Cloister of Whispers

Ela of Salisbury Medieval Mysteries, Book 6

By: J. G. Lewis

Narrated by: Madeleine Brolly

Salisbury, 1227: A priest is found cruelly murdered. A local outlaw is accused, and has disappeared into the king’s forest. Ela is keen to hunt down such an ungodly killer—but she soon finds that the story is far more complicated than it seems.

The Ela of Salisbury Medieval Mystery series:
This series features a real historical figure—the formidable Ela Longespée. The young Countess of Salisbury was chosen to marry King Henry II’s illegitimate son William. After her husband’s untimely death, Ela served as high sheriff of Wiltshire, castellan of Salisbury Castle, and ultimately founder and abbess of Lacock Abbey.

Book 1: Cathedral of Bones
Book 2: Breach of Faith
Book 3: The Lost Child
Book 4: Forest of Souls
Book 5: The Bone Chess Set
Book 6: Cloister of Whispers

Coming next: Book 7: Palace of Thorns

©2021 J. G. Lewis (P)2023 J. G. Lewis

A wonderful listen!

Ela, Sheriff of Salisbury in 13th century England is a remarkable person. Not only is she a woman in a position typically held by men, but she also runs a large estate and is raising four children. But most remarkable of all, she seeks to hold the guilty to account and not persecute the innocent, nor does she try to profit from her role as Sheriff and Countess. Madeleine Brolly is the ideal narrator for this series. She has a musical, clear voice which is pleasant to hear. Ela is the perfect foil to uncover the corruption of the medieval Catholic church in England and also the misdeeds of the aristocracy. She does this by taking their teachings and propaganda literally, showing the hypocrisy of the high and mighty who often get their just desserts. This novel was one of the best so far!

A bit too grim but exquisite writing

Very well-written, atmospheric and thoughtful, as were the prior five. This was not my favorite, because the depravity of so many people and institutions was just too much for me. Such a harsh, judgmental world. It hit me hard this time around. One thing that almost brought it down to three stars is I most enjoyed the encounters between Ela and the Outlaw, and was very unhappy with the final resolution. VERY unhappy. But the author is gifted and always interesting. The narration is exceptional.

Great story

I love the series and this one was great because of the feminist twist. The narrator is quite good also.

Enjoyable and interesting

I enjoy this series and the narrator. The plots are interesting and full of historical touches.