An Ancient Evil

The first book in Paul Doherty's Canterbury Tales series follows a group of medieval pilgrims traveling to Canterbury in 1381. When a snowstorm forces them to seek shelter at an inn, they gather to share stories around the fire. The main tale comes from the Knight, who recounts a dark mystery from Oxford fifty years prior involving a series of murders. His story centers on the investigation by Regent Master William Falconer into deaths that seem connected to an ancient secret society called the Bellman. The narrative alternates between the pilgrims at the inn and the historical events of the Oxford murders, combining elements of historical fiction and classic mystery. The book incorporates authentic period details about medieval university life, street crime, and social customs of 14th century England. The novel explores themes of justice, paranoia, and how the past can haunt the present through interconnected layers of storytelling. Its structure mirrors Chaucer's own Canterbury Tales while creating a distinct murder mystery within that familiar frame.

Readers found this medieval mystery entertaining but not exceptional. They appreciated the authentic historical atmosphere and details about life in Canterbury during the plague years. The positive reviews highlighted: - Educational glimpses into 14th century medicine and pilgrimage life - The frame narrative structure with multiple storytellers - Connections to Chaucer's Canterbury Tales Common criticisms included: - Slow pacing, especially in the early chapters - Too many characters to track - Convoluted plot that some found hard to follow From Amazon reader Sarah K: "The historical research shines through but the mystery itself feels thin." Average ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (312 ratings) Amazon: 3.8/5 (89 ratings) LibraryThing: 3.5/5 (42 ratings) The divided reviews suggest this book appeals more to readers interested in medieval history than to traditional mystery fans.

The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco A medieval monk investigates murders in an Italian monastery while navigating church politics and forbidden knowledge.

The Cadfael Chronicles by Ellis Peters A 12th-century Benedictine monk solves crimes in medieval Shrewsbury using his knowledge of herbs and human nature.

The Death Maze by Ariana Franklin A female medical examiner in Henry II's England uncovers the truth behind deaths at a remote abbey.

Wine of Violence by Priscilla Royal A young prioress takes charge of an English priory where murders reveal tensions between monks and nuns.

The Gargoyle by Nicholas Kilmer An art historian traces the connection between present-day murders and medieval church secrets in Boston.

🔮 Author Paul Doherty is a historian who holds a PhD in Medieval Studies from Oxford University, lending authentic historical detail to his mystery novels. 📚 The book is part of the Canterbury Tales Murder Mysteries series, which cleverly reimagines Chaucer's pilgrims telling murder mysteries instead of the traditional tales. ⚔️ The story's setting in 1381 coincides with the actual Peasants' Revolt in England, a major uprising that saw rebels temporarily take control of London. 🏰 The novel incorporates the real medieval practice of "sanctuary," where fugitives could claim protection within church grounds for up to 40 days. 🕯️ The book draws on actual medieval beliefs about the "Night Wanderer," a figure from folklore who was said to stalk travelers on dark roads and lure them to their deaths.