Cheryl R. (Spuddie) -
Helpful Score: 4
Issac is a blind Jewish physician in the 1350's in Girona, Spain. The first tale in the series deals with political intrigues, attempts to kill off heirs to the throne that miss and things of that nature. A nun is supposedly killed but further investigation shows it wasn't a nun at all, but a political plotter dressed like one. Issac uses his heightened sense of hearing and smell to help solve the crimes. Well-plotted mystery, excellent historical detail and I didn't guess the killer!
Helpful Score: 2
I finally found the first in this series. To my surprise all the main characters are in place in the first book as are the family issues (daughter married to a Christian, etc). I had assumed they would slowly appear as the series went on. The introductions were well done and fit well together. This is a "cozy" mystery, but one with depth and care. The focus is on the plot (and characters and location) not on humor or fluff. The author uses her historical situation well without overdoing it. It's much denser than most modern mysteries, and the lead characters are actually involved in actively doing things rather than just bouncing around and happening across clues (modern fluffy cozies overall bore me). A worthwhile series for those who like their mysteries non-gorey but with some meat to them.
Helpful Score: 1
Interesting mystery. I need to find more of her books. I really liked her characters.
