📖 Overview
Michael Jecks is a British author of historical crime fiction, best known for his Medieval West Country Mystery series featuring Sir Baldwin Furnshill and Simon Puttock, which spans 32 novels. He has published over 40 books in total since beginning his writing career in 1994.
The Medieval West Country mysteries are set in 14th century Devon, England, and follow the investigations of Sir Baldwin, a former Knight Templar turned Keeper of the King's Peace, and his friend Simon Puttock, the local bailiff. These novels are noted for their historical accuracy and detailed portrayal of medieval life.
Beyond his main series, Jecks has authored several standalone historical novels and contributed to collaborative works like The Medieval Murderers series. He served as Chairman of the Crime Writers' Association from 2004-2005 and is a founder member of Medieval Murderers, a group of historical crime writers.
Jecks continues to write and regularly participates in historical reenactments and educational events focused on medieval history. His work in historical fiction has earned him membership in the Royal Literary Fund and recognition as an authority on medieval life and crime writing.
👀 Reviews
Readers appreciate Jecks' detailed historical research and accurate portrayal of medieval life in Devon. Many point to his ability to create a strong sense of time and place through period-specific details of daily life, law enforcement, and social structures.
Readers highlight the complex relationship between Baldwin and Simon, noting their complementary investigative styles. Amazon reviews frequently mention the intricate plots and multiple storylines that come together at the end.
Common criticisms include pacing issues in the middle sections of books and occasional overuse of historical detail that slows the narrative. Some readers on Goodreads note that certain books in the series feel formulaic.
Ratings across platforms:
- Goodreads: Average 3.9/5 across the series
- Amazon: 4.2/5 average
- LibraryThing: 3.8/5 average
One frequent comment from readers: "The history feels lived-in rather than researched." Another common note: "You can open any book and learn something new about medieval life."
Issues cited: "Sometimes the historical details overshadow the mystery elements" and "Takes time to get to the main plot."
📚 Books by Michael Jecks
The Last Templar - In 1316 Devon, a newly appointed bailiff investigates the brutal murder of a Templar knight found on the moor.
The Merchant's Partner - Bailiff Simon Puttock and Sir Baldwin Furnshill examine the death of a young woman believed to be a practicing witch.
A Moorland Hanging - A runaway villein is found hanged, leading to an investigation that reveals the tensions between wealthy landowners and their tenants.
The Crediton Killings - During the 1321 rebellion in Devon, Simon and Baldwin must solve the murder of a prominent townsman amid political turmoil.
The Mad Monk of Gidleigh - The discovery of a young girl's body near a monastery leads to an investigation of the local religious community.
The Templar's Penance - While on pilgrimage in Spain, Sir Baldwin becomes entangled in solving murders along the Santiago de Compostela route.
The Outlaws of Ennor - Simon and Baldwin investigate piracy and murder on the Scilly Isles during a diplomatic mission.
The Tolls of Death - A series of murders in Plymouth reveals connections to wine smuggling and local corruption.
The Chapel of Bones - An investigation into deaths at Exeter's Cathedral leads to centuries-old secrets about the murder of Walter Stapleton.
The Butcher of St Peter's - A brutal killing spree in Exeter coincides with the arrival of a new meat vendor in the city.
Act of Vengeance - A modern thriller following an ex-soldier seeking justice after his family is killed in a terrorist attack.
Blood on the Sand - A contemporary crime novel set against the backdrop of Middle Eastern politics and archaeological theft.
The Merchant's Partner - Bailiff Simon Puttock and Sir Baldwin Furnshill examine the death of a young woman believed to be a practicing witch.
A Moorland Hanging - A runaway villein is found hanged, leading to an investigation that reveals the tensions between wealthy landowners and their tenants.
The Crediton Killings - During the 1321 rebellion in Devon, Simon and Baldwin must solve the murder of a prominent townsman amid political turmoil.
The Mad Monk of Gidleigh - The discovery of a young girl's body near a monastery leads to an investigation of the local religious community.
The Templar's Penance - While on pilgrimage in Spain, Sir Baldwin becomes entangled in solving murders along the Santiago de Compostela route.
The Outlaws of Ennor - Simon and Baldwin investigate piracy and murder on the Scilly Isles during a diplomatic mission.
The Tolls of Death - A series of murders in Plymouth reveals connections to wine smuggling and local corruption.
The Chapel of Bones - An investigation into deaths at Exeter's Cathedral leads to centuries-old secrets about the murder of Walter Stapleton.
The Butcher of St Peter's - A brutal killing spree in Exeter coincides with the arrival of a new meat vendor in the city.
Act of Vengeance - A modern thriller following an ex-soldier seeking justice after his family is killed in a terrorist attack.
Blood on the Sand - A contemporary crime novel set against the backdrop of Middle Eastern politics and archaeological theft.
👥 Similar authors
Ellis Peters writes medieval murder mysteries featuring Brother Cadfael, a Welsh Benedictine monk solving crimes in 12th century England. Her work combines historical authenticity with monastery life and criminal investigations.
C.J. Sansom creates murder mysteries set in Tudor England featuring the hunchback lawyer Matthew Shardlake. His plots interweave historical events and political intrigue with criminal investigations during Henry VIII's reign.
Paul Doherty writes detective fiction set in medieval England and ancient Egypt, including series featuring Hugh Corbett and Brother Athelstan. His background as a historian informs the period details and social dynamics in his mysteries.
Susanna Gregory sets her mysteries in 14th century Cambridge, following physician Matthew Bartholomew as he investigates murders. Her work incorporates medieval medical knowledge and university politics into the investigations.
Bernard Knight creates mysteries featuring Crowner John, a coroner in 12th century Devon investigating suspicious deaths. His experience as a forensic pathologist brings authenticity to the medieval medical and investigative elements.
C.J. Sansom creates murder mysteries set in Tudor England featuring the hunchback lawyer Matthew Shardlake. His plots interweave historical events and political intrigue with criminal investigations during Henry VIII's reign.
Paul Doherty writes detective fiction set in medieval England and ancient Egypt, including series featuring Hugh Corbett and Brother Athelstan. His background as a historian informs the period details and social dynamics in his mysteries.
Susanna Gregory sets her mysteries in 14th century Cambridge, following physician Matthew Bartholomew as he investigates murders. Her work incorporates medieval medical knowledge and university politics into the investigations.
Bernard Knight creates mysteries featuring Crowner John, a coroner in 12th century Devon investigating suspicious deaths. His experience as a forensic pathologist brings authenticity to the medieval medical and investigative elements.