Take a photo of a barcode or cover
3.36 AVERAGE
3.36 AVERAGE
First time Alys Clare reader here. This intro was an interesting one. For starters, the time period isn't one I normally read historical mysteries. I'm rather unfamiliar with England during the early 1600's. I think this sets this book apart from others in the historical fiction genre as many are set during 1800s-whether it be England or America.
Brief Synopsis (it's in the book description after all): Dr. Gabriel Taverner, seafarer turned ship's surgeon finds he must leave a life at sea after a tragic head injury that left with the inability to sail. He finds himself in Devon with ambitions to treat the locals. Someone doesn't want him there and is leaving him chilling messages in the form of graphic "gifts" on his doorstep. He plans on discovering whether it is a local prankster or the devious workings of a rival physician, when he is diverted by the murder of his brother in law. He thought his sister's marriage was a content one until he begins to learn more details of their intimate life and the sordid life his brother in law led. As he works to solve the case with coroner, Theodophilus Davey, Gabriel is led to make choices that may take him on the wrong side of the law. As a string of corpses begin to pile up, it is evident that the murderer has personal vendetta. When Gabriel receives threats, it becomes evident that the murderer is caught before he finds himself in the body count.
What Did I Think: I will definitely read Book 2. I enjoyed the story though, in all honesty, I had guessed at the ending. Certain pieces of the plot were evident to a lover of mystery fiction. Overall, it was a pleasant read and I appreciated the time period it was set in. The writing is candid and flows along at a steady pace. If you enjoy historical mysteries as a genre, you would like this one. There is a brief flirtation at a love interest but the theme is always the mystery.
Thank you Netgalley and Severn House Publishers for allowing me to read this novel in exchange for my honest review.
Brief Synopsis (it's in the book description after all): Dr. Gabriel Taverner, seafarer turned ship's surgeon finds he must leave a life at sea after a tragic head injury that left with the inability to sail. He finds himself in Devon with ambitions to treat the locals. Someone doesn't want him there and is leaving him chilling messages in the form of graphic "gifts" on his doorstep. He plans on discovering whether it is a local prankster or the devious workings of a rival physician, when he is diverted by the murder of his brother in law. He thought his sister's marriage was a content one until he begins to learn more details of their intimate life and the sordid life his brother in law led. As he works to solve the case with coroner, Theodophilus Davey, Gabriel is led to make choices that may take him on the wrong side of the law. As a string of corpses begin to pile up, it is evident that the murderer has personal vendetta. When Gabriel receives threats, it becomes evident that the murderer is caught before he finds himself in the body count.
What Did I Think: I will definitely read Book 2. I enjoyed the story though, in all honesty, I had guessed at the ending. Certain pieces of the plot were evident to a lover of mystery fiction. Overall, it was a pleasant read and I appreciated the time period it was set in. The writing is candid and flows along at a steady pace. If you enjoy historical mysteries as a genre, you would like this one. There is a brief flirtation at a love interest but the theme is always the mystery.
Thank you Netgalley and Severn House Publishers for allowing me to read this novel in exchange for my honest review.
mysterious
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Miscarriage, Rape
Moderate: Alcoholism, Child death
1603 and Gabriel Taverner has returned from the sea and qualified as a doctor. He now lives in Devon near his family, but all in the neighbourhood are not happy to see him practice.
But when the local coroner Theophilus Davey calls him out to examine a body he wonders what evil may be lurking nearby. And will this be the last body.
As a first in a series I found an easy, interesting and enjoyable read with some likeable characters, with the scene set for the development of others. I look forward to reading the next book.
A NetGalley Book
But when the local coroner Theophilus Davey calls him out to examine a body he wonders what evil may be lurking nearby. And will this be the last body.
As a first in a series I found an easy, interesting and enjoyable read with some likeable characters, with the scene set for the development of others. I look forward to reading the next book.
A NetGalley Book