LecClier K. (SierraK) -
Helpful Score: 7
I really enjoyed this medieval mystery. It's the first in a new series featuring Templar Knight Bascot de Marins. Bascot is recovering from wounds suffered in several years of Saracen captivity during the Crusades. He is sent to assist at a Templar monastery near Lincoln, England, where he is asked by the castellan to look into the deaths of four people who are found murdered at the local alehouse.
This story had great characters. I relly enjoyed the historical setting as well and will definitely be reading the other books in this series.
This story had great characters. I relly enjoyed the historical setting as well and will definitely be reading the other books in this series.
Jeanne G. (IlliniAlum83) -
Helpful Score: 5
I'd been reading a lot of historical fiction after a long period of only mysteries and thrillers, but had studied the Templars for a class so was fascinated to discover 2 series of mysteries from different authors that combined all these themes/genres. This was the first I've read, but will search out more by her and her compatriot, Michael Jenks. Loved the blending of my faves.
Excellent Templar Knight mystery featuring Templar Bascot du Marins, who is currently staying under the protection of Nicolaa de da Haye, the castellan of the castle and wife of the sheriff. Victims of murder are found in an alehouse. Who are they? And how did they get there? One of the victims is the husband of the alewife. He has not been killed in the same manner as the others.
Heather J. (LadyCrymsyn) reviewed The Alehouse Murders (Templar Knight, Bk 1) on + 28 more book reviews
This was an interesting historical mystery, and did keep my guessing for quite a while as to the identity of the murderer. However, by setting the events during a fair, we are introduced to a rather large cast of characters, and I occasionally had difficulty remembering who was whom. Still, once I became more used to the writing style and some of the language (the setting is the year 1200, and the names of items and places reflects this), I found this to be a good read.
I am into another medieval mystery series. My library friend keeps recommending and I keep reading her recommendations. This story takes place in the 1200's with the main character being a Knight Templar. I have read some about the Templar's, but this one is on a more personal level and I like learning at that level. It seems more real. It is interesting to me that the people of the time had the same concerns as we do. However, they didn't have the modern conveniences to aid them in their journey. I like Bascot and the characters that will support him in this series. This is the first book so I have just now been introduced to them. I am looking forward to knowing them better and seeing how Bascot deals with the decisions he must make about the Templar Order. Recommend
Has several interesting twists and a surprise ending. Good introduction to a new character along the lines of Brother Cadfael.
I really liked this book; it was a good mystery and gave a fairly accurate portrayal of medieval times.
R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed The Alehouse Murders (Templar Knight, Bk 1) on + 1450 more book reviews
This is medieval murder mystery set in Lincoln, England during the summer of the year 1200. A Templar Knight, Bascot de Marins, is questioning his faith while trying to decide tbo return to the Templers or leave it. Assigned to the sheriff of Lincoln, he has returned to England after seven years in prison where he lost an eye and suffered an injured ankle during torture by the Sarceans. With him, he brought an energetic young mute he found on the docks. While Gianni cannot speak his bright personality makes him appreciated by all he meets. Bascot has found himself treating the youngster as he would a son.
Many of the characters are so well developed that the reader almost underestimates Bascot because of his quiet and unassuming manner. That is how Bascot prefers it. He has been asked by Lady Nicolaa to investigate the murders of three individuals found apparently stabbed in an alehouse as a local festival is to begin. With the three is the owner of the establishment with his head bashed in.
Bascot finds tension mounting among the various suspects as he searches for clues to lead him to the killer. There is much distrust of the Jewish community because some are quick to believe that someone of that faith may be involved. As the investigation builds a local priest is killed by a knife thrust to his chest. Is the same killer responsible?
There are few clues for the reader to untangle as Bascot works his way through the various suspects and potential motives. I missed some obvious indications as the story unfolded. Thus the unveiling of the killer was a surprise. That individual showed no remorse about the killings even seeming to brag about the results.
I totally enjoyed this mystery, giving it five stars instead of the usual four I assign to most mystery readings. The author did so well with characterization, the plot and writing style that I intend to look for more of her work. It's a good, good read.
Many of the characters are so well developed that the reader almost underestimates Bascot because of his quiet and unassuming manner. That is how Bascot prefers it. He has been asked by Lady Nicolaa to investigate the murders of three individuals found apparently stabbed in an alehouse as a local festival is to begin. With the three is the owner of the establishment with his head bashed in.
Bascot finds tension mounting among the various suspects as he searches for clues to lead him to the killer. There is much distrust of the Jewish community because some are quick to believe that someone of that faith may be involved. As the investigation builds a local priest is killed by a knife thrust to his chest. Is the same killer responsible?
There are few clues for the reader to untangle as Bascot works his way through the various suspects and potential motives. I missed some obvious indications as the story unfolded. Thus the unveiling of the killer was a surprise. That individual showed no remorse about the killings even seeming to brag about the results.
I totally enjoyed this mystery, giving it five stars instead of the usual four I assign to most mystery readings. The author did so well with characterization, the plot and writing style that I intend to look for more of her work. It's a good, good read.
Patricia L. (LadyMicha) reviewed The Alehouse Murders (Templar Knight, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
I really liked this book. The plot was unique and the protagonist is very likable. The period setting is very well done. I would recommend it fully.
