A series that continues to mature - you can read them out of order but they're better sequentially. Slower than some of the earlier books in this series, the mystery takes place late, but a nice depiction of the time and of Dame Frevisse and her contemplative life
Helpful Score: 1
Love, marriage, and death, greed and all the usual suspects,
From Publishers Weekly
Written with the graceful prose rhythms that have garnered her two Edgar nominations, Frazer's 10th tale of 15th-century nun Dame Frevisse (following The Reeve's Tale) transports the reader to a medieval England made vivid and a world of emotions as familiar then as now. Despite Frevisse's devotion to the religious routine of prayer and silence (not absolute) and her infrequent contact with those outside the nunnery of St. Frideswide, she remains an astute observer and interpreter of what she does see.Frevisse once again must use her skills to solve a crime. Finely plotted and subtly shaded, Frazer's tale has the detailed substance that brings an era to life, while her characters' psychological makeup is as cunningly wrought as the historical background.
From Publishers Weekly
Written with the graceful prose rhythms that have garnered her two Edgar nominations, Frazer's 10th tale of 15th-century nun Dame Frevisse (following The Reeve's Tale) transports the reader to a medieval England made vivid and a world of emotions as familiar then as now. Despite Frevisse's devotion to the religious routine of prayer and silence (not absolute) and her infrequent contact with those outside the nunnery of St. Frideswide, she remains an astute observer and interpreter of what she does see.Frevisse once again must use her skills to solve a crime. Finely plotted and subtly shaded, Frazer's tale has the detailed substance that brings an era to life, while her characters' psychological makeup is as cunningly wrought as the historical background.
These books are great historical stories and intelligent mysteries. Dame Frevisse uses her intelligence and wit to solve each one. Delightful read.
Jeannine W. (jrelehw) reviewed The Squire's Tale (Sister Frevisse, Bk 10) on + 204 more book reviews
THis one was a bit....unsettling! Blind sided me with who could have possible done it! But a good happy ending
Another incredible and well-written novel set in the 1400's. Dame Frevisse must solve two murders to safeguard her friends.
Another great in-depth character story by Frazer. A friend of Dame Frevisse is involved in a property dispute and may have to give up his ward for the settlement to avoid a feud. His pregnant wife, adamantly opposed to giving up the property even though they are legally in the wrong, is constantly overwrought to the point of a nervous breakdown, and Dame Claire finds herself assigned to safeguard her health. Frevisse and Claire find themselves in the middle of the arbitration when murder suddenly intrudes and Frevisse is called upon to investigate as a favor to her friend. Frazer is adept at delving deep into her characters and bringing them to life, and though the murder is almost an afterthought in this story, it is no less compelling. I found myself staying up till 2:30 am just to find out what happened in the end.
Margaret N. (maggie74) reviewed The Squire's Tale (Sister Frevisse, Bk 10) on + 31 more book reviews
One of a series of 'Tales' showcasing Dame Frevisse, leader of a medieval nunnery. Somewhat like Sherlock Holmes, Dame Frevisse unravels mysteries of all sorts.
Good read.
