Set in 1631, we are introduced to the University life of Aberdeen and to Alexander Seaton, regent of the Marischal College, a man greatly respected by his peers, who finds himself embroiled in mystery and intrigue when friend and college librarian, Robert Sim is found murdered.
Alexander is convinced that Robert knew something that caused him to killed, something he had discovered amongst a delivery of old books gifted to the college. In the course of his investigations into Robertโs murder, Alexander uncovers secrets amongst people of the town, secrets that involve alchemy, hermetics, and ultimately the secrets and rituals of the stonemasonโs society. Is it these that have led to the murder of not just Robert but an apparently innocent, young weaver? Or is there more to it?
This was an intriguing book to read. The descriptions of Aberdeen and the way of life of a 17th century university town were so carefully detailed as to evoke a clear picture in the readerโs mind. The characterโs sketched so cleverly it felt like you knew them. The plot was unhurried but told in such a gripping way that drew me in and, kept me enthralled, with the details of the Stonemasonโs rituals and mysteries. We are also given details of Alexanderโs private life that obviously follow the threads of previous novels but are easily picked up and help to bring his character to life. It is very cleverly written, leading the reader around and away from the real murderer but all the while the subtle hints are there if you care to look for them.
I found it a very interesting and different take on 17th century life, more than once I thought I had discovered the real murderer and was at last convinced I had it right โ I didnโt. I particularly enjoyed the details of the Stonemasonโs lodge โ to this day they still keep their intrigue and thatโs what piques our attention. Combined with brilliant writing and accurate knowledge of that time, it couldnโt help but be an amazing read. Iโm giving it 4 stars.
Thanks to Quercus for providing a copy to review and to Lisa from the ReadItSwapIt forums for reviewing it for me.
Related posts
Subscribe via Email
Recent Posts
It's hard to take a review seriously when it starts out listing all the historical inaccuracies in a fantasy book sโฆ https://t.co/xHH13FWULs
FollowSeems like Waterstones has sorted their stuff out now. My January pre-orders both arrived within a few days of release.
FollowReview: The Last Tale of the Flower Bride by Roshani Chokshi, a beautifully written, gothic horror. Thanksโฆ https://t.co/5dSsONxvWP
Follow