Satan in St Mary's

This medieval mystery takes place in London during 1284, where rumors spread about satanic rituals occurring at St. Mary's hospital. Chief Justice Giles of Westminster dispatches Sir Hugh Corbett to investigate the suspicious deaths and disappearances connected to the hospital. Sir Hugh Corbett must navigate through the complex politics and dark secrets of medieval London's medical establishment. His investigation leads him through a web of suspects including physicians, clergy members, and hospital staff, each with potential motives and hidden agendas. The story combines historical detail about medieval medicine and hospital practices with elements of mystery and the supernatural. The dark atmosphere of medieval London serves as a backdrop to Corbett's methodical pursuit of truth. The novel explores themes of faith versus superstition in medieval society, while examining how fear and prejudice can take root in isolated communities. Through its historical setting, it raises questions about the relationship between medicine, religion, and power.

Reviews point to Satan in St Mary's being an engaging medieval murder mystery that focuses on Brother Athelstan investigating deaths in a church. What readers liked: - Historical details and atmosphere feel authentic - Plot maintains suspense through multiple storylines - Characters have depth and complexity - Writing brings medieval London to life What readers disliked: - Some pacing issues in the middle section - Religious elements can be dense at times - A few reviewers found the resolution unclear Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (138 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (47 ratings) Review quotes: "The historical details add richness without bogging down the story" - Goodreads reader "Athelstan is a compelling protagonist but some of the secondary characters blur together" - Amazon review "Doherty excels at creating the dark, gritty feel of 14th century London" - Historical Fiction Review Critical consensus ranks this as a solid entry in the Brother Athelstan series, though not considered among the strongest.

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🔍 Paul Doherty drew inspiration from real medieval church records documenting cases of demon possession and exorcisms in 14th-century England. ⚔️ The book is part of the Brother Athelstan medieval mystery series, which features a Dominican friar solving crimes in London during the turbulent reign of Richard II. 🏰 St. Mary's was a common name for churches in medieval London, with over 14 churches bearing this name by the 14th century. 🗝️ Author Paul Doherty holds a PhD in history from Oxford University and serves as headmaster of Trinity Catholic High School in London, bringing scholarly authenticity to his historical mysteries. 👻 The novel incorporates elements of the medieval belief in "church grims" - protective spirits that were thought to guard churches, often taking the form of black dogs or other creatures.