Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical Mystery, Murder Mystery | Release Date: 18 February 2021 | Series: Domesday | Series Book: #9 | Pages: 311 | Publisher: Allison & Busby | Review
“Funerals are occasions for honesty.”
Edward Marston
Overview:
The Foxes of Warwick by Edward Marston is *finally* receiving a moment in the spotlight today! It’s been a while, hasn’t it? I swear I didn’t think I’d take so long to tell you all about this wonderful historical fiction, but… Well, life always likes to throw a few surprises our way, doesn’t it?
In this cosy mystery, a dead body is found while Henry Beaumont’s enjoying a December hunt with his foxhounds. Discovering that it’s Martin Reynard, once the reeve to Beaumont, there’s no doubt in the constable’s mind who the murderer is. However, when Ralph Delchard and Gervase Bret arrive to settle a land dispute, too many questions arise over this quick decision. Why would a blacksmith kill Reynard? Why is Beaumont so quick to condemn him? And is this actually all connected to the land dispute, originally at the heart of Ralph and Gervase’s investigation?
Even the Calico Griffin dragons think so!
Happiness Boost:
I unknowingly picked up book nine (yes, nine) of the series. But that doesn’t matter! And that’s the best thing about wonderful mysteries like The Foxes of Warwick, you don’t need to get the first book to understand the characters in play. And what’s more, there are quirky and loveable side characters like Brother Benedict, who just make reading this book a true delight! Every time he appeared on the page, I smiled. Brother Benedict is like a ray of sunshine and I hope there’s more of him in the series.
In The Foxes of Warwick we are also witness to prejudice from that era, which foolishly I’d never really considered. Why is this a happiness boost? Because it gave me an insight into the issues between Anglo-Saxons and Normans, ones I’d never even thought of. I love when I can learn something new, and Marston continually gives the reader juicy tidbits of history! For those who don’t know, my PhD focused on history, so this happiness boost might be unique to me… But who am I to deny my inner nerd?
Murder mysteries need to be good at giving us both red herrings and unexpected revelations. I’m *very* happy to say that The Foxes of Warwick does this! And what’s more, it has a rather dry humour as it does so, which just really appeals to me. I honestly don’t think anyone else other than Marston could insert a performing bear, a donkey and a travelling miracle worker in their book and make it work *this* well.
Downside:
No downside!
Final Thoughts:
The Foxes of Warwick by Edward Marston is a great historical fiction, which would delight anyone in search of a cosy mystery in the heart of England. If you’re searching for a rather Christie-like investigation, with a number of eccentric characters and intriguing plots? Look no further! This book will be just the thing for you, to enjoy alongside a lovely cup of tea and a bikkie or two.
If you’ve enjoyed what you’ve read here, I definitely recommend getting a copy of The Foxes of Warwick via the links below. Happy reading, glitterbugs!
You can order The Foxes of Warwick via these links:
