Book review: The Season of the Beast

The Season of the Beast (The Agnes De Souarcy Chronicles by Andrea Japp)

This is the first in a series of historical mysteries about a young widow in medieval France. It has been translated from French, but is nevertheless a beautiful book to read if you don’t mind confusing narratives. I confess I skimmed over the many subplots and historical references I wasn’t sure of, because the characters and places described in between were very interesting. In particular Agnes De Souarcy is a strong character partly because she is depicted in such glowing terms as a renaissance woman and partly because she remains vulnerable in spite of her ample ability and intelligence. What was fascinating also were the various social skills and hazards of France in 1304, which are so different to those we use today. The historicity of these I found convincing, and made this book a worthwhile read. I read it very quickly, and due to a cliffhanger ending will now need to read the second and perhaps third in the series.

Amy

Devil's Brood

Sharon Penman has delivered an enthralling power play as Henry II and his fascinating wife, Eleanor of Acquitaine, deal with their 'devil's brood' growing up in her final volume of her trilogy on this the original power couple! Their 5 sons who include Richard the Lionheart and Prince John (of Robin Hood infamy) grow to manhood struggling to be recognised by their controlling father and to carve out their own destiny as Kings, Dukes and Counts in England and France. This is a long book - over 700 pages but the story rockets along as Henry deals with the aftermath of the murder of Thomas Beckett and the necessity to keep all his vassals in order. Sharon Penman does extensive research and adds notes explaining why she makes the choices she does when the historical record is not clear. Her website is also a source of good information on the period and her processes in writing historical fiction. As well as 'straight' historical fiction, she writes medieval mysteries which you will find in our Mysteries genre. I took a while to read this simply because the book is quite heavy - and I found it too heavy to read in bed but it's a great read so give it a go!
Wendy

In A Unicorn's Garden - magic and mystery in medieval gardens

A lovely new book to browse or to read in more depth. Find out the characteristics of gardens for alchemists, knights, pilgrims, cooks and more! what were the gardens used for in the context of the medieval times and who looked after them. Loaded with planting information and sample designs as well as photos and stories about re-created gardens you can visit (sadly most are in Europe!) as well as information to help you create your own patch of magic. I was impressed to realise that I had a number of well loved plants that would grace a Mary Garden viz carnations, roses, lavender, rosemary etc. The abiding impression is of the tranquility and serenity of a well-tended and designed garden to soothe the senses and uplift the spirit.
ahh bliss!
Wendy