Unhallowed Ground: The Fourth Chronicle of Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon by Mel Starr, Book review

Synopsis:

Thomas atte Bridge, a man no one likes, is found hanging from a tree near Cow-Ley’s Corner. All assume he has taken his own life, but Master Hugh and Kate find evidence that this may not be so. Many of the town had been harmed by Thomas, and Hugh is not eager to send one of them to the gallows ... Hugh must discover which of his friends has murdered his enemy.

My personal thoughts:

Anyone familiar with the talented Brother Cadfael, the Welsh Benedictine monk so engagingly described by Ellis Peters will appreciate my interest in this book! 

I first heard of it on a Publisher's website and felt compelled to pursue this title whose author I had yet to discover! I also hoped for something different and was not disappointed!

'Unhallowed Ground' was my introduction to Mel Starr's and I immediately found his style to be unique and quite discerning! An impressive glossary allows curious minds like mine to discover words and terms the modern English language no longer use.

Mel Starr skillfully weaves a tapestry of intrigue, false leads, adventure and danger rendered  the more interesting by its many historical settings whilst leading the reader on a path of whodunit. 

Within a few pages you are wondering who is friend, who is foe and yes, it is a page turner!

The colourful but tasteful tale follows Hugh de Singleton, bailiff of Bampton Manor, as he is called to investigate the death of a local villager. Amongst his many talents Master Hugh is also noted as a medieval surgeon and a detective of sorts...

Is this a case of suicide or murder? Thus we are introduced to the ensuing intriguing plot!

With its excellent penmanship, 'Unhallowed Ground' is just the sort of book you will read and feel replete! 

I give it 5 stars (and quickly found a little niche for it on our bookshelves!)

On a note of worth, this book is the fourth chronicle of the series. The fifth chronicle 'The Tainted Coin' will soon be released!

About the author:

A student of Medieval Surgery and Medieval English, this history teacher has written 'The Unquiet Bones', 'A Corpse at St Andrews Chapel'' and 'A Trail of Ink'. 
For more on this Michigan author, please visit website (here).

NOTE TO READERS: I was not asked to review this title and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.