"!
June 9, 2022
Treachery and treason. 1382
If ever any one can take you into the bowels of a Bosch painting with his descriptions of the London that our Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston, the Lord High Coroner tread it’s Paul Doherty. In this latest medieval mystery we have the locked room theme (here a locked tower) complete with murder most foul, stolen kingdom treasure, garrotted hangman being found across the parishes, and a further garrotted body in Athelstan’s own St Erconwald church, and hints of the mysterious and deadly Italian smugglers and robbers, the Carbonari lurking in the deep shadows.
Both Aleston and Sir John come under threat. Tasked with solving the theft of the Crown’s Treasury by John of Gaunt and King Richard II, our pursuers of truth are lead down a fantastical path.
Oh my! The bees in the beehive are well and truly buzzing as unseen enemies stealthily slip through their midst. Another intriguing Athelstan and Cranston enigma.
A Severn House ARC via NetGalley
If ever any one can take you into the bowels of a Bosch painting with his descriptions of the London that our Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston, the Lord High Coroner tread it’s Paul Doherty. In this latest medieval mystery we have the locked room theme (here a locked tower) complete with murder most foul, stolen kingdom treasure, garrotted hangman being found across the parishes, and a further garrotted body in Athelstan’s own St Erconwald church, and hints of the mysterious and deadly Italian smugglers and robbers, the Carbonari lurking in the deep shadows.
Both Aleston and Sir John come under threat. Tasked with solving the theft of the Crown’s Treasury by John of Gaunt and King Richard II, our pursuers of truth are lead down a fantastical path.
Oh my! The bees in the beehive are well and truly buzzing as unseen enemies stealthily slip through their midst. Another intriguing Athelstan and Cranston enigma.
A Severn House ARC via NetGalley
July 28, 2022
3.5 stars - Another enjoyable outing with Brother Athelstan and London Coroner Sir Jack Cranston. I’ve read this entire long-running historical mystery series, and enjoy the characters and setting of London in the 1380s. Doherty really captures the filth, superstition and challenges of life at the time!
This outing opens with a locked room mass murder of clerks preparing a valuable shipment of Royal Mint coins for repayment of loans from Italian bankers. All have been garroted, and the entire shipment stolen; security precautions were extensive, and the only clue left is a taunting message of a dirty sack of charcoal ash, the calling card of the Carbonari, an Italian crime ring known for huge heists.
Cranston and Athelstan are called in by the Regent, John of Gaunt, and his Master of Secrets, Thibault. Our heroes have dealt with this corrupt, greedy, secretive pair many times. They know they can’t be trusted, but as Sir Jack points out to Athelstan, they have investigated and solved crimes for them many times. They are known to be in their favor, and if these two fall from power because of the treasury heist, all those attached to them will fall as well, including Jack. Athelstan is much favored by the young king, but Jack has no illusions about his own fate.
There is a secondary plot involving members of the Hangman’s Guild being murdered, their bodies being dumped, naked, on midden heaps throughout London. Athelstan brings it all together in the end, but the climactic ending of the Mint theft mystery felt oddly disjointed and separate. It was very exciting, taking place well out of London at an abandoned priory along the lonely Essex coast, and almost felt like the book should have ended there.
But then we are back in London, and Athelstan winds up the murders of the hangmen, along with the murder of the locksmith who just happened to design the locks in the Royal Mint Tower. His murder took place in the beginning of the book, inside St. Erconwald’s Church, Athelstan’s own church, while the troubled locksmith was waiting to talk to the brother. Athelstan obviously takes it personally, and he and Sir Jack mete out swift and terrible justice to the killers in the last chapter.
Again, it felt odd to have a climax on top of a climax, and Athelstan’s indictment made sense, and elicited a confession. It also felt right that Athelstan seemed more appalled at the more personal nature of the second crime, and the betrayal revealed - the heist was more to do with the avaricious royal court, international diplomacy and money-lending — not that that crime wasn’t wrong, but it was more driven by greed.
An interesting installment, with the Peasant’s Revolt lead by Wat Tyler firmly in the rear view mirror, and the intrigues heating up around the Royal court, I’ll be curious to see where Doherty takes Athelstan and Sir Jack next.
This outing opens with a locked room mass murder of clerks preparing a valuable shipment of Royal Mint coins for repayment of loans from Italian bankers. All have been garroted, and the entire shipment stolen; security precautions were extensive, and the only clue left is a taunting message of a dirty sack of charcoal ash, the calling card of the Carbonari, an Italian crime ring known for huge heists.
Cranston and Athelstan are called in by the Regent, John of Gaunt, and his Master of Secrets, Thibault. Our heroes have dealt with this corrupt, greedy, secretive pair many times. They know they can’t be trusted, but as Sir Jack points out to Athelstan, they have investigated and solved crimes for them many times. They are known to be in their favor, and if these two fall from power because of the treasury heist, all those attached to them will fall as well, including Jack. Athelstan is much favored by the young king, but Jack has no illusions about his own fate.
There is a secondary plot involving members of the Hangman’s Guild being murdered, their bodies being dumped, naked, on midden heaps throughout London. Athelstan brings it all together in the end, but the climactic ending of the Mint theft mystery felt oddly disjointed and separate. It was very exciting, taking place well out of London at an abandoned priory along the lonely Essex coast, and almost felt like the book should have ended there.
But then we are back in London, and Athelstan winds up the murders of the hangmen, along with the murder of the locksmith who just happened to design the locks in the Royal Mint Tower. His murder took place in the beginning of the book, inside St. Erconwald’s Church, Athelstan’s own church, while the troubled locksmith was waiting to talk to the brother. Athelstan obviously takes it personally, and he and Sir Jack mete out swift and terrible justice to the killers in the last chapter.
Again, it felt odd to have a climax on top of a climax, and Athelstan’s indictment made sense, and elicited a confession. It also felt right that Athelstan seemed more appalled at the more personal nature of the second crime, and the betrayal revealed - the heist was more to do with the avaricious royal court, international diplomacy and money-lending — not that that crime wasn’t wrong, but it was more driven by greed.
An interesting installment, with the Peasant’s Revolt lead by Wat Tyler firmly in the rear view mirror, and the intrigues heating up around the Royal court, I’ll be curious to see where Doherty takes Athelstan and Sir Jack next.
November 28, 2023
Just didn't feel rught
First of all there were a few mistakes made. Plus it just didn't have the same fell of Paul Doherty. It was just off, I liked the story. It was enjoyable reading about Brother Athelstan and Corner John Cranston again.
First of all there were a few mistakes made. Plus it just didn't have the same fell of Paul Doherty. It was just off, I liked the story. It was enjoyable reading about Brother Athelstan and Corner John Cranston again.
December 12, 2022
Many thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for this opportunity to review The Hanging Tree. All opinions and comments are my own.
We learn from a beginning Historical Note that England is in a prosperous phase. Trade is flourishing, law and order reigns. Times are good. Hardly the setting for murder, one would think. Ah, but Peter Doherty has other plans. The House of the Exchequer – home of the treasury of the king, “tens of thousands of pounds sterling in gold and silver” has been violated, all the Clerks of the Dark murdered, the coins gone. It is an impossible crime, but it has happened.
As our story begins Clement the Key-Maker comes to St. Erconwald’s Church to meet with our Brother Athelstan for his advice. Brother Athelstan is the Dominican friar (along with Sir John Cranston, the Coroner) at the heart of this series, of which this is the 21st book. Clement has links to this mystery; readers find this out. He wants to confess something, tell Athelstan all his secrets. But he is not going to get the chance.
Also, from the beginning we’re told who has stolen the treasure -- the “Carbonari” -- Italians. They say it’s rightfully theirs, anyway, as it was meant as a repayment to Italian bankers from the English treasury. But now the King will have to pay it back again, and well, what a hardship that will be. It will bring down men around the King, supporters of John of Gaunt and the like. These men aren’t very happy about this. Gaunt and Thibault, his henchman wants Athelstan and Cranston to get the money back, and do it quickly. Of course, the Carbonari won’t take kindly to this. And they intend to kill anyone who gets in their way. That presumably includes our Dominican and Sir John.
And we have a secondary side story of the murder of the hangmen of London. Six have already been slain, their bodies stripped and dumped. Athelstan and Sir John are meant to work on this case, too. To say this book is busy is an understatement.
Another thing to note -- these are not books to read if you’ve just eaten. Westminster is a moldering mess, for instance. Or, conversely, you might want to pay close attention to Doherty’s judicious use of description -- sight and smell -- if you’re eager to be on a diet. It might put you off food for a while. And the scenes of the swarms of people that roam the streets, from royal messengers to warlocks, demonstrate Doherty’s power to bring his story so vividly alive. Take it all in, there’s more to come.
In and out of The Hanging Tree, a “most comfortable tavern,” everybody goes, including the Clerks of the Light, the remaining clerks of the exchequer. The ex-daughter-in-law of Clement and her now-husband own the tavern, Clement’s long missing son having disappeared after his father’s disgrace. The clerks are still suspects, someone among them probably knowing something of this “locked room” mystery. It’s up to our dynamic duo to ferret out the truth.
And one mustn’t forget the most colorful parishioners of St. E’s. Those goodfellows (and good lady) flit in and out, giving their perspective, providing their usual, often obdurately, contributions.
Athelstan eventually asks the eternal question – who benefits? Readers will realize it applies to both stories, the treasure and the hangmen’s murders. You’ll be doing a lot of thinking in this one.
Athelstan demonstrates how the crime was committed. And confronts an Angel of Death. And there is retribution and “justice,” in a particularly medieval fashion. And as to the secondary case, for the hangmen, he calls others to account for those heinous crimes, with swift justice also demanded.
An author’s note further explains the fictional and non-fictional aspects of the story, saying that he believes it “captures the very essence of the city and the people who lived, worked, prayed and died there.” The Hanging Tree certainly does that, and fans of Brother Athelstan and Sir John should find it a fitting addition to the series.
We learn from a beginning Historical Note that England is in a prosperous phase. Trade is flourishing, law and order reigns. Times are good. Hardly the setting for murder, one would think. Ah, but Peter Doherty has other plans. The House of the Exchequer – home of the treasury of the king, “tens of thousands of pounds sterling in gold and silver” has been violated, all the Clerks of the Dark murdered, the coins gone. It is an impossible crime, but it has happened.
As our story begins Clement the Key-Maker comes to St. Erconwald’s Church to meet with our Brother Athelstan for his advice. Brother Athelstan is the Dominican friar (along with Sir John Cranston, the Coroner) at the heart of this series, of which this is the 21st book. Clement has links to this mystery; readers find this out. He wants to confess something, tell Athelstan all his secrets. But he is not going to get the chance.
Also, from the beginning we’re told who has stolen the treasure -- the “Carbonari” -- Italians. They say it’s rightfully theirs, anyway, as it was meant as a repayment to Italian bankers from the English treasury. But now the King will have to pay it back again, and well, what a hardship that will be. It will bring down men around the King, supporters of John of Gaunt and the like. These men aren’t very happy about this. Gaunt and Thibault, his henchman wants Athelstan and Cranston to get the money back, and do it quickly. Of course, the Carbonari won’t take kindly to this. And they intend to kill anyone who gets in their way. That presumably includes our Dominican and Sir John.
And we have a secondary side story of the murder of the hangmen of London. Six have already been slain, their bodies stripped and dumped. Athelstan and Sir John are meant to work on this case, too. To say this book is busy is an understatement.
Another thing to note -- these are not books to read if you’ve just eaten. Westminster is a moldering mess, for instance. Or, conversely, you might want to pay close attention to Doherty’s judicious use of description -- sight and smell -- if you’re eager to be on a diet. It might put you off food for a while. And the scenes of the swarms of people that roam the streets, from royal messengers to warlocks, demonstrate Doherty’s power to bring his story so vividly alive. Take it all in, there’s more to come.
In and out of The Hanging Tree, a “most comfortable tavern,” everybody goes, including the Clerks of the Light, the remaining clerks of the exchequer. The ex-daughter-in-law of Clement and her now-husband own the tavern, Clement’s long missing son having disappeared after his father’s disgrace. The clerks are still suspects, someone among them probably knowing something of this “locked room” mystery. It’s up to our dynamic duo to ferret out the truth.
And one mustn’t forget the most colorful parishioners of St. E’s. Those goodfellows (and good lady) flit in and out, giving their perspective, providing their usual, often obdurately, contributions.
Athelstan eventually asks the eternal question – who benefits? Readers will realize it applies to both stories, the treasure and the hangmen’s murders. You’ll be doing a lot of thinking in this one.
Athelstan demonstrates how the crime was committed. And confronts an Angel of Death. And there is retribution and “justice,” in a particularly medieval fashion. And as to the secondary case, for the hangmen, he calls others to account for those heinous crimes, with swift justice also demanded.
An author’s note further explains the fictional and non-fictional aspects of the story, saying that he believes it “captures the very essence of the city and the people who lived, worked, prayed and died there.” The Hanging Tree certainly does that, and fans of Brother Athelstan and Sir John should find it a fitting addition to the series.
May 6, 2022
A Challenging Locked Room Mystery
The novel opens with a large payment by the English Crown is in final preparation to be transferred to Italian banker’s ship the next morning. When the day clerks led by the Keeper in the Exchequer of Coin arrive, the only door to the tower where the treasure room is at the top of the tower was locked requiring unique keys for the special locks. Once inside, the announcing bell is rung three times, but there is no answer. They start up the narrow stairs loosening the trip cords on the way up. Upon unlocking the top door, they discover that all of the gold and silver gone, and all the clerks are sitting at their tables and garroted. They didn’t show any signs of defending themselves. They were all young and former men-at-arms and served in France during the wars. There is not any way that five battle-harden men could have been garroted with no signs of resistance. Brother Athelstan is assigned to assist the Lord High Coroner, John Cranston, to investigate this crime. The novel proceeds from this start.
The main storyline has major two threads. The first is the investigation which is narrated primarily by Brother Athelstan. The second is the perpetrators of the crime. There is minor thread concerning the murder of members of the Hangmen’s Guild including one that occurred in a tavern that the guild uses as its meeting place in front of other members. The complex and non-CSI-assisted investigation of locked room murders and theft of a considerable about of gold and silver quickly grabbed my interest and kept it until the end of the novel. This is a major criterion of mine for a high star rating.
The B-storyline is extensive shown in how Athelstan and Cranston act, talk and deal with each other and others. Much insight is obtained in the numerous discussions between each other as the investigation proceeds. I also enjoyed that Cranston’s enjoying every chance to eat well did show his inability for strenuous actions without huffing and puffing. Both of these characters were well developed in this novel and did not rely on previous novels that I have seen in several other long novel series.
As for the aspects that some readers may object, there are not any intimate scenes. Except for three of Cranston signature crude swear phrase, there are not any vulgar language and single-digit use of rude language. I rate these two aspects with a green flag. Violence is another matter. Even the descriptions of the faces of garrot victims and the damage of a handheld crossbow dart can be disturbing. I give this aspect of the novel a strong yellow flag, so let the reader be forewarned. This novel is the 21st novel in the series; I started reading this series with the 17th novel. I did not find any issues where I thought that I was missing a reference that appears to have occurred in an earlier novel. Lastly, for this section, the author uses many medieval terms that required that I quite often used my e-reader’s ubiquitous access to the dictionary, Wikipedia and Internet to determine their meanings. I do recommend that if you can read this on an internet capable e-reader.
What I liked the most in the novel also was the largest thorn in my reading. It was the authors use of medieval terms to give the novel a medieval feel. I enjoyed that, but it caused my reading to slow down to spend some time looking up the meanings of many words. I liked how the author implemented the locked room mystery, and how it was solved. While I am not a historian with knowledge of medieval London, the author’s depiction is quite stark but also fascinating. These aspects enhanced my reading enjoyment of this novel.
Having read the previous four novels in this series and one from another, I have placed this author in my May-Read, but this author is approaching a Must-Read level for me. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel. I’ve even purchased on Amazon the first novel in this series. If you like medieval England and a murder mystery, I recommend this book. I’m looking forward to reading more of this series and other novels by this author. I rate this novel with five stars.
I received a free e-book version of this novel through NetGalley from Severn House. My review is based only by my own reading experience of this book. I wish to thank Severn House for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
The novel opens with a large payment by the English Crown is in final preparation to be transferred to Italian banker’s ship the next morning. When the day clerks led by the Keeper in the Exchequer of Coin arrive, the only door to the tower where the treasure room is at the top of the tower was locked requiring unique keys for the special locks. Once inside, the announcing bell is rung three times, but there is no answer. They start up the narrow stairs loosening the trip cords on the way up. Upon unlocking the top door, they discover that all of the gold and silver gone, and all the clerks are sitting at their tables and garroted. They didn’t show any signs of defending themselves. They were all young and former men-at-arms and served in France during the wars. There is not any way that five battle-harden men could have been garroted with no signs of resistance. Brother Athelstan is assigned to assist the Lord High Coroner, John Cranston, to investigate this crime. The novel proceeds from this start.
The main storyline has major two threads. The first is the investigation which is narrated primarily by Brother Athelstan. The second is the perpetrators of the crime. There is minor thread concerning the murder of members of the Hangmen’s Guild including one that occurred in a tavern that the guild uses as its meeting place in front of other members. The complex and non-CSI-assisted investigation of locked room murders and theft of a considerable about of gold and silver quickly grabbed my interest and kept it until the end of the novel. This is a major criterion of mine for a high star rating.
The B-storyline is extensive shown in how Athelstan and Cranston act, talk and deal with each other and others. Much insight is obtained in the numerous discussions between each other as the investigation proceeds. I also enjoyed that Cranston’s enjoying every chance to eat well did show his inability for strenuous actions without huffing and puffing. Both of these characters were well developed in this novel and did not rely on previous novels that I have seen in several other long novel series.
As for the aspects that some readers may object, there are not any intimate scenes. Except for three of Cranston signature crude swear phrase, there are not any vulgar language and single-digit use of rude language. I rate these two aspects with a green flag. Violence is another matter. Even the descriptions of the faces of garrot victims and the damage of a handheld crossbow dart can be disturbing. I give this aspect of the novel a strong yellow flag, so let the reader be forewarned. This novel is the 21st novel in the series; I started reading this series with the 17th novel. I did not find any issues where I thought that I was missing a reference that appears to have occurred in an earlier novel. Lastly, for this section, the author uses many medieval terms that required that I quite often used my e-reader’s ubiquitous access to the dictionary, Wikipedia and Internet to determine their meanings. I do recommend that if you can read this on an internet capable e-reader.
What I liked the most in the novel also was the largest thorn in my reading. It was the authors use of medieval terms to give the novel a medieval feel. I enjoyed that, but it caused my reading to slow down to spend some time looking up the meanings of many words. I liked how the author implemented the locked room mystery, and how it was solved. While I am not a historian with knowledge of medieval London, the author’s depiction is quite stark but also fascinating. These aspects enhanced my reading enjoyment of this novel.
Having read the previous four novels in this series and one from another, I have placed this author in my May-Read, but this author is approaching a Must-Read level for me. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel. I’ve even purchased on Amazon the first novel in this series. If you like medieval England and a murder mystery, I recommend this book. I’m looking forward to reading more of this series and other novels by this author. I rate this novel with five stars.
I received a free e-book version of this novel through NetGalley from Severn House. My review is based only by my own reading experience of this book. I wish to thank Severn House for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
June 27, 2022
This is a wonderful return to the world of Brother Athelstan and Sir John Cranston - a locked room mystery with a difference .
Whilst drinking in the Hanging Tree Inn the pair are tasked with investigating the murder of the five Clerks of the Dark who have been guarding thousands of pounds gold and silver coins in the country's most secure chamber in the Tower of London .........killed on the eve before the monies were to handed over to pay back debts owed to Italian Bankers .
John of Gaunt and his henchman , Thibault , are under pressure to come up with the monies owed again unless Sir John and Athelstan can solve the "locked room " murders and recover to gold and silver coins .
When the body of the master locksmith who designed the keys to the tower locks is found strangled in Athelstan's own church , where he had been sheltering with promises of information that would help solve the case ............ it brings the case closer to home .
More murdered bodies ..........those of the city's hangmen , are found with notes pinned to their bodies referencing 'The Upright Men' ( the power behind the Peasants Revolt)- are they connected to the theft at the Tower ?
With all the murders beginning to point to a connection to the Hanging Tree Inn they have their work cut out for them to solve the various threads .
Another excellent engaging medieval murder , mystery from an Author who can do no wrong in my opinion - I look forward to reading more in the same vein in the future
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Whilst drinking in the Hanging Tree Inn the pair are tasked with investigating the murder of the five Clerks of the Dark who have been guarding thousands of pounds gold and silver coins in the country's most secure chamber in the Tower of London .........killed on the eve before the monies were to handed over to pay back debts owed to Italian Bankers .
John of Gaunt and his henchman , Thibault , are under pressure to come up with the monies owed again unless Sir John and Athelstan can solve the "locked room " murders and recover to gold and silver coins .
When the body of the master locksmith who designed the keys to the tower locks is found strangled in Athelstan's own church , where he had been sheltering with promises of information that would help solve the case ............ it brings the case closer to home .
More murdered bodies ..........those of the city's hangmen , are found with notes pinned to their bodies referencing 'The Upright Men' ( the power behind the Peasants Revolt)- are they connected to the theft at the Tower ?
With all the murders beginning to point to a connection to the Hanging Tree Inn they have their work cut out for them to solve the various threads .
Another excellent engaging medieval murder , mystery from an Author who can do no wrong in my opinion - I look forward to reading more in the same vein in the future
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
January 11, 2023
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Hanging Tree is the 21st Brother Athelstan medieval mystery by Paul Doherty from Severn House. Released 7th June 2022, it's 224 pages and is available in hardcover 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. There are a number of historical mystery series set in the medieval period and the middle ages which have a permanent place on my "to be read" lists, and this one is in the top 5.
Brother Althelstan is called in to investigate yet another perplexing 'locked room' mystery, this time in an inaccessible tower. Added into the mix are hangmen being murdered and dumped, stolen royal treasure, and skullduggery and political machinations, and Brother Athelstan and his investigative colleague, coroner Sir John Cranston, have more than enough to deal with.
Having read many of Mr. Doherty's other books, I was expecting a well crafted mystery. Although it had been some years since I had read any of the other books in this series, it works perfectly well as a standalone. The background for the characters is presented in a way that manages to convey all the necessary backstory without spoon-feeding readers already familiar with the setting and characters.
The plotting and dialogue are very well crafted and the entire book is beautifully researched and historically correct (at least to my layman's knowledge of the period). I felt that the dialogue succeeded quite well in walking the fine line between being comprehensible to a modern audience and still maintaining a period flavor.
There are many subplots and subtly interwoven stories here and I wondered how Doherty would manage to tie them together, but he does manage (and satisfyingly). For readers of a very sensitive nature, there are some quite unflinching descriptions of the less savory realities of living in a crowded, filthy, disease ridden area of the period. Not appetizing and realistically rendered in the book. The author has a definite talent for descriptive prose.
Four and a half stars. This is an invariably entertaining and engaging series and this is a worthy addition.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Hanging Tree is the 21st Brother Athelstan medieval mystery by Paul Doherty from Severn House. Released 7th June 2022, it's 224 pages and is available in hardcover 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. There are a number of historical mystery series set in the medieval period and the middle ages which have a permanent place on my "to be read" lists, and this one is in the top 5.
Brother Althelstan is called in to investigate yet another perplexing 'locked room' mystery, this time in an inaccessible tower. Added into the mix are hangmen being murdered and dumped, stolen royal treasure, and skullduggery and political machinations, and Brother Athelstan and his investigative colleague, coroner Sir John Cranston, have more than enough to deal with.
Having read many of Mr. Doherty's other books, I was expecting a well crafted mystery. Although it had been some years since I had read any of the other books in this series, it works perfectly well as a standalone. The background for the characters is presented in a way that manages to convey all the necessary backstory without spoon-feeding readers already familiar with the setting and characters.
The plotting and dialogue are very well crafted and the entire book is beautifully researched and historically correct (at least to my layman's knowledge of the period). I felt that the dialogue succeeded quite well in walking the fine line between being comprehensible to a modern audience and still maintaining a period flavor.
There are many subplots and subtly interwoven stories here and I wondered how Doherty would manage to tie them together, but he does manage (and satisfyingly). For readers of a very sensitive nature, there are some quite unflinching descriptions of the less savory realities of living in a crowded, filthy, disease ridden area of the period. Not appetizing and realistically rendered in the book. The author has a definite talent for descriptive prose.
Four and a half stars. This is an invariably entertaining and engaging series and this is a worthy addition.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
March 29, 2022
I would like to thank Netgalley and Severn House Publishers for an advance copy of The Hanging Tree, the twenty first novel to feature Brother Athelstan, set in London in 1382.
Sir John Cranston, the King’s Crowner, and his secretary, Brother Athelstan have been asked to investigate a daring theft from the Tower of London. Coins worth tens of thousands are missing and five men in charge of sorting it have all been garrotted. To make matters worse Clement, the man who designed the locks to the tower, is found murdered in Athelstan’s church. And then there’s the murder of six hangmen that the establishment wants investigated.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Hanging Tree which has likeable characters and a good mystery to solve. There are surprises about some of the detail and the people involved, but overall this is not a whodunnit, more of a howdunnit. For a start, the heist (no better word for it) is quickly attributed to the Carbonari, a band of sophisticated Italian thieves, so the investigation concentrates on how they did it and who is a member. The murder of the hangmen is slightly different. There is no identification of the perpetrator, but it’s not hard to guess, so again it’s how and why. Where and how Clement fits in is another puzzle, but he’s not the last victim as this novel has an extremely high body count.
The puzzle of how and, in some cases, why the crimes were committed is one reason to turn the pages but not the only one. Mediaeval London comes alive in the writing and it’s not pretty with danger at every corner and enough smells to turn the stomach. The juxtaposition of casual violence and brutality with religious observance is striking. Pray at the right times and carry on regardless as God is on your side seems to be the ethos. I like that the author tells it as it probably was. Then there’s the politics. The author includes real life characters in all their venality and hunger for power at any cost. It is well done and reinforces the adage of not sticking one’s head above the parapet.
The best of the novel lies in the friendship between Sir John and Brother Athelstan. It is warm and sometimes humorous, fostered by the familiarity of long term collaboration. Athelstan is the brains, Sir John the brawn in the form of his legal authority. I like spending time with them.
The Hanging Tree is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Sir John Cranston, the King’s Crowner, and his secretary, Brother Athelstan have been asked to investigate a daring theft from the Tower of London. Coins worth tens of thousands are missing and five men in charge of sorting it have all been garrotted. To make matters worse Clement, the man who designed the locks to the tower, is found murdered in Athelstan’s church. And then there’s the murder of six hangmen that the establishment wants investigated.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Hanging Tree which has likeable characters and a good mystery to solve. There are surprises about some of the detail and the people involved, but overall this is not a whodunnit, more of a howdunnit. For a start, the heist (no better word for it) is quickly attributed to the Carbonari, a band of sophisticated Italian thieves, so the investigation concentrates on how they did it and who is a member. The murder of the hangmen is slightly different. There is no identification of the perpetrator, but it’s not hard to guess, so again it’s how and why. Where and how Clement fits in is another puzzle, but he’s not the last victim as this novel has an extremely high body count.
The puzzle of how and, in some cases, why the crimes were committed is one reason to turn the pages but not the only one. Mediaeval London comes alive in the writing and it’s not pretty with danger at every corner and enough smells to turn the stomach. The juxtaposition of casual violence and brutality with religious observance is striking. Pray at the right times and carry on regardless as God is on your side seems to be the ethos. I like that the author tells it as it probably was. Then there’s the politics. The author includes real life characters in all their venality and hunger for power at any cost. It is well done and reinforces the adage of not sticking one’s head above the parapet.
The best of the novel lies in the friendship between Sir John and Brother Athelstan. It is warm and sometimes humorous, fostered by the familiarity of long term collaboration. Athelstan is the brains, Sir John the brawn in the form of his legal authority. I like spending time with them.
The Hanging Tree is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
March 6, 2022
5 stars
John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, was the regent for his young nephew King Richard II in 1382 England. Working for him was his coroner Sir John Cranston and his friend and cohort Brother Athelstan.
The Crown’s treasury has been robbed. The man who designed the fail safe locks has been murdered. He was supposed to destroy his drawings and plans, but did not. Sir John and Brother Athelstan have been asked to investigate. Also six hangmen have been murdered. The pair have been asked to investigate this as well. Are all of these crimes connected?
Sir John and Brother Athelstan come across the “Upright Men” written on paper pinned to the deceased hangmen. Who are they? What is their grievance?
The pair interviewed countless witnesses and those involved in some way with Flambard’s Tower, where the treasury was kept. They want very detailed information about everyone's movements.
Sir John and Brother Athelstan ponder how the thieves could abscond with the treasury. And who they could be. They request that all ships be searched before leaving port, and all carts and such conveyances be inspected.
When they eventually find the thieves, it is as expected. (I suspected them as well.) The Master of Secrets, Thibault, forces a confrontation with startling results.
They go on to discover the secrets held within The Hanging Tree tavern. They are many and buried deep. A conspiracy is uncovered.
This book is written very skillfully. The plotting is linear and easy to follow. Medieval London is described very well: the sights, the sounds and the inhabitants. It was a very rough time in which to live. The reader’s sensibilities are not spared. I could not live there myself.
I want to thank NetGalley and Severn House for forwarding to me a copy of this most remarkable book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed here are solely my own.
John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, was the regent for his young nephew King Richard II in 1382 England. Working for him was his coroner Sir John Cranston and his friend and cohort Brother Athelstan.
The Crown’s treasury has been robbed. The man who designed the fail safe locks has been murdered. He was supposed to destroy his drawings and plans, but did not. Sir John and Brother Athelstan have been asked to investigate. Also six hangmen have been murdered. The pair have been asked to investigate this as well. Are all of these crimes connected?
Sir John and Brother Athelstan come across the “Upright Men” written on paper pinned to the deceased hangmen. Who are they? What is their grievance?
The pair interviewed countless witnesses and those involved in some way with Flambard’s Tower, where the treasury was kept. They want very detailed information about everyone's movements.
Sir John and Brother Athelstan ponder how the thieves could abscond with the treasury. And who they could be. They request that all ships be searched before leaving port, and all carts and such conveyances be inspected.
When they eventually find the thieves, it is as expected. (I suspected them as well.) The Master of Secrets, Thibault, forces a confrontation with startling results.
They go on to discover the secrets held within The Hanging Tree tavern. They are many and buried deep. A conspiracy is uncovered.
This book is written very skillfully. The plotting is linear and easy to follow. Medieval London is described very well: the sights, the sounds and the inhabitants. It was a very rough time in which to live. The reader’s sensibilities are not spared. I could not live there myself.
I want to thank NetGalley and Severn House for forwarding to me a copy of this most remarkable book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed here are solely my own.
March 26, 2022
Yet another great Brother Athelstan mystery: how many ways are there to murder folk and do so within a locked room or, in this case, a double doored tower? Paul Doherty creates this problem so many times, yet each solution is unique: I am amazed and just hope Doherty never takes up the hobby of killing people as he has a very ingenious mind!
This time the murders, or at least some of those at the start of the story, are part of a well planned robbery of minted gold and silver that has been gathered in a secured room and the top of a cleverly designed tower, full of security devices. There is also a series of murders whose victims are London Hangmen. A master locksmith dies in Athelstan's own St Erconwald's church. Are the three connected?
The author displays his usual knowledge of the 14thC, in this case the indebtedness of the English crown to the Lombardy Bankers.
I must pat myself on the back: I didn't guess the main killer, though I did guess how the money was got out of the tower as well as suspecting how the mailed clerks in the tower were able to be murdered. I also suspected the main motive for the hangmen's murders. It is not often I can do this with a Paul Doherty book!
I must admit I would have liked to have had more content on St Erconwald's strange, and at times rather cunning and clever parishioners. At least this time none of them were killed off.
On a personal touch I smiled at the mention of St Osyth's Priory as, as a young boy, I had spent a holiday in a caravan at the local camping ground and had visited the Priory.
This time the murders, or at least some of those at the start of the story, are part of a well planned robbery of minted gold and silver that has been gathered in a secured room and the top of a cleverly designed tower, full of security devices. There is also a series of murders whose victims are London Hangmen. A master locksmith dies in Athelstan's own St Erconwald's church. Are the three connected?
The author displays his usual knowledge of the 14thC, in this case the indebtedness of the English crown to the Lombardy Bankers.
I must pat myself on the back: I didn't guess the main killer, though I did guess how the money was got out of the tower as well as suspecting how the mailed clerks in the tower were able to be murdered. I also suspected the main motive for the hangmen's murders. It is not often I can do this with a Paul Doherty book!
I must admit I would have liked to have had more content on St Erconwald's strange, and at times rather cunning and clever parishioners. At least this time none of them were killed off.
On a personal touch I smiled at the mention of St Osyth's Priory as, as a young boy, I had spent a holiday in a caravan at the local camping ground and had visited the Priory.
May 2, 2022
You don't read read Doherty!
You simply devour his beautiful and luscious prose and let yourself be swept away by his terrific storytelling!
"The hanging tree" is the latest Brother Athelstan Mystery, a
masterfully & superbly choreographed criminal investigation set at the beginning of Richard II's reign, a dark and very violent tale of murder and greed centered around the political and financial shenanigans of the King's powerful uncle, John of Gaunt.
A magnificent fictional journey into the world of the Italian bankers (the Lombards) present in London at the end of the 14th century and their shady relations with the corruption so inherent at the time around the wobbly throne of the young monarch.
But this fabulous novel is also an unflinching and unforgettable look at the harshness of English social life and customs through the nebulous brotherhood of royal executioners and hangmen at the beginning of one of the most tumultuous periods in English history.
A captivating read full of twists and turns, sparkling historical details and a big cast of exquisitely drawned characters, this marvellous novel will definitely engulf all your senses and offer you a dazzling reading experience!
This is historical fiction at its best and it deserves to be enjoyed without any moderation whatsoever!
You simply devour his beautiful and luscious prose and let yourself be swept away by his terrific storytelling!
"The hanging tree" is the latest Brother Athelstan Mystery, a
masterfully & superbly choreographed criminal investigation set at the beginning of Richard II's reign, a dark and very violent tale of murder and greed centered around the political and financial shenanigans of the King's powerful uncle, John of Gaunt.
A magnificent fictional journey into the world of the Italian bankers (the Lombards) present in London at the end of the 14th century and their shady relations with the corruption so inherent at the time around the wobbly throne of the young monarch.
But this fabulous novel is also an unflinching and unforgettable look at the harshness of English social life and customs through the nebulous brotherhood of royal executioners and hangmen at the beginning of one of the most tumultuous periods in English history.
A captivating read full of twists and turns, sparkling historical details and a big cast of exquisitely drawned characters, this marvellous novel will definitely engulf all your senses and offer you a dazzling reading experience!
This is historical fiction at its best and it deserves to be enjoyed without any moderation whatsoever!
April 21, 2022
My favorite series so I did a little dance when I received this ARC. Thank you Netgalley and Severn House Publishers for the ARC.
Paul Doherty excels in developing atmosphere and character. I care deeply about the people in this series. Doherty has once again given the reader a snapshot of medieval London, and it's ugly, violent, dirty. Don't expect Camelot in his books; rather you get beautifully researched novels.
In this latest of the Brother Athelstan series, the monk and parish priest of St. Erconwald's, along with London Coroner John Cranston investigate the robbery of a vast sum of money that was kept in a highly secure tower and was intended to pay back debts to Italian bankers. The theft touches St. Erconwald's when the key master who designed the tower's locks is murdered while sheltering in the church. There also is a side plot of a killer murdering London hangmen.
This series is best read in order. I highly recommend it.
Paul Doherty excels in developing atmosphere and character. I care deeply about the people in this series. Doherty has once again given the reader a snapshot of medieval London, and it's ugly, violent, dirty. Don't expect Camelot in his books; rather you get beautifully researched novels.
In this latest of the Brother Athelstan series, the monk and parish priest of St. Erconwald's, along with London Coroner John Cranston investigate the robbery of a vast sum of money that was kept in a highly secure tower and was intended to pay back debts to Italian bankers. The theft touches St. Erconwald's when the key master who designed the tower's locks is murdered while sheltering in the church. There also is a side plot of a killer murdering London hangmen.
This series is best read in order. I highly recommend it.
August 9, 2022
The Royal Treasury has been robbed of a huge amount of treasure. This money was due to be the repayment of loans from the Italian Bardi family and therefore the Royal Exchequer has huge issues. The coroner of London is called in to investigate with his righthand man Brother Athelstan. Meanwhile the maker of the keys to the treasury has been murdered in Athelstan's church and all signs indicate that the two are linked and involved a shadowy sets of mercenaries called the Carboni.
I haven't read any of the series before but found it really easy to pick up as there was little expectation of crucial links to previous novels. This is obviously an author comfortable with his characters and setting in 14th century London as there is little extraneous description but there is clearly excellent research. A suitable complex plot and a political ending make this a satisfying read.
I haven't read any of the series before but found it really easy to pick up as there was little expectation of crucial links to previous novels. This is obviously an author comfortable with his characters and setting in 14th century London as there is little extraneous description but there is clearly excellent research. A suitable complex plot and a political ending make this a satisfying read.
November 13, 2024
As usual, an excellent story with the almost de rigueur locked-room mystery. Athelstan and Sir John have to investigate the murders of 5 Chancery clerks who were murdered on the evening before a huge sum of gold and silver was due to be delivered to the Italian moneylenders as payment for England’s debts. The room was locked and the tower where the bodies were found had a number of fail-safe checks in place to ensure what happened could never happen. So what happened, then? Additionally, a number of public hangmen have been found stabbed and left, naked, on dung heaps around the city, why? Athelstan enlists the help of the Hangman of Rochester to ferret out what’s going on at the pub that is the official hang-out for the Guild of Hangmen. As usual, Doherty’s attention to detail, and his love of the period shine through.
Read
March 18, 2022"We are, as ever, about to enter the meadows of murder. We are going to hunt the most subtle of killers, a true son of Cain, even though God has yet to brand him as such."
This is an astounding murder mystery set in Medieval London. A medium paced, plot led novel - part of a series though I've yet to read the others (I actually discovered I have the first on my tbr pile!) I assume that the character building for our main investigators, Sir John and Brother Athelstan has likely already been established in previous books, but this was easy enough to jump in at without prior knowledge of it's prequels.
This kept me guessing to the very end, the cleverness properly blew my mind. I would highly recommend!
This is an astounding murder mystery set in Medieval London. A medium paced, plot led novel - part of a series though I've yet to read the others (I actually discovered I have the first on my tbr pile!) I assume that the character building for our main investigators, Sir John and Brother Athelstan has likely already been established in previous books, but this was easy enough to jump in at without prior knowledge of it's prequels.
This kept me guessing to the very end, the cleverness properly blew my mind. I would highly recommend!
October 25, 2023
I recently read another of this author's books (Realm of Darkness), and I have to say this one was more enjoyable. I found the actual character of Athelstan to be only ok (he felt like a Cadfael stand-in, not bad, but not fascinating either), but the plot was really good. I judged myself very harshly for not guessing the truth earlier since the clues were placed early on, but they were placed subtly enough that they didn't register (when I re-read one of the earlier chapters to check, it was a self-slap moment for not realising!).
I can't speak for the series as a whole (I just saw this in my library and decided to give it a go), but The Hanging Tree was a good read; good mystery, good historical setting, and a satisfying ending. Can reccomend.
I can't speak for the series as a whole (I just saw this in my library and decided to give it a go), but The Hanging Tree was a good read; good mystery, good historical setting, and a satisfying ending. Can reccomend.
June 4, 2025
#2` in the Brother Athelsyan mystery series.
London. January, 1382. The Crown's treasury has been robbed. Tens of thousands of silver and gold coin mysteriously lifted from the most secure chamber in the kingdom; the five Clerks of the Dark who guarded the king's treasure brutally garrotted. Sir John Cranston and Brother Athelstan are appointed to investigate - but Athelstan has problems of his own. Clement the Key Master, who helped fashion the complex locks to the royal treasure chamber, has been found strangled in the nave of Athelstan's parish, St Erconwald's church.
London. January, 1382. The Crown's treasury has been robbed. Tens of thousands of silver and gold coin mysteriously lifted from the most secure chamber in the kingdom; the five Clerks of the Dark who guarded the king's treasure brutally garrotted. Sir John Cranston and Brother Athelstan are appointed to investigate - but Athelstan has problems of his own. Clement the Key Master, who helped fashion the complex locks to the royal treasure chamber, has been found strangled in the nave of Athelstan's parish, St Erconwald's church.
April 16, 2022
Another puzzling mystery (or two) for Sir John Cranston and Brother Athelstan to solve. A fortune in Gold and Silver has been stolen from Westminster. The coins stored in a locked tower, guarded by 5 mailed clerks. How could the thieves murder these men and steal the monies. On top of that someone is murdering the Hangmen of London. The self-styled Regent, John of Gaunt, and his henchman Thibault call on Sir John and Brother Athelstan to solve both crimes.
June 3, 2022
The Hanging Tree is the twenty first book to feature Brother Althelstan, but my first by this author. Although the plot is self- contained, as a new reader to the series I felt very much at a disadvantage. I can only presume that the character development of Althelstan and the supporting cast is to be found in the previous novels in the series, for there is none to be found here. Given that he is the main protagonist, we spend remarkably little time "inside the head" of Athelstan so I have no greater idea now of who he is as a character than I did on page one. As a fan of character-rich writing, I found this complaint difficult to get past. The pacing of the book also felt rather strange to me - really slow... and then the mystery is abruptly solved with seemingly little build up.
Fans of the series, I'm sure, will look forward to this book in anticipation, but anyone new to the author's work should perhaps start with one of his earlier books.
Thank you to NetGalley and Severn House Publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Fans of the series, I'm sure, will look forward to this book in anticipation, but anyone new to the author's work should perhaps start with one of his earlier books.
Thank you to NetGalley and Severn House Publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2022
A great read
Medieval murder mysteries should capture the wrestling and antagonism between wit and will, of justice and injustice, of right and wrong, of good and evil in its most basic form. (Without the intervention of over-complicated and highly improbable scientific method). This is probably the reason for the popularity. This author managed to reach back into a distant history, to reveal a more honest reality than the one that we tend to live in. Well done P.D.
Medieval murder mysteries should capture the wrestling and antagonism between wit and will, of justice and injustice, of right and wrong, of good and evil in its most basic form. (Without the intervention of over-complicated and highly improbable scientific method). This is probably the reason for the popularity. This author managed to reach back into a distant history, to reveal a more honest reality than the one that we tend to live in. Well done P.D.
June 18, 2024
We saw a much more confident Brother Athelstan in this book. he has grown from a quiet shy priest who solved crimes to a confident crime solver, who isn't afraid to take on those who make murder their task.
Still ably assisted by Sir John, Athelstan now leads the way using Sir John's not inconsiderable power.
Pleasingly none of Athelstan's lively and colourful parishioners met their end, though it was a little doubtful there for a bit.
A great continuation of this long lasting series.
Still ably assisted by Sir John, Athelstan now leads the way using Sir John's not inconsiderable power.
Pleasingly none of Athelstan's lively and colourful parishioners met their end, though it was a little doubtful there for a bit.
A great continuation of this long lasting series.
July 15, 2025
The Hanging Tree
Another great mystery for Prior Athelstan to solve. Five men, clerks of the crown are found murdered in a locked tower room. A fortune in silver and gold stolen. There is another mystery to solve. Someone is Killing the hangmen of London. Who are the Carbonari and what do they want? Athelstan and Cranston escape from death. I enjoyed the story and my solution was wrong.
Another great mystery for Prior Athelstan to solve. Five men, clerks of the crown are found murdered in a locked tower room. A fortune in silver and gold stolen. There is another mystery to solve. Someone is Killing the hangmen of London. Who are the Carbonari and what do they want? Athelstan and Cranston escape from death. I enjoyed the story and my solution was wrong.
March 24, 2022
This is a great plot driven murder mystery that is not the most fast paced however it does keep you interested from start to finish. I did not find it to be predictable as some murder mysteries can be so that was refreshing!
(Please note this is a part of a series so the character development has been done throughout previous books)
I would definitely recommend :)
(Please note this is a part of a series so the character development has been done throughout previous books)
I would definitely recommend :)
March 29, 2022
Murder and theft rears it's ugly head in medieval London again in this latest instalment of the long-running popular series featuring two of my favourite sleuths, Coroner John Cranston and cleric Brother Athelstan. Gripping from the first page to the very last, this roller-coaster of a ride will climax to a satisfying conclusion or so you think!
May 11, 2022
I am a huge lover of historical fiction but this read was hard to get through. It's a real shame because I usually enjoy this author on the whole. It felt like it was trying too hard and tried to pack too much in.
I loved the character development but the complexity of the writing was a little off putting.
3 stars
I loved the character development but the complexity of the writing was a little off putting.
3 stars
May 30, 2022
I’ve enjoyed Paul’s books for years and always look forward to a new Brother Athelstan book being released, this one being no different. A fantastic locked in murder mystery, really nicely paced (I felt his last one lagged a bit at times), lots of atmosphere. I very happily read this in one very pleasant sitting, only stopping for some lunch. Long may the author continue this series.
June 5, 2022
I've been reading Brother Athelstan mysteries for ages and I haven't found any disappointing yet.
This is another atmospheric, gripping and solid mystery that kept me hooked and guessing.
The historical details and the characters are excellent as usual, Mr Doherty is a master storyteller.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
This is another atmospheric, gripping and solid mystery that kept me hooked and guessing.
The historical details and the characters are excellent as usual, Mr Doherty is a master storyteller.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
May 3, 2022
Excellent Read
Paul Doherty does it again bringing to life the middle ages detective Brother Athelstan and his side kick the inevitable Coroner Cranston. They join forces to right the wrongs of the often most puzzling murders. Great read!
Paul Doherty does it again bringing to life the middle ages detective Brother Athelstan and his side kick the inevitable Coroner Cranston. They join forces to right the wrongs of the often most puzzling murders. Great read!
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