The Huntsman's Tale

Oxford Medieval Mysteries, Volume 3

By: Ann Swinfen

Narrated by: Philip Battley

Oxford, late summer, 1353. On hearing that his cousin is short-handed for the harvest, Nicholas Elyot takes a group of friends back to the family farm to help. When a deer hunt in Wychwood ends in tragedy, suspicion is directed toward the huntsman, a boyhood friend of Nicholas. But the victim has made many other enemies, any one of whom could have shot the fatal arrow. Can Nicholas uncover the real killer before it is too late?

©2017 Ann Swinfen (P)2017 Ann Swinfen

Fictional yet Historical learning

The stories by Ann Swinfen Medieval detective like novels are ones I enjoyed immensely. I learn medieval history and a see a plot where interesting characters grow and interact in each proceeding novels. I call it my 2 for 1 novels.

Another Gem of a Mystery!

I’m addicted. It’s the only explanation for why I’ve already bought 2 books that come after this one. Oh, I plan to buy them all!

The author once again depicts accurately the lives of villagers living during the reign of Edward III. In fact, I just looked up two extinct breeds of hunting dogs that are part of this story and the one earlier. You learn many things new every day, it seems; and what a pleasant way to learn them!

I’m keeping this review short, because I’m more than ready to begin the next book in this series!

All I can say is, listen to them! Bye

Keep reading, it gets better after a while.

This begins very, very slowly. A lot of time is spent getting organized and traveling to the farm. I think the murder doesn't occur until halfway through the book. It doesn't help that the narrator speaks somewhat slowly, as if every sentence is important. I don't remember noting that in the previous book. The reader knows who's the killer before the hero does. But I enjoyed the descriptions of country life at the time, and learning something of the character's youthful history. And the scene at the very end was a surprise.

Medieval Oxford - to die for...

Fourth book in the series. What a joy! You get quite an education in medieval life from some very enchanting characters. Nikolas seems to just attract danger, mystery, and righteous causes. Well plotted, not too many red herrings, and an almost satisfying resolution.....almost because justice isn't done. Maybe an Easter egg for a future book. Alas there are only 3 more as the author passed away in 2018.

Modern yet Medieval

Very engaging story and characters. I am eager for the next books. I enjoy reading these books because I feel I learn about history and enjoy a good story too.