It is 1603 and James I
has just ascended the throne. In rural Devon, Gabriel Taverner
has left his former position as a ship’s surgeon and
is setting up in practice as a doctor. Somebody is not happy
about this, and sinister messages keep being left for him
on his doorstep, but he is pleased to bump into an old acquaintance
who is now the local coroner. Theophilus Davey has a job for
him when a corpse is discovered, but finding out who it is
puts not only him but his family in danger.
I have read a number of this author’s other historical
mysteries, so was pleased to find that she has another new
series. Those familiar with her work know that they invariably
involve supernatural and New Age elements as well as a good
plot. This new series has the latter but not the former. Personally
this means that I enjoyed it more, as I prefer my mysteries
“straight.” But rest assured, if you are more
of a woo-woo fan than me, there is plenty left to enjoy. Ms
Clare is adept at sketching in her characters and allowing
them to develop as events occur, and Gabriel makes for an
interesting narrator. There is also a feeling of being firmly
not only in the early 17th century, but also in Devon. Although
the research does not intrude, it provides an authentic backdrop
to the story. I certainly didn’t guess it all, and there
is plenty going on at all times as Gabriel not only has to
solve the case, but also find his feet in his new position.
I will certainly be looking out for the next in what I think
will be (for me at least) this author’s best series
to date. If you enjoy historical mysteries, this presses all
the right buttons.
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