The Fenland Spell
A Father Eadred Tale
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5.0 • 1 Rating
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- $5.99
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- $5.99
Publisher Description
The Fenland Spell, awarded the B.R.A.G. (Book Readers Appreciation Group) Medallion
It is the year 832, and a torrent of crime is sweeping through the Kingdom of the East Angles. The cattle upon which folk depend for milk, meat and muscle are being slaughtered in droves by unknown killers and left to the wolves. Theft can be understood, but this wanton destruction of the kingdom’s lifeblood is unnerving rich and poor alike.
The new ealdorman persuades two of the most powerful families in the kingdom to end an age-old feud and unite, through marriage, against the unseen foe. The pact is precarious and would have many enemies, so it is organised in secret. The bishop despatches a young, inexperienced priest, Father Eadred, to conduct the ceremony. His decision will expose Eadred to terrible risks.
The skies open and floods leach murder victims from the earth. More killings will take place. Eadred is drawn into helping uncover the mind and the purpose behind the wave of death and destruction. He faces dangers in the world of men and from the spirit realm, but brings the conflict to a head in court and in battle. But has Eadred found all of the culprits?
Customer Reviews
A Dangerous Mystery to Solve
The Fenland Spell, second in the Father Eadred series, was as engrossing as the first book (Murder at Elmstow Minster). The young priest, Eadred, is a character with such relatable human traits, not skipping easily through the requirements of his office or using his piety as a shield, but instead battling his own weaknesses. He has the natural tendency to dread things he is asked to do which conflict with his desire for a quiet, contemplative life within the protective walls of Snailwell Minster and the joy of working the earth in the fields. Eadred's abilities for critical thinking and mystery solving draw him into service more than he would like.
The Fenland Spell poses a murder that becomes increasingly dangerous to solve, especially given the Anglo-Saxon time period where travel is perilous and social status and politics are major hurdles. The presence of Brother Tatwine as Eadred's eccentric and capable assistant provides a relentless energy to the advancement of the story.
Author Lindsay Jacob employs his expansive knowledge of Anglo-Saxon England to create an atmospheric, history-rich setting fraught with the hazards of the time. Danger hides in many places and Father Eadred once again visits those places to solve the murders.