A Taste for Killing: The intriguing medieval mystery series

Godfrey Bowyer and his wife Blanche are poisoned after their evening meal, leading to an investigation by Sheriff's men Hugh Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll, and Underserjeant Walkelin. However, the poison's administration suggests someone was pulling the strings, widening the net of suspects.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2022
Publisher: Allison & Busby

Worcester, January 1145. A tragic incident unfolds as bow maker Godfrey Bowyer and his wife Blanche fall victim to poison after their evening meal. While Blanche manages to survive, Godfrey meets an agonizing demise. The task of identifying the culprit should be relatively straightforward, considering the limited number of individuals who had access to the poison. However, there may be more to the story, suggesting that someone was orchestrating the events, broadening the scope of the investigation. In this case, the list of suspects is diverse and extensive.

The circumstances surrounding Godfrey's death evoke a sense of intrigue and suspicion. The poison used was highly potent, leading to a swift and painful demise. It raises questions about the motive behind the attack, as well as the potential involvement of others. The Sheriff's men, Hugh Bradecote, Serjeant Catchpoll, and Underserjeant Walkelin, are tasked with unraveling the mystery. However, their task becomes more challenging with an unpopular victim.

Godfrey's reputation as a skilled bow maker and his associations with various individuals and groups make him a prime suspect in the eyes of many. His business dealings, rivalries, and personal relationships could all play a role in determining who was responsible for his demise. Additionally, the timing of the incident, shortly after the Norman Conquest, adds another layer of complexity to the investigation. The new ruling regime may have had its own interests in eliminating potential threats or consolidating power.

As the Sheriff's men delve deeper into their investigation, they encounter a range of witnesses and suspects. Some offer valuable information, while others withhold crucial details or appear to be hiding something. The investigation takes them to various locations, including Godfrey's workshop, his home, and the surrounding areas. They gather evidence, conduct interrogations, and analyze the available information to piece together the puzzle.

Despite their efforts, the Sheriff's men face numerous obstacles and challenges. They encounter resistance from individuals who may be protecting their interests or have their own agendas. They also face the limitations of their resources and technology, which hinder their ability to gather comprehensive evidence. However, they remain determined to uncover the truth and bring the culprit to justice.

As the investigation unfolds, the Sheriff's men begin to develop theories and hypotheses about the motive behind the attack. Some suspect that it was a personal vendetta, driven by jealousy, resentment, or financial gain. Others believe that it was part of a larger plot, orchestrated by powerful individuals or groups with political or social motives. The investigation takes them to various places, including the royal court, where they encounter influential figures who may have had a hand in the events.

Finally, after months of tireless work, the Sheriff's men are able to identify the culprit behind the poisoning of Godfrey Bowyer and his wife Blanche. It is a person of high status and influence, someone who had a vested interest in seeing Godfrey's demise. The evidence gathered during the investigation is overwhelming, and the culprit is brought to justice.

The case of Godfrey Bowyer's poisoning serves as a reminder of the dark and complex nature of medieval society. It highlights the importance of vigilance, justice, and the pursuit of truth in a world where power, intrigue, and deception were prevalent. The Sheriff's men's dedication and perseverance in unraveling the mystery demonstrate the strength of the law and the importance of upholding the principles of fairness and equality.

In conclusion, the poisoning of Godfrey Bowyer and his wife Blanche in Worcester, January 1145, is a tragic incident that highlights the complexities of medieval society. The investigation by the Sheriff's men, despite facing numerous obstacles and challenges, demonstrates their dedication to justice and their commitment to upholding the principles of the law. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance, the pursuit of truth, and the strength of the law in a world where power, intrigue, and deception were prevalent.

Weight: 204g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780749028121