Chains of Folly (Five Star First Edition Mystery)
Although recently estranged, Magdalene la Batarde and her erstwhile lover, Sir Bellamy, once again team to solve the murder of one of Magdalene's sister prostitutes. Nelda Roundheel's death would be of little interest to anyone in twelfth-century London, but when her battered body is found in the bedchamber of Bellamy's patron, the bishop of Winchester, her killing takes on more sinister implications. Someone is clearly out to compromise the bishop, and the list of possible candidates runs the gamut from the king himself to the lowliest tavern denizen. A keen knowledge of medieval customs and political machinations, along with a sensitivity for character development, a sharp ear for dialogue, and an incisive attention to detail, elevate Gellis' historical mystery series beyond the standards of the subgenre. The interplay between Magdalene and Bellamy is as subtly nuanced and sensuous as any in contemporary settings, and Gellis' intricate plot twists and nose for intrigue should appeal to any mystery fan.Carol HaggasCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved