By the Edge of the Sword – published by The History Press – is the seventh book in a series of medieval mysteries by C.B. Hanley.
Set around Christmas 1218, the story opens at Conisbrough, where a stranger’s body is found frozen to death. The cryptic letter it carries is from Joanna, an old friend of Edwin Weaver’s, who is in danger and pleading for his help. Edwin and his friend Martin undertake a perilous winter journey to Brandon Castle in Warwickshire. They discover that Joanna stands accused of a heinous crime and, if convicted, she will be burned at the stake.
What did I think of the book?
I’ve long had an interest in history, but despite this, I rarely read historical fiction.
So, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book.
Set in the 13th century, the tale sees Martin – senior squire to a lord earl – determined to clear the name of Lady Joanna.
Meanwhile, his friend Edwin must control Martin, while attempting to solve a puzzle he is only seeing at second hand. Edwin knows nothing of any of the locals at Brandon Castle and can only work with the conflicting stories they tell him.
By the Edge of the Sword combines careful research with a thrilling, page-turning plot. And the author’s attention to detail skilfully transports the reader 800 years back in time to a bitter, medieval winter.
But a word of warning, you may need a strong stomach because the author doesn’t shy a way when it comes to describing gruesome parts of the action. I wasn’t put off and felt this made the book more realistic, especially because life in the medieval period was often brutal.
Edwin, who performs the role of detective, could give modern-day fictional sleuths a run for their money. I was fascinated by his process of searching for the truth, despite the many obstacles standing in his way.
Emotions and love also feature, and this adds to the tension and mystery.
I enjoyed trying to play detective as I read, but the author’s clever twists kept me guessing.
C.B. Hanley has whetted my appetite to try more historical, mystery fiction.
How much is the book and where can you buy it?
The paperback is £9.19 and the eBook is £2.37. To buy, click here, but please check Amazon for updated prices because they might change.
About the book
Title: By the Edge of the Sword
Author: C.B. Hanley
Publisher: The History Press
ISBN: 978-0750998161
Pages: 240
About the Author
C.B. Hanley holds a PhD in Medieval Studies, specialising in warfare in the 12th and 13th centuries. She’s published an academic book and a number of scholarly articles on the period, and continues to write non-fiction history for academic and general audiences. C.B. Hanley has worked as an historical interpreter, and is also a freelance copy editor and proofreader. She lives in Coventry.
Review by: Colette Warbrook
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*We were sent a copy of the book in return for a feature. All opinions are our own.
20 comments
I am like you have a huge interest in history, but rarely read historic fiction, and do love a book that keeps you guessing as more and more twists come about.
It did keep me guessing till the end, hope you get a copy of the book
I’m a fan of both historical fiction and mysteries, plus I particularly like medieval stuff, so this sounds perfect for me!
Sounds like the perfect book for you indeed
This book looks absolutely interesting. I love myself some good fiction and mystery, plus I’m on a journey to find more books to read.
A good title to add to your summer reading list
Love this review. I’m going to check out By the Edge of the Sword as well. Looks like a great read.
Thank you, I enjoyed reading the book
I am not usually interested in historical, mystery fiction books but you have certainly peaked my interest in this one with your review.
Worth checking the book out, you never know, you might enjoy reading it
I love medieval stories, I find them very thrilling and packed with historical facts. I will check By the edge of the sword. Thank you.
I agree, gives you a sense of nostalgia as well
Hope you do, a good book to read
I love that this is set in medieval times. It’s so wonderful to be able to loose yourself in a completely different chapter of history. Sounds like a good read!
Absolutely! Nothing like a good book for it
Sounds like a very enjoyable book, and it is nice that the author has studied medieval times – I imagine it really brings the content to life.
It is indeed, so the story is more believable
This book sounds really interesting. I will definitely check this out and have a copy of this.
I love historical fiction. This book sounds like a wonderful read! I am going to have to put it on my to-read list for this upcoming summer!
Hope you do, a great book for those who love a bit of history added into a novel