Saintly murders: a medieval mystery featuring Kathryn Swinbrooke
by C.L. Grace

The long awaited fifth book in C.L. Grace's Kathryn Swinbrooke series proves that Grace, a.k.a. P.C. Doherty, has not lost his touch. Kathryn, medieval physician and apothecary in English King Edward IV reign, proves once again that in many ways a female had more rights in 1300 than in 1900.

Rats have come to plague Canterbury in the summer of 1472 and at the friary Roger Atworth has died. He was the confessor of Dame Cecily of York, King Edward's mother and therefore privy to many royal secrets.

The friars want him beatified because of miraculous happenings surrounding his dead body. Kathryn has been appointed by the archbishop to investigate his death.

Aided by her love Colum Murtagh and using her extensive skills in medicine Kathryn discovers not only was Atworth murdered, but also was a spy for King Edward. She finds the two are connected to a far-reaching plot against the crown.

C.L. Grace brings the reign of Edward IV to life with good characterizations and historically accurate details. Kathryn's intelligence and strong will help to make this a very enjoyable historical mystery.

Reviewed by A. Wilson