What do you think?
Rate this book
Hugh Corbett #1
Satan in St Mary's
1284 and Edward I is battling a traitorous movement founded by the late Simon de Montfort, the rebel who lost his life at the Battle of Evesham in 1258. The Pentangle, the movement's underground society whose members are known to practice the black arts, is thought to be behind the apparent suicide of Lawrence Duket, one of the King's loyal subjects, in revenge for Duket's murder of one of their supporters. The King, deeply suspicious of the affair, orders his wily Chancellor, Burnell, to look into the matter. Burnell chooses a sharp and clever clerk from the Court of King's Bench, Hugh Corbett, to conduct the investigation. Corbett - together with his manservant, Ranulf, late of Newgate - is swiftly drawn into the tangled politics and dark and dangerous underworld of medieval London.
186 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 1986
193 people are currently reading
2266 people want to read
About the author
Paul Doherty
236 books606 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
He has been published under several pseudonyms: P.C. Doherty, Celia L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas, Vanessa Alexander, Michael Clynes and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name.
Paul Doherty was born in Middlesbrough (North-Eastern England) in 1946. He had the usual education before studying at Durham for three years for the Catholic priesthood but decided not to proceed. He went to Liverpool University where he gained a First Class Honours Degree in History and won a state scholarship to Exeter College, Oxford, whilst there he met his wife Carla Lynn Corbitt. He continued his studies but decided that the academic world was not for him and became a secondary school teacher.
Paul worked in Ascot, Nottingham and Crawley West Sussex before being appointed as Headmaster to Trinity Catholic School in September 1981. Trinity is a large comprehensive [1700 on roll] which teaches the full ability range, ages 11-18. The school has been described as one of the leading comprehensives in the U.K. In April, 2000 H. M. Inspectorate describe it as an 'Outstanding School', and it was given Beacon status as a Centre of Excellence whilst, in the Chief Inspector’s Report to the Secretary of State for January 2001, Trinity Catholic High School was singled out for praise and received a public accolade.
Paul’s other incarnation is as a novelist. He finished his doctorate on the reign of Edward II of England and, in 1987, began to publish a series of outstanding historical mysteries set in the Middle Age, Classical, Greek, Ancient Egypt and elsewhere. These have been published in the United States by St. Martin’s Press of New York, Edhasa in Spain, and Eichborn, Heyne, Knaur and others in Germany. They have also been published in Holland, Belgium, France, Italy, Romania, Estonia, Czechoslovakia, Russia, Bulgaria, Portugal and China, as well as Argentina and Mexico.
He has been published under several pseudonyms (see the bibliography): C. L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name. He recently launched a very successful series based around the life of Alexander the Great, published by Constable & Robinson in the U.K., and Carroll and Graf in the U.S.A., whilst his novels set in Ancient Egypt have won critical acclaim. Paul has also written several non-fiction titles; A Life of Isabella the She-wolf of France, Wife of Edward II of England, as well as study of the possible murder of Tutankhamun, the boy Pharaoh of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, and a study on the true fate of Alexander the Great.
Paul and Carla live on the borders of London and Essex, not far from Epping Forest and six of their children have been through his own school. His wife Carla currently owns two horses and is training, for showing and dressage, a beautiful Arab filly named Polly.
Paul lectures for a number of organisations, particularly on historical mysteries, many of which later feature in his writings. A born speaker and trained lecturer Paul Doherty can hold and entertain audiences.
His one great ambition is to petition the Privy Council of England to open the Purbeck marble tomb of Edward II in Gloucester Cathedral. Paul believes the tomb does not house the body
He has been published under several pseudonyms: P.C. Doherty, Celia L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas, Vanessa Alexander, Michael Clynes and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name.
Paul Doherty was born in Middlesbrough (North-Eastern England) in 1946. He had the usual education before studying at Durham for three years for the Catholic priesthood but decided not to proceed. He went to Liverpool University where he gained a First Class Honours Degree in History and won a state scholarship to Exeter College, Oxford, whilst there he met his wife Carla Lynn Corbitt. He continued his studies but decided that the academic world was not for him and became a secondary school teacher.
Paul worked in Ascot, Nottingham and Crawley West Sussex before being appointed as Headmaster to Trinity Catholic School in September 1981. Trinity is a large comprehensive [1700 on roll] which teaches the full ability range, ages 11-18. The school has been described as one of the leading comprehensives in the U.K. In April, 2000 H. M. Inspectorate describe it as an 'Outstanding School', and it was given Beacon status as a Centre of Excellence whilst, in the Chief Inspector’s Report to the Secretary of State for January 2001, Trinity Catholic High School was singled out for praise and received a public accolade.
Paul’s other incarnation is as a novelist. He finished his doctorate on the reign of Edward II of England and, in 1987, began to publish a series of outstanding historical mysteries set in the Middle Age, Classical, Greek, Ancient Egypt and elsewhere. These have been published in the United States by St. Martin’s Press of New York, Edhasa in Spain, and Eichborn, Heyne, Knaur and others in Germany. They have also been published in Holland, Belgium, France, Italy, Romania, Estonia, Czechoslovakia, Russia, Bulgaria, Portugal and China, as well as Argentina and Mexico.
He has been published under several pseudonyms (see the bibliography): C. L. Grace, Paul Harding, Ann Dukthas and Anna Apostolou but now writes only under his own name. He recently launched a very successful series based around the life of Alexander the Great, published by Constable & Robinson in the U.K., and Carroll and Graf in the U.S.A., whilst his novels set in Ancient Egypt have won critical acclaim. Paul has also written several non-fiction titles; A Life of Isabella the She-wolf of France, Wife of Edward II of England, as well as study of the possible murder of Tutankhamun, the boy Pharaoh of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, and a study on the true fate of Alexander the Great.
Paul and Carla live on the borders of London and Essex, not far from Epping Forest and six of their children have been through his own school. His wife Carla currently owns two horses and is training, for showing and dressage, a beautiful Arab filly named Polly.
Paul lectures for a number of organisations, particularly on historical mysteries, many of which later feature in his writings. A born speaker and trained lecturer Paul Doherty can hold and entertain audiences.
His one great ambition is to petition the Privy Council of England to open the Purbeck marble tomb of Edward II in Gloucester Cathedral. Paul believes the tomb does not house the body
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
May 10, 2020
I guess when you are a headmaster as well as an author, you have a tendency towards the didactic. You know, teach 'em history while they think they're reading a novel. That was definitely the case with the first Doherty novel that I read (The Mask of Ra). It certainly also explains the attention to setting and the details of Hugh's daily life, rather than on his thoughts or feelings.
Any one who has been reading my reviews for a while will know that when it comes to historical mysteries, I hold Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael books up as my gold standard. They are one of the only cozy mystery series that I can honestly claim to really, really enjoy. And that is because of Peters' characterization of Cadfael. He is easy to know and to sympathize with. Hugh Corbett has potential to get there, but we aren't permitted very far into his interior life. At this point, he remains remote, despite the fact that we witness his struggle and pain over his relationship with Alice.
I currently have book two of this series sitting on my bookshelf waiting, so I'm happy that I liked book one as much as I did. Having a collection of unread books has been a sanity saver during this time of pandemic and physical distancing. This week, our public library will be sharing their plans for reopening, but maybe I will take time to investigate another crime with Hugh before I rejoin society.
Any one who has been reading my reviews for a while will know that when it comes to historical mysteries, I hold Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael books up as my gold standard. They are one of the only cozy mystery series that I can honestly claim to really, really enjoy. And that is because of Peters' characterization of Cadfael. He is easy to know and to sympathize with. Hugh Corbett has potential to get there, but we aren't permitted very far into his interior life. At this point, he remains remote, despite the fact that we witness his struggle and pain over his relationship with Alice.
I currently have book two of this series sitting on my bookshelf waiting, so I'm happy that I liked book one as much as I did. Having a collection of unread books has been a sanity saver during this time of pandemic and physical distancing. This week, our public library will be sharing their plans for reopening, but maybe I will take time to investigate another crime with Hugh before I rejoin society.
January 29, 2018
3.5
In short, Satan in St Mary's is a medieval murder mystery that turns out to have more layers than the protagonist knew or expected. The readers know it's about treason, plotting against the crown, Satanic rites and so on, because you get scenes with the antagonists too. Well, a couple of meetings actually, but it's enough to know more about it than the man sent to investigate the whole thing.
I liked the way the world is described. The 1200s London is a filthy and dangerous place - maids throwing "he ordure and rubbish of the night so the scavengers or rakers could clear it away", "‘roaring boys’, gangs of ruffians", secret brothels, people being murdered in the street and left there and so on.
The protagonist Hugh Corbett is a clerk from the Court of King's Bench and he is sent to investigate a suspicious suicide. He isn't given many details. I mostly enjoyed the way he went about it. Mostly, because he was a bit distracted by a woman at one point.
The other side isn't really hidden that well. I mean, the reader knows a lot of things way before Corbett discovers them, but overall the story is pretty good. Being the first in the series, I think it does the job of attracting a reader quite well. I will continue with the series.
In short, Satan in St Mary's is a medieval murder mystery that turns out to have more layers than the protagonist knew or expected. The readers know it's about treason, plotting against the crown, Satanic rites and so on, because you get scenes with the antagonists too. Well, a couple of meetings actually, but it's enough to know more about it than the man sent to investigate the whole thing.
I liked the way the world is described. The 1200s London is a filthy and dangerous place - maids throwing "he ordure and rubbish of the night so the scavengers or rakers could clear it away", "‘roaring boys’, gangs of ruffians", secret brothels, people being murdered in the street and left there and so on.
The protagonist Hugh Corbett is a clerk from the Court of King's Bench and he is sent to investigate a suspicious suicide. He isn't given many details. I mostly enjoyed the way he went about it. Mostly, because he was a bit distracted by a woman at one point.
The other side isn't really hidden that well. I mean, the reader knows a lot of things way before Corbett discovers them, but overall the story is pretty good. Being the first in the series, I think it does the job of attracting a reader quite well. I will continue with the series.
August 31, 2025
**Read 4.5 STARS!**
This exciting historical mystery is the 1st outing of the "Hugh Corbett" series, and was originally published in 1986.
At the end of the book you'll an Author's Note, where some very real figures featuring in this novel are wonderfully explained.
Storytelling is excellent, all characters are very believable and lifelike, while this period of history and its atmosphere come splendidly off the pages, but you can feel and read the first tentative steps in what is to become one of the author's best series to date.
The book is set in the year 1284, with King Edward I on the throne, but now his life and that of the City of London are in danger, because of a secret coven calling themselves the Pentangle and attached to this is a movement namely the Populares, and they are causing mayhem and murder
in London.
The story starts off with the hanging of Lawrence Duket in the church of St Mary le Bow while staying there seeking sanctuary, after Duket himself killed a man named Ralph Crepyn, and so for Chancellor Burnell to find a man suitable to investigate this suspicious death, and this man will be Hugh Corbett.
This clever clerk from the Court of King's Bench will find a servant/henchman by the name of Ranulf at(te) Newgate, and they, but especially Hugh Corbett, will have to face danger and assassination attempts from a certain corner, before Hugh Corbett can untangle the threads of this web of deceit and death, and finally pin down the perpetrators and have them caught and prosecuted by Edward's Royal forces.
Highly recommended, for this is an excellent first opener of this series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "An Outstanding Satanic Start"!
This exciting historical mystery is the 1st outing of the "Hugh Corbett" series, and was originally published in 1986.
At the end of the book you'll an Author's Note, where some very real figures featuring in this novel are wonderfully explained.
Storytelling is excellent, all characters are very believable and lifelike, while this period of history and its atmosphere come splendidly off the pages, but you can feel and read the first tentative steps in what is to become one of the author's best series to date.
The book is set in the year 1284, with King Edward I on the throne, but now his life and that of the City of London are in danger, because of a secret coven calling themselves the Pentangle and attached to this is a movement namely the Populares, and they are causing mayhem and murder
in London.
The story starts off with the hanging of Lawrence Duket in the church of St Mary le Bow while staying there seeking sanctuary, after Duket himself killed a man named Ralph Crepyn, and so for Chancellor Burnell to find a man suitable to investigate this suspicious death, and this man will be Hugh Corbett.
This clever clerk from the Court of King's Bench will find a servant/henchman by the name of Ranulf at(te) Newgate, and they, but especially Hugh Corbett, will have to face danger and assassination attempts from a certain corner, before Hugh Corbett can untangle the threads of this web of deceit and death, and finally pin down the perpetrators and have them caught and prosecuted by Edward's Royal forces.
Highly recommended, for this is an excellent first opener of this series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "An Outstanding Satanic Start"!
August 9, 2025
A medieval mystery set during King Edward I reign. I enjoyed the medieval ambience. The dark gloomy atmosphere felt authentic to the time period. There's also a nice addition of the intrigue of the dark arts, and possible witchcraft. Those things were very real to people during that time, so I thought that blended really nicely with the story. I wish the historical events were blended a little more, and maybe a little more exploration of the inner world of the characters. It's possible I just don't know enough about the true events surrounding Edward I. I enjoy Doherty's atmospheric writing and historical fiction/mysteries.
March 15, 2017
I really enjoyed that and I look forward to reading more of Paul Doherty's books.
March 31, 2022
El Diablo en Santa María
Londres.
Estamos en el siglo XIII en pleno reinado de Eduardo I de Inglaterra y Leonor de Castilla.
El rey sospecha de una conspiración para derrocarle con motivo de una misteriosa muerte acaecida en la iglesia de Santa María.
La investigación se le encarga a un escribano, antiguo soldado, llamado Hugo Corbett. Este, rescata a un joven de la cárcel, apunto de ser ahorcado, para que le ayude a introducirse en los bajos fondos de Londres.
Novela corta basada en hechos reales, todo lo que aparece aquí ocurrió en mayor o menor medida. Buena manera de leer trozos de historia.
Londres.
Estamos en el siglo XIII en pleno reinado de Eduardo I de Inglaterra y Leonor de Castilla.
El rey sospecha de una conspiración para derrocarle con motivo de una misteriosa muerte acaecida en la iglesia de Santa María.
La investigación se le encarga a un escribano, antiguo soldado, llamado Hugo Corbett. Este, rescata a un joven de la cárcel, apunto de ser ahorcado, para que le ayude a introducirse en los bajos fondos de Londres.
Novela corta basada en hechos reales, todo lo que aparece aquí ocurrió en mayor o menor medida. Buena manera de leer trozos de historia.
February 13, 2014
I am new to historical fiction. I was motivated to seek this one out having recently read the 5 novel series by CJ Sansom set in Tudor England, beginning with "Dissolution". Paul Doherty has written a series of 17 historical novels set around 1300 in England. His main protagonist is Hugh Corbett, an official of King Edward's court who is repeatedly sent by the king to solve some crime or other. The first one, "Satan in St Mary's" is set in London but others are set in different parts of the country as well as London. They are mostly around 200 pages and easy to read with a good combination of interesting characters, real history and suspense. I enjoyed this first one sufficiently that I have now read the first 12 of 17 in the series. Some are naturally better than others. The best ones involve political intrigue with the king's French enemies and spies. "Satan in St Mary's" revolves around murders committed by a cult of sort, supposedly with satanic links.
April 4, 2018
I wished to read the first book in which Hugh Corbett is introduced, and Satan in St. Mary’s by P. C. Doherty accomplished this for me. What a fascinating character! Also the author’s knowledge of London in 1284 is unbelievably realistic. It just jumps off the page. Hugh is assigned to investigate a death at St. Mary Le Bow Church, but he is sent on assignment with no pertinent information in which to assist him, and he is doing this alone. Hugh realizes after awhile that he needs to ‘hire’ someone to literally watch his back. Thus, I got to met Ranulf atte Newgate who becomes Hugh’s new assistant. Ranulf’s last name indicates where Hugh ‘found’ him, but his streetwise ways become extremely helpful to Hugh. A great introduction! The author knows his material and uses fact to enhance his presentation of Hugh Corbett, Royal Clerk. If one is ‘into medieval’, this book is for you.
Loved it!
Loved it!
January 7, 2009
SATAN IN ST. MARY’S (Hist. Mys-Hugh Corbett-England-1284) - G
Doherty, P.C. – 1st in series
Headline, 1986, UK Paperback – ISBN: 0747234922
First Sentence: A savage, cold wind had sprung up just after dark.
Simon de Montfort, considered traitor to the king, is dead but his supporters, many of whom are thought to be practitioners of the black arts, still exist and are thought to be associated with the Church of St. Mary le Bow. Lawrence Duket committed murder and took sanctuary in St. Mary’s only to be found hanged as an apparent suicide.
Clerk of King’s Court Hugh Corbett has been summoned by Edward I’s Chancellor Robert Burnell to investigate the death.
That this book is based on an actual event was particularly appealing to me. Doherty makes this period come to life. As we travel around London with Hugh, it felt as natural as were he taking taxi’s in present day.
The story, however, I found weak. The basic plot was good and interesting, but the execution was awkward. The protagonist would uncover information but not share it with the reader, which was annoying rather than enticing. The villain was evident very early in the story so I had little sympathy with Hugh figured it out.
As to the characters, we were given just enough information to understand who they are but I still didn’t feel I knew them. Ranulf, Hugh’s sidekick, is appealing and adds lightness to the story where Hugh was rather unsympathetic.
I liked the book well enough that I will read more, but mainly because of the history.
Doherty, P.C. – 1st in series
Headline, 1986, UK Paperback – ISBN: 0747234922
First Sentence: A savage, cold wind had sprung up just after dark.
Simon de Montfort, considered traitor to the king, is dead but his supporters, many of whom are thought to be practitioners of the black arts, still exist and are thought to be associated with the Church of St. Mary le Bow. Lawrence Duket committed murder and took sanctuary in St. Mary’s only to be found hanged as an apparent suicide.
Clerk of King’s Court Hugh Corbett has been summoned by Edward I’s Chancellor Robert Burnell to investigate the death.
That this book is based on an actual event was particularly appealing to me. Doherty makes this period come to life. As we travel around London with Hugh, it felt as natural as were he taking taxi’s in present day.
The story, however, I found weak. The basic plot was good and interesting, but the execution was awkward. The protagonist would uncover information but not share it with the reader, which was annoying rather than enticing. The villain was evident very early in the story so I had little sympathy with Hugh figured it out.
As to the characters, we were given just enough information to understand who they are but I still didn’t feel I knew them. Ranulf, Hugh’s sidekick, is appealing and adds lightness to the story where Hugh was rather unsympathetic.
I liked the book well enough that I will read more, but mainly because of the history.
March 21, 2018
Хю Корбет е кралски писар, избран да разследва мистериозната смърт на убиец, потърсил църковно убежище. Още от самото начало криминалната линия е донякъде подсказана, а от средата вече е ясна развръзката, но акцентът не е върху логическите умения на Хю или върху следите, водещи към разрешаване на убийството, а върху детайлите, описанията на Лондон, толкова назад във времето. Историята е увлекателно разказана.
August 6, 2025
Plot fine, writing style a deterrent
June 7, 2014
After reading Paul Doherty's recent novel The Cup of Ghosts (see blog entry dated 17 June) I was extremely eager to read his first medieval mystery featuring Hugh Corbett. The plot wasn't as exciting as The Cup of Ghosts, the incidental descriptions of medieval life kept the pages turning at a rapid rate. I love this genre, and it's enough to keep me wanting to read the remaining 13 novels in this series.
I'm looking forward to seeing how his style of storytelling develops over the ensuing novels. Hopefully one or two will find their way under the Christmas tree for me...
I'm looking forward to seeing how his style of storytelling develops over the ensuing novels. Hopefully one or two will find their way under the Christmas tree for me...
October 25, 2021
One for the road!!!
Very good read. Its really great when the writer puts history with a back round story. Sir Paul great work an even better mystery
Very good read. Its really great when the writer puts history with a back round story. Sir Paul great work an even better mystery
November 5, 2023
A good read and nice to find an historical novel based on true events.
March 23, 2024
Pleasant historical mystery set in England during the reign of Edward I (1284). Hugh Corbett is a clerk in London who is engaged by the Bishop of Bath & Wells to investigate the suicide of a goldsmith who had claimed sanctuary in the church of St Mary le Bow. Corbett quickly finds that the death could not have been suicide, but his investigation leads him to a strange conspiracy and puts his own life in danger.
The historical setting was enjoyable and full of interesting details that were skilfully integrated into the narrative. The plot was OK but it was a bit predictable (too many clues at once made the culprit rather obvious) -still it had good pace and I was quite content to go along for the ride. This was a decent read that introduced a rather likeable protagonist and I would definitely pick up another in the series for a quick historical read.
The historical setting was enjoyable and full of interesting details that were skilfully integrated into the narrative. The plot was OK but it was a bit predictable (too many clues at once made the culprit rather obvious) -still it had good pace and I was quite content to go along for the ride. This was a decent read that introduced a rather likeable protagonist and I would definitely pick up another in the series for a quick historical read.
November 15, 2025
After reading Ellis Peters’ Cadfael series, one per month, I was feeling a bit bereft. So, I gave this author a chance with his Corbett series. And I’m so glad I did. It’ll be interesting to see how the next books in the series go. This one has the protagonist thinking with his little brain for much of the book, so it’s not so much a mystery for the reader, but instead a voyeuristic view of a smitten clerk and a deep dive into his heart. The historical setting is impeccable and immersive.
July 23, 2015
Donna led this discussion on 03/04/14.
We had a large group -- at least 12 people -- to discuss this and others in the Hugh Corbett series. Most were very impressed with the writing. We wondered whether the grittiness of this book (as compared with the first two we read in this series) was because this was a male author (and the first two were female). King Edward I and his chancellor appear regularly in these books.
We had a large group -- at least 12 people -- to discuss this and others in the Hugh Corbett series. Most were very impressed with the writing. We wondered whether the grittiness of this book (as compared with the first two we read in this series) was because this was a male author (and the first two were female). King Edward I and his chancellor appear regularly in these books.
May 7, 2012
This is the first in a series of medieval mysteries. I've probably read them all except maybe the last one and found them to be quite enjoyable.
I would also recommend the Sorrowful Mysteries of Brother Athelstan by the same author.
I would also recommend the Sorrowful Mysteries of Brother Athelstan by the same author.
October 28, 2024
"Сатанинско сборище" е криминален роман, чието действие е ситуирано в Средновековна Англия. Бих казала, че има от всичко - мрачно тайно общество, вещерски ритуали, похот, заговори, детективско разследване и обрат (очакван за мен).
September 14, 2015
A very interesting read dealing with little-known events in British history. Not your run-of-the-mill cozy mystery. This one deals with treason, black magic & Satanists. Not for the faint of heart
March 16, 2018
3.5* I figured out most of it early on, and the bad guys were obvious. I did like how the author created this mystery from actual documented events.
May 15, 2022
Satan in St. Mary's is the first book in a long series of mysteries featuring Hugh Corbett, a clerk working in the court of King Edward I in 13th century England. The Hugh Corbett series is up to 22 novels, the latest of which, Mother Midnight, came out in 2021. So Mr. Doherty is still producing more mysteries. I don't know if his recent books are good, but I thought that his first novel was a pretty good mystery, and I anticipate looking for the next book in the series. (Doherty, a historian, is remarkably prolific. His Wikipedia page lists literally dozens of books that he has authored. I have read a couple of his medieval mysteries, but I see he has also written mysteries set in ancient Egypt, and that sounds intriguing to me.)
The protagonist of this series is Hugh Corbett, a middle-aged clerk safely toiling in the royal court on routine documents and transcribing, its a decent job that allows Corbett to lead a comfortable life. But then Corbett is instructed by Chancellor Burnell to investigate the suicide of Lawrence Duket, a goldsmith who murdered the creepy Ralph Crepyn and then fled to the church St. Mary Le Bow and claimed sanctuary. Three guards stood watch outside St. Mary's, after looking into the church to ensure Duket was safe. The guards ensured that no one could violate the rules of sanctuary and take revenge for the death of Crepyn. Yet in the morning, Duket is found hanging from a bell-rope tied to a metal bracket. Since no one could have entered the church, it is a clear cut case of suicide, right? Corbett is puzzled why the Chancellor wishes to have him probe Duket's demise. Corbett investigates, and determines that Duket was murdered, though he cannot imagine how the crime was committed, his interviews of the guardsmen leave him convinced that they are telling the truth that no one entered or exited St. Mary's le Bow that night.
The dead moneylender Crepyn was known to frequent an inn called The Mitre, so Corbett dutifully trods there to question the tavern's proprietors. Corbett is stunned to discover that The Mitre is owned by the diminutive but stunningly beautiful Alice atte Bowe. Not only is Alice beautiful, she is also smart. She gives Corbett a flute, which he plays well. Corbett, who had recently lost his wife and son to the plague, finds himself smitten by the attractive Alice, and idles away the days with frequent visits to The Mitre.
A frustrated Chancellor Burnell calls Corbett in for a progress report. Corbett is puzzled - why does the suicide (which he knows was actually a murder) of the goldsmith Duket attract the attention of the Chancellor? Burnell reveals that Crepyn was thought to be part of a rebellious, satan-worshipping movement called the Pentacle that desires to end the reign of King Edward I. These satan worshippers were supporters of Simon de Montfort, a baron who perished in the battle of Evesham in 1258. Montfort maybe dead, but his followers are still plotting to overthrow the royal rule - there are treacherous threats to the kingdom. It is crucial the Corbett unmask these traitors, and foil any plots against the king himself. With renewed purpose, Corbett plunges into the investigation.
Clearly, someone does not like where Corbett's questions are leading. The clerk narrowly escapes an assassination attempt. Realizing that he is vulnerable, Corbett engages the services of a young thief named Ranulf. The rough justice of medieval England had Ranulf scheduled to hang, but Corbett gains a pardon for the young man - while making it clear that if Ranulf fails to obey Corbett's instructions, he will quickly be returned to the hangman. The streetwise Ranulf guides Corbett through the dangerous streets of London.
Doherty does a terrific job of creating a sense of menace and lurking danger. Corbett's life is threatened multiple times in this book, and at other times there is the uneasy feeling of unseen watchers tracking his moves. Violence erupts in several places. Corbett served as a soldier in King Edward's army when he was younger, so he is familiar with weapons and fighting. The mores of medieval England are certainly not same as the prudish Victorian era - both Corbett and Ranulf are interested in the fairer sex.
Doherty's style is fast paced, with a quickly advancing plot. Although there is plenty of comments about the filth, violence and misery of 13th century London, the story doesn't get bogged down in lengthy description. The hardcover edition that I read is just 184 pages long. The only reason I didn't award this book five stars is because it seemed to me that Corbett missed some obvious clues. The next book in the series is The Crown of Darkness, I will have see if it is in the Seattle library system.
The protagonist of this series is Hugh Corbett, a middle-aged clerk safely toiling in the royal court on routine documents and transcribing, its a decent job that allows Corbett to lead a comfortable life. But then Corbett is instructed by Chancellor Burnell to investigate the suicide of Lawrence Duket, a goldsmith who murdered the creepy Ralph Crepyn and then fled to the church St. Mary Le Bow and claimed sanctuary. Three guards stood watch outside St. Mary's, after looking into the church to ensure Duket was safe. The guards ensured that no one could violate the rules of sanctuary and take revenge for the death of Crepyn. Yet in the morning, Duket is found hanging from a bell-rope tied to a metal bracket. Since no one could have entered the church, it is a clear cut case of suicide, right? Corbett is puzzled why the Chancellor wishes to have him probe Duket's demise. Corbett investigates, and determines that Duket was murdered, though he cannot imagine how the crime was committed, his interviews of the guardsmen leave him convinced that they are telling the truth that no one entered or exited St. Mary's le Bow that night.
The dead moneylender Crepyn was known to frequent an inn called The Mitre, so Corbett dutifully trods there to question the tavern's proprietors. Corbett is stunned to discover that The Mitre is owned by the diminutive but stunningly beautiful Alice atte Bowe. Not only is Alice beautiful, she is also smart. She gives Corbett a flute, which he plays well. Corbett, who had recently lost his wife and son to the plague, finds himself smitten by the attractive Alice, and idles away the days with frequent visits to The Mitre.
A frustrated Chancellor Burnell calls Corbett in for a progress report. Corbett is puzzled - why does the suicide (which he knows was actually a murder) of the goldsmith Duket attract the attention of the Chancellor? Burnell reveals that Crepyn was thought to be part of a rebellious, satan-worshipping movement called the Pentacle that desires to end the reign of King Edward I. These satan worshippers were supporters of Simon de Montfort, a baron who perished in the battle of Evesham in 1258. Montfort maybe dead, but his followers are still plotting to overthrow the royal rule - there are treacherous threats to the kingdom. It is crucial the Corbett unmask these traitors, and foil any plots against the king himself. With renewed purpose, Corbett plunges into the investigation.
Clearly, someone does not like where Corbett's questions are leading. The clerk narrowly escapes an assassination attempt. Realizing that he is vulnerable, Corbett engages the services of a young thief named Ranulf. The rough justice of medieval England had Ranulf scheduled to hang, but Corbett gains a pardon for the young man - while making it clear that if Ranulf fails to obey Corbett's instructions, he will quickly be returned to the hangman. The streetwise Ranulf guides Corbett through the dangerous streets of London.
Doherty does a terrific job of creating a sense of menace and lurking danger. Corbett's life is threatened multiple times in this book, and at other times there is the uneasy feeling of unseen watchers tracking his moves. Violence erupts in several places. Corbett served as a soldier in King Edward's army when he was younger, so he is familiar with weapons and fighting. The mores of medieval England are certainly not same as the prudish Victorian era - both Corbett and Ranulf are interested in the fairer sex.
Doherty's style is fast paced, with a quickly advancing plot. Although there is plenty of comments about the filth, violence and misery of 13th century London, the story doesn't get bogged down in lengthy description. The hardcover edition that I read is just 184 pages long. The only reason I didn't award this book five stars is because it seemed to me that Corbett missed some obvious clues. The next book in the series is The Crown of Darkness, I will have see if it is in the Seattle library system.
May 15, 2022
Well, the outline of the events here DID happen, so there's that. And Doherty's expertise gives us a first-class look at how it might have unfolded and what challenges there might have been.
In this 1986 book, though, Doherty isn't yet a mystery writer. The rollout of the plot is clunky, and we are left with several "Wha-at?" moments.
Why would Corbett fall for Alice, and more importantly, why would she fall for him?
At the end "she knew he would return" - why? I'd bet he wouldn't.
He gets a whacking great clue - - when we have met exactly one of each so far ... but the penny doesn't drop.
And that fight scene at the end - right out of a 1950 pulp western.
Don't get me started on Hubert, who might as well have worn a tabard reading "I AM A BADDIE"
And yet -- I will look for the next one because it *could* be good.
In this 1986 book, though, Doherty isn't yet a mystery writer. The rollout of the plot is clunky, and we are left with several "Wha-at?" moments.
Why would Corbett fall for Alice, and more importantly, why would she fall for him?
At the end "she knew he would return" - why? I'd bet he wouldn't.
He gets a whacking great clue - - when we have met exactly one of each so far ... but the penny doesn't drop.
And that fight scene at the end - right out of a 1950 pulp western.
Don't get me started on Hubert, who might as well have worn a tabard reading "I AM A BADDIE"
And yet -- I will look for the next one because it *could* be good.
March 1, 2024
I really enjoyed the time/place descriptions in this book which felt authentic. The author did a fine job of putting the reader into that period as it was detailed but not cumbersome.
I'm still undecided about Hugh. He seemed to bumble along through most the book and I had one of those insta-love Harlequin moments when he fell in love with one of the characters seemingly after only seeing her a handful of times.
Apparently the gist of the story was based on true events which also made it interesting and I'll be sure to look up some of the characters to get more information about them.
All in all though this was a quick, interesting read and I'll look forward to others in the series which I luckily have already.
I'm still undecided about Hugh. He seemed to bumble along through most the book and I had one of those insta-love Harlequin moments when he fell in love with one of the characters seemingly after only seeing her a handful of times.
Apparently the gist of the story was based on true events which also made it interesting and I'll be sure to look up some of the characters to get more information about them.
All in all though this was a quick, interesting read and I'll look forward to others in the series which I luckily have already.
June 21, 2018
Cheesy fun.
January 15, 2025
Clearly the author researched this medieval period and the story is concocted based around a factual event. However, as a mystery book, it was too easy to figure out who the primary evil doers were, so that was a disappointment.
April 2, 2020
This was a re-read. This book got me hooked on Paul Doherty books. Satan in St. Mary's is the first Hugh Corbett novel. This is historical fiction that does not romanticize medieval life...it is brutal and ugly. Doherty also uses actual events snd people in his books, which make them even more intriguing, to me.
March 22, 2018
Having exhausted my previous series of medieval noir mysteries I have turned to an older series, that recalls my former enthusiasm (Crispin Guest). And there are many parallels, with an investigator with a difficult past and his knavish apprentice. The time period for this series is Edward I, somewhat earlier, and the characters at this point are less endearing. We get some of the domestic details of their lives together, and hunger isn't an issue for Hugh, and Ranulf is a good deal older. So let me dispense with the comparisons, and discuss the book.
Hugh Cobbett is a clerk who investigates for King's Court, having been awarded the position for his service in fighting the Welsh rebels. He acquires an aide, Ranulf, who was in line to be hanged for theft by paroling him. Ranulf is a lusty lad, but Hugh is getting his pleasures from an innkeeper, Alice. They investigate the death of a man in Saint Mary Le Bow, proclaimed to be a suicide, but actually the victim of murder. He was assisted in his departure by a coven of witches who have treason and rebellion on their minds. About a third of the way through I wondered about the historical accuracy of this, but I was assured when I read the author's biographical information on the back flap of the dust cover. He helpfully provides the text of his inspiration at the end of the book, so one is reassured. I found the intersection between unconventional religion and rebellion interesting after I got over my credulity problems. I enjoyed the fact that our 'detective' has a past, his wife and daughter dead of plague, his soul seared by the War on the Welsh, but his body left living if scarred.
The author is a historian who makes one error, but it is biological, so I suppose he can be pardoned. Ravens (and crows) don't have yellow beaks, except on the cartoons.
Spoiler Alert: It's sad that he can't keep Alice, but then she has rooked him from the start, by giving him a flute that touches the memories of his dead family. I wonder if her beauty can quite quench the many objectionable things she has done in his heart, but gladly this is not how the plot works out.
Hugh Cobbett is a clerk who investigates for King's Court, having been awarded the position for his service in fighting the Welsh rebels. He acquires an aide, Ranulf, who was in line to be hanged for theft by paroling him. Ranulf is a lusty lad, but Hugh is getting his pleasures from an innkeeper, Alice. They investigate the death of a man in Saint Mary Le Bow, proclaimed to be a suicide, but actually the victim of murder. He was assisted in his departure by a coven of witches who have treason and rebellion on their minds. About a third of the way through I wondered about the historical accuracy of this, but I was assured when I read the author's biographical information on the back flap of the dust cover. He helpfully provides the text of his inspiration at the end of the book, so one is reassured. I found the intersection between unconventional religion and rebellion interesting after I got over my credulity problems. I enjoyed the fact that our 'detective' has a past, his wife and daughter dead of plague, his soul seared by the War on the Welsh, but his body left living if scarred.
The author is a historian who makes one error, but it is biological, so I suppose he can be pardoned. Ravens (and crows) don't have yellow beaks, except on the cartoons.
Spoiler Alert: It's sad that he can't keep Alice, but then she has rooked him from the start, by giving him a flute that touches the memories of his dead family. I wonder if her beauty can quite quench the many objectionable things she has done in his heart, but gladly this is not how the plot works out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2013
I'm torn. I did like the story but did I really like the story? I'm thinking this book is a 3.5.
I read this right on the heels of reading Doomsday Book . While Doomsday Book took place 100 years in the future regarding Satan in St Mary's , they did fit together nicely.
I did fall into the plot quickly and moved right along in its current. I only slowed down once and the assignable cause more than likely was my own: I was out fairly late the proceeding night. Either Paul Doherty had been planning to turn Hugh Corbett into a series right from the start or he was just a little clumsy with his character development. The main conflict ended a few chapters before the end of the story, which was fine; nevertheless, the shield created by my willing suspension of disbelief did shimmer a little. For me, this distraction is where the other half point that would have made this a four was lost.
This is a fun read and if you are unlike me and do indeed have an attention span larger than an apricot, can finish it in one sitting.
Recommended. I would definitely read this again. I am curious to see what happens to Hugh in The Crown in Darkness . Also this is not a bad way to spend one's time waiting for the next Matthew Shardlake novel to be written. There will be another Matthew Shardlake novel; right, C.J. Sansom?
I read this right on the heels of reading Doomsday Book . While Doomsday Book took place 100 years in the future regarding Satan in St Mary's , they did fit together nicely.
I did fall into the plot quickly and moved right along in its current. I only slowed down once and the assignable cause more than likely was my own: I was out fairly late the proceeding night. Either Paul Doherty had been planning to turn Hugh Corbett into a series right from the start or he was just a little clumsy with his character development. The main conflict ended a few chapters before the end of the story, which was fine; nevertheless, the shield created by my willing suspension of disbelief did shimmer a little. For me, this distraction is where the other half point that would have made this a four was lost.
This is a fun read and if you are unlike me and do indeed have an attention span larger than an apricot, can finish it in one sitting.
Recommended. I would definitely read this again. I am curious to see what happens to Hugh in The Crown in Darkness . Also this is not a bad way to spend one's time waiting for the next Matthew Shardlake novel to be written. There will be another Matthew Shardlake novel; right, C.J. Sansom?
February 6, 2017
I guess I had read this once before, ten years ago; I had deja vu several times while reading it this time. My previous Goodreads review was one word: "Fun!" I also originally gave it four stars. I didn't come away from the mystery this time with the same impression this time; I'm downgrading four stars to three, and "Fun!" to "Engaging." The Satanic Cult - I don't think this a spoiler, because Satan is in the title, and the cult's coven gathers in the first chapter - was one of the lamer parts of the book for me; what I found engaging was the description of London during King Edward I's time - dirty, dangerous, dank, dark, disgusting. I also though Hugh Corbett and his sidekick Ranulf were strong detectives, although the whodunnit was definitely easy to solve (of course, I'd read the book before, so maybe the whodunnit had stuck subconsciously in my head?) . Doherty lays the trail with plenty of red herrings though. As historical murder mysteries go, this one was pretty good.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews