A Moorland Hanging : Book Review

"A Moorland Hanging" by Michael Jecks is an exciting historical mystery that transports readers to 14th century England. Set in the rugged and isolated Dartmoor moorland, the story begins with the discovery of a man found hanged, sparking suspicions of foul play among the locals. Protagonists Sir Baldwin Furnshill, a former Knight Templar, and his friend Bailiff Simon Puttock take it upon themselves to investigate the murder.

Jecks masterfully combines a gripping plot with meticulously researched historical details, immersing readers in the medieval atmosphere. The characters are vividly depicted and multi-faceted, with Sir Baldwin and Simon taking center stage. Their strong bond adds depth to the narrative, and their unwavering determination to uncover the truth keeps readers captivated.

The author's attention to detail is commendable, particularly in his description of the moorland setting. Jecks brings Dartmoor to life, capturing its harsh yet breathtaking landscape, which serves as the backdrop for the unfolding mystery. The pacing of the story is superb, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end.

In addition to the thrilling mystery, Jecks explores various social and political issues of the time, including the tensions between the Church and the Crown, as well as the devastating impact of the Black Death. These historical elements add depth and authenticity to the story, creating a rich and immersive reading experience.

Overall, "A Moorland Hanging" is a captivating and well-crafted historical mystery that will engage fans of the genre. Jecks' meticulous attention to detail, compelling characters, and immersive setting make this novel a must-read for anyone with a love for medieval mysteries.

What are readers saying?

"A Moorland Hanging" by Michael Jecks has garnered mixed reviews from readers. Set in medieval England, this historical mystery delves into the murder of a local lord and the subsequent investigation led by the protagonist, Sir Baldwin, accompanied by his companion Simon. Some readers have commended Jecks for his meticulous attention to historical detail, applauding how it adds depth to the story while immersing them in the medieval setting. The descriptions of the moorland and the characters' daily lives have been particularly well-received, with many readers praising the vivid imagery and atmospheric writing.

However, some reviewers have expressed disappointment with the plot's pacing, claiming that it progresses too slowly and the mystery itself lacks engagement. Additionally, some readers have struggled to form a connection with the characters, feeling that they are lacking in depth and development throughout the narrative.

Despite these criticisms, many readers have appreciated Jecks' writing style, finding it easy to follow and immersive. They have admired his ability to craft tension and suspense, particularly during the investigative and revelatory moments. Furthermore, the author's extensive knowledge of medieval history has been praised for lending authenticity to the narrative and providing readers with valuable insights into the time period.

One significant aspect of the reviews has been the varying opinions regarding the quality of the writing. While some readers find Jecks' prose engaging and well-crafted, others contend that it is overly simplistic and lacks depth. The dialogue, in particular, has been a point of contention, with some readers finding it unrealistic and stilted, while others argue it contributes to the medieval atmosphere.

Overall, opinions on "A Moorland Hanging" by Michael Jecks are divided. While some readers appreciate the historical detail and atmospheric writing, others find the pacing slow and the characters underdeveloped. It appears that this book may hold greater appeal for readers with an interest in medieval history and atmospheric settings, rather than those seeking a fast-paced mystery.

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