The Fourth Horseman (Gareth and Gwen Mysteries #3)

The Fourth Horseman

by Sarah Woodbury

Edition: Kindle, 2013

Synopsis: May 1144. Newly wedded, Gareth and Gwen travel across the border into England on a diplomatic mission with Prince Hywel of Wales. But when the mission goes awry and a murder case drops (literally) at their feet, Gareth and Gwen race to uncover a plot that threatens not only their lives, but the life of the future King of England himself.

Set in a climate of civil war and constantly shifting political alliances, murder, intrigue, and treachery take center stage in The Fourth Horseman, the third Gareth and Gwen medieval mystery.

Guests in a strange court, newlyweds Gwen and Gareth have a mystery dropped, quite literally, at their feet. In a place where the people they can trust steadily dwindles, they must work what is the truth and what is a lie.

As ever, I adore this couple. They each have their strengths when it comes to approaching a mystery, and together they make a formidable crime-solving force. I especially appreciated how their married state didn’t change them, save for Gareth’s concern for what his wife is exposed to.

This mystery happens in an area where they have no authority. The politics of this one extends to what was happening at the time, with the war between Empress Maud and Stephen of Blois. The only thing I struggled with is the Welsh names and history, which I will be the first to admit I am not well versed in. 

This series is a definite read for fans of the medieval era and lovers of a good mystery.