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Mathilde of Westminster #1
The Cup of Ghosts
By 1322, Mathilde of Westminster was considered the finest physician in London. But in her years as lady-in-waiting to Princess Isabella, she was drawn into the murky politics of the English court, where sudden, mysterious death was part of the tapestry of life. Many years later, Mathilde looks back and chronicles her turbulent life. With her sharp, suspicious intellect ready to distinguish between a fatality and an unnatural death, Mathilde is confronted by a host of chilling murders. The source of these horrors is the fierce political rivalry between Philip of France and Edward of England. This manifests itself in a series of gruesome killings, one of which actually took place during Edward II's Coronation, when a knight of the Royal Household, Sir John Baquelle was crushed to death.
416 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2005
116 people are currently reading
510 people want to read
About the author
Paul Doherty
236 books609 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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 4, 2025
I really enjoyed this historical mystery set in the court of King Edward II of England. Narrated by his wife Isabella's head mistress, Mathilde. We get to know Isabella, daughter of Philip, and princess of France, soon to be crowned Queen of England.
The history is that Edward II had a favorite Piers Gaveston whom he bestowed wedding gifts meant for Isabella. He ignored her at her coronation to spend time with Gaveston. Everyone is after the crown one way or another. There are several murders and Mathilde is at the center of it with her knowledge of medicine and humour based medieval treatments. People did not like their king's behavior, and this book does a good job showing how distaste for the king built up over his career. The true history is so full of intrigue and this book does the history justice, while providing worthwhile fictional elements. This is the first book in this trilogy.
The atmosphere was eerie and mysterious. The historical details were well-blended into the story. There was a nice use of Medieval poetry in the chapter headings.
The pacing slowed down a bit for me in the second half, and was less atmospheric, but I still really enjoyed.
I'm so excited to continue this. I know how the story ends in history, but there is a lot that is unknown about who did it and I'm looking forward to seeing how this author ties it all together! Want to read more by this author
Next up, book 2 and 3:
The Poison Maiden
The Darkening Glass (Mathilde of Westminster Trilogy, Book 3): Murder, mystery and mayhem in the court of Edward II
The history is that Edward II had a favorite Piers Gaveston whom he bestowed wedding gifts meant for Isabella. He ignored her at her coronation to spend time with Gaveston. Everyone is after the crown one way or another. There are several murders and Mathilde is at the center of it with her knowledge of medicine and humour based medieval treatments. People did not like their king's behavior, and this book does a good job showing how distaste for the king built up over his career. The true history is so full of intrigue and this book does the history justice, while providing worthwhile fictional elements. This is the first book in this trilogy.
The atmosphere was eerie and mysterious. The historical details were well-blended into the story. There was a nice use of Medieval poetry in the chapter headings.
The pacing slowed down a bit for me in the second half, and was less atmospheric, but I still really enjoyed.
I'm so excited to continue this. I know how the story ends in history, but there is a lot that is unknown about who did it and I'm looking forward to seeing how this author ties it all together! Want to read more by this author
Next up, book 2 and 3:
The Poison Maiden
The Darkening Glass (Mathilde of Westminster Trilogy, Book 3): Murder, mystery and mayhem in the court of Edward II
July 5, 2020
Paul Doherty is one of my favorite authors. I completely dig his Hugh Corbett, Sir Roger Shallot, Kathryn Swinbrooke, and Brother Athelstan series, so I was eager to dive into this new (for me) series.
It's especially captivating because the protagonist is based on a very skilled and wise 14th century female physician, Mathilde of Westminster. In the story, she's an elder reflecting on her past.
I'm always pleasantly pleased with Doherty's representation of competent historical female figures, their passions, struggles, accomplishments, challenges, and strengths.
In The Cup of Ghosts, he masterfully weaves medieval medicine, multiple murders, murky royal plots, political corruption, and cunning young women into a captivating and enlightening tale with an unanticipated and satisfying conclusion.
some favorite passages (no spoilers):
"Hindsight makes wise men of us all and only a fool, or a liar, ascribes to such wisdom." page 96
"Visions of hell! I have witnessed many, but that first journey across the swollen, tempest-tossed Narrow Seas was a true descent into Hades. Gusty gales, crashing waves, the ship rising and falling as it fought the seething sea." page 171
It's especially captivating because the protagonist is based on a very skilled and wise 14th century female physician, Mathilde of Westminster. In the story, she's an elder reflecting on her past.
I'm always pleasantly pleased with Doherty's representation of competent historical female figures, their passions, struggles, accomplishments, challenges, and strengths.
In The Cup of Ghosts, he masterfully weaves medieval medicine, multiple murders, murky royal plots, political corruption, and cunning young women into a captivating and enlightening tale with an unanticipated and satisfying conclusion.
some favorite passages (no spoilers):
"Hindsight makes wise men of us all and only a fool, or a liar, ascribes to such wisdom." page 96
"Visions of hell! I have witnessed many, but that first journey across the swollen, tempest-tossed Narrow Seas was a true descent into Hades. Gusty gales, crashing waves, the ship rising and falling as it fought the seething sea." page 171
October 24, 2021
**Should Read as 4.5 Stars!**
Read this book in 2009, and its the 1st volume of the "Mathilde of Westminster" mini-series, from the author, Paul Doherty.
Mathilde was in the year AD 1322, the finest physician in London.
But as lay-in-waiting to Princess Isabella, who married Prince Edward II, and enter a world of murky politics and mysterious deaths.
In this tale events will take her back to the years AD 1307/1308, and the gruesome killing of Sir John Baquelle, a knight of the Royal Household, at the Coronation of Edward II as King of England in January AD 1308.
Behind this murder is a fierce political rivalry between Edward I and King Philip IV of France that will play a very important part in this thrilling and intriguing mystery, and where Mathilde of Westminster will use her wits and cunning in her attempt to solve this murder at the court of King Edward I of England.
Highly recommended, for this is a fantastic opening of this wonderful mini-series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Very Exciting Mathilde of Westminster Begin"!
Read this book in 2009, and its the 1st volume of the "Mathilde of Westminster" mini-series, from the author, Paul Doherty.
Mathilde was in the year AD 1322, the finest physician in London.
But as lay-in-waiting to Princess Isabella, who married Prince Edward II, and enter a world of murky politics and mysterious deaths.
In this tale events will take her back to the years AD 1307/1308, and the gruesome killing of Sir John Baquelle, a knight of the Royal Household, at the Coronation of Edward II as King of England in January AD 1308.
Behind this murder is a fierce political rivalry between Edward I and King Philip IV of France that will play a very important part in this thrilling and intriguing mystery, and where Mathilde of Westminster will use her wits and cunning in her attempt to solve this murder at the court of King Edward I of England.
Highly recommended, for this is a fantastic opening of this wonderful mini-series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Very Exciting Mathilde of Westminster Begin"!
January 25, 2022
Four stars an that's because I like the author. It would of been a three.
I was hoping for more about this Queen an her doings in London. It would of been a nice little three book series. Not a bad read.
I was hoping for more about this Queen an her doings in London. It would of been a nice little three book series. Not a bad read.
March 20, 2010
I would give this book 2-1/2 stars if possible, because for me, it fell in between "okay" and "liked it". As the above blurb outlines the story, I won't waste space repeating it; I will say I generally enjoy Paul Doherty's various historical mystery series (those set in medieval England more so than those set in ancient times), but sometimes find his characters one-dimensional and unrealistic. At times, he seems more interested in setting an authentic street scene (which he does very well, but it almost becomes formulaic at times), and his characters stride on and off like stage players, delivering stiff speeches at each other rather than having real conversations; this sometimes makes it difficult to care about what happens to them! And let's face it, knowing the history of Isabella and Edward's reign (and Edward's dismal end), the Mathilde of Westminster series seems doomed to be VERY dark, so I don't know if I will read books 2 and 3 in this series.
May 8, 2022
Hmmm. It says I read this in 2018 (wondered why some of it seemed familiar...🤣) . This time it took me only 3 days instead of 5 days........Really Great Book, Loved It
March 20, 2021
The Cup of Ghosts by Paul Doherty
Reviewed March 19, 2021
The Cup of Ghosts is the first book in a three-book series featuring Mathilde of Westminster, a physician and lady-in-waiting to Queen Isabella and focuses on the corruption, intrigue and murder at the court of Edward II. The other two are The Poison Maiden and The Darkening Glass, both of which are waiting on my e-reader.
The author states in his notes at the end of the book (something I always love in a historical novel) that Mathilde is based on real life Mathilde of Westminster, explaining the women were commonly contributing to medieval medicine, and this was only checked when “that great misogynist” (as he called Henry VIII) passed an Act of Parliament in 1519. But enough of the background; let’s get on with the story!
The story opens with Mathilde, now around 80 years of age, living her remaining days as an anchorite and recalling the early years of her life – a life heavy with sin, as Father Guardian describes it. Mathilde was not always a religious.
She was born Mathilde de Ferrers, the daughter of an apothecary who taught her about herbs. When her father dies, she is sent to Paris to live with her uncle, Reginald de Deyncourt, a Physician-general of the Temple hospitals in Paris, who encourages her studies. For eight years, life is good but all that changes on Thursday, October 12, 1307. That day her uncle comes home, obviously agitated, and sends Mathilde to stay with his friend, Simon de Vitray. The next day, King Philip destroys the order of the Templars and executes many of its members, including Uncle Reginald.
It is decided that the best place to hide is at the French court, and Mathilde de Ferrers changes her name to Mathilde de Clairbon and becomes a dame de chambre to 13-year-old Princess Isabella, who is betrothed to the English king, Edward II. Mathilde finds Isabella to be a sharp-witted young woman who has been subjected to abuse much of her young life, and the two form an immediate bond.
The French court is rife with plots and intrigue, and it is from here that Mathilde hopes to be able to exact her revenge on those responsible for the death of her uncle…but along the way, there will be other deaths to deal with. Simon de Vitray and his household are slaughtered. Two English envoys are poisoned. One advisor falls to his death, while another is crushed when a pavilion collapses following the coronation of Edward and Isabella. Are these deaths connected, and if so, in what way?
The Cup of Ghosts is a story filled with plots and conspiracies. Edward of England and Philip of France are playing the great game – but just what is it that each one expects from the other? From the start, Isabella recognizes that her husband’s great love is his favorite, Piers Gaveston. She’s all right with this; after all, she is Edward’s queen and is happy to have escaped from the French court. But things take a dark turn when during a private supper Gaveston murders a man he accuses of being responsible for his mother’s death in front of her, and she realizes she has only traded in one unpleasant situation for another. Meanwhile, attempts are made on Mathilde’s life, but why? What has she seen or done that she’s unaware of?
The Cup of Ghosts is a thrilling historical mystery, and I’m looking forward to reading the next two book and continuing Mathilde’s story with Queen Isabella.
Reviewed March 19, 2021
The Cup of Ghosts is the first book in a three-book series featuring Mathilde of Westminster, a physician and lady-in-waiting to Queen Isabella and focuses on the corruption, intrigue and murder at the court of Edward II. The other two are The Poison Maiden and The Darkening Glass, both of which are waiting on my e-reader.
The author states in his notes at the end of the book (something I always love in a historical novel) that Mathilde is based on real life Mathilde of Westminster, explaining the women were commonly contributing to medieval medicine, and this was only checked when “that great misogynist” (as he called Henry VIII) passed an Act of Parliament in 1519. But enough of the background; let’s get on with the story!
The story opens with Mathilde, now around 80 years of age, living her remaining days as an anchorite and recalling the early years of her life – a life heavy with sin, as Father Guardian describes it. Mathilde was not always a religious.
She was born Mathilde de Ferrers, the daughter of an apothecary who taught her about herbs. When her father dies, she is sent to Paris to live with her uncle, Reginald de Deyncourt, a Physician-general of the Temple hospitals in Paris, who encourages her studies. For eight years, life is good but all that changes on Thursday, October 12, 1307. That day her uncle comes home, obviously agitated, and sends Mathilde to stay with his friend, Simon de Vitray. The next day, King Philip destroys the order of the Templars and executes many of its members, including Uncle Reginald.
It is decided that the best place to hide is at the French court, and Mathilde de Ferrers changes her name to Mathilde de Clairbon and becomes a dame de chambre to 13-year-old Princess Isabella, who is betrothed to the English king, Edward II. Mathilde finds Isabella to be a sharp-witted young woman who has been subjected to abuse much of her young life, and the two form an immediate bond.
The French court is rife with plots and intrigue, and it is from here that Mathilde hopes to be able to exact her revenge on those responsible for the death of her uncle…but along the way, there will be other deaths to deal with. Simon de Vitray and his household are slaughtered. Two English envoys are poisoned. One advisor falls to his death, while another is crushed when a pavilion collapses following the coronation of Edward and Isabella. Are these deaths connected, and if so, in what way?
The Cup of Ghosts is a story filled with plots and conspiracies. Edward of England and Philip of France are playing the great game – but just what is it that each one expects from the other? From the start, Isabella recognizes that her husband’s great love is his favorite, Piers Gaveston. She’s all right with this; after all, she is Edward’s queen and is happy to have escaped from the French court. But things take a dark turn when during a private supper Gaveston murders a man he accuses of being responsible for his mother’s death in front of her, and she realizes she has only traded in one unpleasant situation for another. Meanwhile, attempts are made on Mathilde’s life, but why? What has she seen or done that she’s unaware of?
The Cup of Ghosts is a thrilling historical mystery, and I’m looking forward to reading the next two book and continuing Mathilde’s story with Queen Isabella.
August 29, 2018
Très documenté, un roman situé entre la cour de France et celle d'Angleterre centré sur la période du mariage de Isabelle, fille de Philippe le Bel et Edouard II roi d'Angleterre sous fond de manigances politiques, de massacres des Templiers, de meurtres et d'intrigues partisanes, une période donc particulièrement agitée propices à maintenir le lecteur en haleine mais cela n'a pas fonctionné pour moi
Malheureusement, les longues descriptions, des monuments, des habits, des rues etc ont fini par me lasser J'avais envie d'un roman pas d'un guide touristique (je suis un peu dur là mais bon à chacun son ressenti) et Mathilde ne m'a pas particulièrement convaincu
HUM HUM : la notation assez sévère est peut-être du au fait que j'ai un peu trop lu de romans de M. DOHERTY ces derniers jours...
Malheureusement, les longues descriptions, des monuments, des habits, des rues etc ont fini par me lasser J'avais envie d'un roman pas d'un guide touristique (je suis un peu dur là mais bon à chacun son ressenti) et Mathilde ne m'a pas particulièrement convaincu
HUM HUM : la notation assez sévère est peut-être du au fait que j'ai un peu trop lu de romans de M. DOHERTY ces derniers jours...
December 25, 2025
Складно читалась ця книга, бо сюжет рухався повільно, а описів місць, їжі, одягу, ритуалів, гімнів, тогочасних знань медицини було багато. Воно і не дивно, бо автор за цією темою (Едуард ІІ та Ізабелла Французька) писав докторську, тож ці деталі з першоджерел, — недарма ж він вивчав все це 😅 Assassin with midnight soul — оце я не вгадала, але якщо чесно і не намагалась, бо деталізацію періоду обробляла 🫠 Наступні частини трилогії планую теж читати.
May 31, 2014
I had a dificult time with this book. Although a quick and easy read, it seem at first, Doherty can't be bothered to write in detail, which makes for dry reading that is hard to visualize or 'lose yourself in'. The whole time I read this book, I was very aware I was reading a book. I much rather have a book sweep me up and take me in to the story and time period it is set in.
As a lover of historical fiction, I felt that the characters didn't feel 'believable' for the period, that the mystery was somewhat predictable, and Mathilde was too powerful a character for the time.
I did not get a real sense that Mathilde was revered as a physician. It seemed as if she had only watched her uncle and treated one patient! The princess spoke of her skills as a physician, but never saw her perform her services. it was if the teenaged princess was just sticking up for a friend, rather than believing in her skills.
As lady-in-waiting to the princess/queen, the princess would never pour her drinks or dress herself! That would have been Mathilde's job! Nor would Mathilde ever be invited to privately converse with the king, unless chosen as a lover.
Mostly I was confused by the amount of power Mathilde had in the story. Being allowed to wander the city without constant escort is outstanding and speaking to men of high status (especially without being spoken to first) would have been unheard of. This character seems more likely to be tried as a witch in 1322 rather than follow a successful path like the protagonist in this story.
I would have enjoyed this book far more if it was more historically accurate.
As a lover of historical fiction, I felt that the characters didn't feel 'believable' for the period, that the mystery was somewhat predictable, and Mathilde was too powerful a character for the time.
I did not get a real sense that Mathilde was revered as a physician. It seemed as if she had only watched her uncle and treated one patient! The princess spoke of her skills as a physician, but never saw her perform her services. it was if the teenaged princess was just sticking up for a friend, rather than believing in her skills.
As lady-in-waiting to the princess/queen, the princess would never pour her drinks or dress herself! That would have been Mathilde's job! Nor would Mathilde ever be invited to privately converse with the king, unless chosen as a lover.
Mostly I was confused by the amount of power Mathilde had in the story. Being allowed to wander the city without constant escort is outstanding and speaking to men of high status (especially without being spoken to first) would have been unheard of. This character seems more likely to be tried as a witch in 1322 rather than follow a successful path like the protagonist in this story.
I would have enjoyed this book far more if it was more historically accurate.
June 7, 2014
Set in the early 1300s during the reign of Edward II, this is the first in a series by Paul Doherty about Mathilde of Westminster, the lady-in-waiting to Princess Isabella.
Mathilde escapes the persecution of the Templars, assumes a new identity and is placed in the service of Princess Isabella. An arranged marriage between Princess Isabella and Edward II sees them move from France to England. Mathilde has an in depth knowledge of herbal remedies and by 1322 was considered the finest physician in London.
This book was full of suspense, political intrigue and violence, coloured by Royal decadence - definitely a recipe to keep the pages turning quickly.
I am a huge fan of historical fiction, although this is the first time I've come across this author, who has written 14 books set in medieval times (which I can't wait to read).
I absolutely loved this book, and can't wait for the next one in the series.
Mathilde escapes the persecution of the Templars, assumes a new identity and is placed in the service of Princess Isabella. An arranged marriage between Princess Isabella and Edward II sees them move from France to England. Mathilde has an in depth knowledge of herbal remedies and by 1322 was considered the finest physician in London.
This book was full of suspense, political intrigue and violence, coloured by Royal decadence - definitely a recipe to keep the pages turning quickly.
I am a huge fan of historical fiction, although this is the first time I've come across this author, who has written 14 books set in medieval times (which I can't wait to read).
I absolutely loved this book, and can't wait for the next one in the series.
May 20, 2014
Paul Doherty isn't always successful with female protagonists. Mathilde is the exception. Based on the medieval female physician Matilda of Westminster, the character is well rounded and a joy to read.
Set during the reign of Edward II, Mathilde is the maid de chambre of Isabella, who came down to history as the notorious 'She-Wolf of France'.
Members of Edward II's secret council are in France arranging the marriage of Isabella to Edward, and someone is killing them off. They look like accidents at first, but when they get to England and the killings continue, the realisation that these are murders hits home.
This set against both the royal wedding and the destruction of the Templar order. Both have far reaching affects on the characters.
This was supposed to be the first book of an ongoing series, but, alas, Paul has only written three books and it doesn't look like there will be any more.
Set during the reign of Edward II, Mathilde is the maid de chambre of Isabella, who came down to history as the notorious 'She-Wolf of France'.
Members of Edward II's secret council are in France arranging the marriage of Isabella to Edward, and someone is killing them off. They look like accidents at first, but when they get to England and the killings continue, the realisation that these are murders hits home.
This set against both the royal wedding and the destruction of the Templar order. Both have far reaching affects on the characters.
This was supposed to be the first book of an ongoing series, but, alas, Paul has only written three books and it doesn't look like there will be any more.
June 10, 2012
I still can't get enough of Doherty's novels,they get better and better.And this one is no exception.Intriguing plot,historical accuracy and intelligent characters,all mixed up with political and personal relationships to form one great novel.
February 24, 2017
The first few pages sow curiosity, then it become a little dull and slow, and then towards the end it picks up momentum. A little elaborate, but what are historical mysteries if they are not!
Somehow entertaining and a little tedious at the same time.
Somehow entertaining and a little tedious at the same time.
March 13, 2012
I think the idea of telling his version of the story of Edward II and Isabella through the memoirs of Mathilde of Westminster is absolutely genius. A thoroughly riveting read.
April 23, 2019
It took me a while to adapt to this Mathilde of Westminster story. Compared with a lot of the Hugh Corbert series, this novels is trying to be quite literary. Opens in France with Philip the Fair 's clampdown on the Knight Templars , the themes of power politics, assassination, spying emerge. Enjoyable enough. But as the body count increases, sometimes wonder where the novel is going.
Mathilde is skilled at medicine, can handle herself in a fight, survives, an overall interesting character. But feel at times that she is just a bit too 'liberated' . There are a couple of literary devices that get frustrating. Seems that no criticisms of the Knight Templars can be permitted. It would make a more interesting novel if it was discovered that a member of the Order hadn't led an unblemished life. Furthermore, interesting to see how Piers Gaveston re-emerges in this novel. P.C.Doherty has already featured Gaveston in the Hugh Corbert novel 'Prince of Darkness' . The claim that Gaveston's mother was burnt at the stake for sorcery again appears- its great for historical novelists but seems yet to be verified by evidence.
Mathilde is skilled at medicine, can handle herself in a fight, survives, an overall interesting character. But feel at times that she is just a bit too 'liberated' . There are a couple of literary devices that get frustrating. Seems that no criticisms of the Knight Templars can be permitted. It would make a more interesting novel if it was discovered that a member of the Order hadn't led an unblemished life. Furthermore, interesting to see how Piers Gaveston re-emerges in this novel. P.C.Doherty has already featured Gaveston in the Hugh Corbert novel 'Prince of Darkness' . The claim that Gaveston's mother was burnt at the stake for sorcery again appears- its great for historical novelists but seems yet to be verified by evidence.
June 6, 2019
I liked this book....I must have, because I just finished the second in the series and am reading the 3rd!
Paul Doherty does an outstanding job of researching medieval England; the story is populated with real people, and even those who are not, seem to be.
Edward II is king, although given his friendship with a commoner, Gaveston and his treatment (or perceived treatment) of England's nobles means that he has little money, few friends, and many enemies who would like someone else to be on the throne....and the King of France is busily sowing dissent. Young Isabella is betrothed (and later married) to Edward in an effort to stem the tensions between England and France but in reality so that the King of France can eventually rule England through Princess Isabella, and ultimately any son she may have. The troubles he stirs up lead to murder and mayhem. Mathilde, a physician, lady in waiting and close confidant to Isabella investigates the crimes while Isabella steps through the minefields of English politics.
This is truly an enjoyable book, not least because of the history and the research done by Doherty, the great writing, and the wonderful characters.
Paul Doherty does an outstanding job of researching medieval England; the story is populated with real people, and even those who are not, seem to be.
Edward II is king, although given his friendship with a commoner, Gaveston and his treatment (or perceived treatment) of England's nobles means that he has little money, few friends, and many enemies who would like someone else to be on the throne....and the King of France is busily sowing dissent. Young Isabella is betrothed (and later married) to Edward in an effort to stem the tensions between England and France but in reality so that the King of France can eventually rule England through Princess Isabella, and ultimately any son she may have. The troubles he stirs up lead to murder and mayhem. Mathilde, a physician, lady in waiting and close confidant to Isabella investigates the crimes while Isabella steps through the minefields of English politics.
This is truly an enjoyable book, not least because of the history and the research done by Doherty, the great writing, and the wonderful characters.
November 1, 2017
Entertaining.
Interesting take on Edward II. Story got slow at times, Mathilda is an interesting character, and looking forward to more books in the series. I have read several of Doherty's historical mysteries,and the rating may be a grade against his own work. I have read several I could not put down, this was not one of those.
Interesting take on Edward II. Story got slow at times, Mathilda is an interesting character, and looking forward to more books in the series. I have read several of Doherty's historical mysteries,and the rating may be a grade against his own work. I have read several I could not put down, this was not one of those.
March 25, 2019
Interesting that the last book I read, ‘The little Friend’, I also gave 3 stars to. Both for opposing reasons. TLF was beautifully written, full of details and deadly dull, this book was underwritten, and not beautiful at all but so interesting that I finished it in 2 days and I would read more of this author.
July 31, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It's set in a period of history (Edward II) that I'm not massively familiar with and the central character is an intelligent, scientific (for the time), woman who has a character that's well written and complex and I'm not quite sure if I like her but I'm intrigued. I have already bought the second in this series and I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.
April 20, 2020
Murder Galore!
Paul Doherty is a great author. He does a really good job describing the time period. I didn't know who the murderer was up to the end. Author had a tight plot that delivered. I Look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Paul Doherty is a great author. He does a really good job describing the time period. I didn't know who the murderer was up to the end. Author had a tight plot that delivered. I Look forward to reading the rest of the series.
October 12, 2024
Historical Fiction.
Paul Doherty is one of my favorite authors.
I am especially enjoying the Mathilde of Westminster series because this is the place and time of his doctoral thesis. Over the years of reading his and other books, I have found that his history is very accurate.
Paul Doherty is one of my favorite authors.
I am especially enjoying the Mathilde of Westminster series because this is the place and time of his doctoral thesis. Over the years of reading his and other books, I have found that his history is very accurate.
April 23, 2021
Finished it but wasn't impressed by the writing. There seemed to be a lot of lists.
October 21, 2022
An easy read, not inspiring enough to make me want to read the rest of the series
December 12, 2022
Well written and well plotted but I can't say I enjoyed it. Edward II and Isabella aren't very likable characters.
March 12, 2023
Excellent.
Can't wait for Book Two...any second now...!
Really love the complexity and full bodied nature of this tale...like a fine wine!
Can't wait for Book Two...any second now...!
Really love the complexity and full bodied nature of this tale...like a fine wine!
September 8, 2008
By 1322, Mathilde of Westminster was considered the finest physician in London. But in her years as lady-in-waiting to Princess Isabella, she was drawn into the murky politics of the English court, where sudden, mysterious death was part of the tapestry of life. Many years later, Mathilde looks back and chronicles her turbulent life. With her sharp, suspicious intellect ready to distinguish between a fatality and an unnatural death, Mathilde is confronted by a host of chilling murders. The source of these horrors is the fierce political rivalry between Philip of France and Edward of England. This manifests itself in a series of gruesome killings, one of which actually took place during Edward II's Coronation, when a knight of the Royal Household, Sir John Baquelle was crushed to death.
Paul Doherty's book was nothing like I imagined. I think in end it read more like an historical fiction story than a murder mystery. I think the most interesting part is how well Doherty knows the period he is writing about and how he makes the day's political machinations very much a part of his story. Sometimes you have a feel of the period but here you really are in the period with it's main characters, political decisions, templar's persecution and arranged marriages. And all this is an integral part of the plot. I liked how he gave plausible explanations for Isabella and Edward's behaviour in the beginning of their wedding.
I found the murder part in itself a bit confusing, there are a lot of characters, a lot of deaths and there's some lack of urgency for it's resolution. I was unprepared for how young Mathilde was going to be in the beginning and it seemed a bit unbelievable that she would know so much and understand the political intrincacies so well. Isabella, who in the beginning seems to be the stronger personality ends up dependent from Mathilde as her only friend. However the set of the period is so well done that I want to continue reading almost for it alone, I want to know more about that period in history and more about Isabella and how Doherty explains what went wrong with her wedding. There's also a portuguese character that has already been introduced as a villain so the lure to continue is irresistible.
Grade: B
Interesting review http://edwardthesecond.blogspot.com/2...
Paul Doherty's book was nothing like I imagined. I think in end it read more like an historical fiction story than a murder mystery. I think the most interesting part is how well Doherty knows the period he is writing about and how he makes the day's political machinations very much a part of his story. Sometimes you have a feel of the period but here you really are in the period with it's main characters, political decisions, templar's persecution and arranged marriages. And all this is an integral part of the plot. I liked how he gave plausible explanations for Isabella and Edward's behaviour in the beginning of their wedding.
I found the murder part in itself a bit confusing, there are a lot of characters, a lot of deaths and there's some lack of urgency for it's resolution. I was unprepared for how young Mathilde was going to be in the beginning and it seemed a bit unbelievable that she would know so much and understand the political intrincacies so well. Isabella, who in the beginning seems to be the stronger personality ends up dependent from Mathilde as her only friend. However the set of the period is so well done that I want to continue reading almost for it alone, I want to know more about that period in history and more about Isabella and how Doherty explains what went wrong with her wedding. There's also a portuguese character that has already been introduced as a villain so the lure to continue is irresistible.
Grade: B
Interesting review http://edwardthesecond.blogspot.com/2...
August 12, 2007
THE CUP OF GHOSTS (Historical-France/England-1300s) – G+
Doherty, Paul – 1st in series
Headline, 2005- UK Hardcover – ISBN 0755328736
*** Mathilde, trained as a physician by her father, finds her life in jeopardy and uprooted. With the Pope’s declaration of Templer’s as heretics, she is taken to her uncle for safety just before her father is executed. The only way for her uncle to keep her safe is for her to become lady in waiting to Princess Isabella and, after Isabella’s marriage to Edward II of England, escape to England as part of the Royal household.
*** This is as much a novel of French and English history as a mystery. The attention to period detail is exacting. The story is told in retrospect by Mathilde and it is interesting to see Mathilde use her training to uncover causes of death during this period. That is not to say, however, that it lacks for danger, intrigue, and bodies galore; almost too much so, for I didn’t feel I ever really had time to connect with the character. However, if turbulent history and court intrigue fascinate you, this is the book for you.
Doherty, Paul – 1st in series
Headline, 2005- UK Hardcover – ISBN 0755328736
*** Mathilde, trained as a physician by her father, finds her life in jeopardy and uprooted. With the Pope’s declaration of Templer’s as heretics, she is taken to her uncle for safety just before her father is executed. The only way for her uncle to keep her safe is for her to become lady in waiting to Princess Isabella and, after Isabella’s marriage to Edward II of England, escape to England as part of the Royal household.
*** This is as much a novel of French and English history as a mystery. The attention to period detail is exacting. The story is told in retrospect by Mathilde and it is interesting to see Mathilde use her training to uncover causes of death during this period. That is not to say, however, that it lacks for danger, intrigue, and bodies galore; almost too much so, for I didn’t feel I ever really had time to connect with the character. However, if turbulent history and court intrigue fascinate you, this is the book for you.
October 21, 2013
This was OK but it was one of those stories where there were so many murders it took me a while to work out which one was the 'important one' I was supposed to have paid most attention to! It also read like a historical novel where the history was more important that the plot or the characters, and it had the 'setting up the detective so that I can follow it up with lots more books' feel about it. So overall, I am surprised anybody survived the 13th century given the constant stabbings, poisonings, drownings, throwing off walls etc that seem to have taken place, and there must have been people who were happy and liked and trusted one another but they do not seem to have found their way into this sort of story. Mathilde of Westminster seemed highly improbable - not so much her knowledge or role as confidante to the princess - but the way that she managed to walk in and out of city gates, mortuaries, churches, and set about asking leading questions, all with a little flash of her mistress' seal.Still, if you like your medieval whodunnits then this is probably as good as any.
August 20, 2007
This is a new historical mystery series by an author I like enormously. This book wasn't quite up to par, but interesting enough that I will read the next one when it comes out in paperback. The lead character is a lady in waiting (and well educated healer)to Queen Isabella, wife of Edward II of England. Court intrigue and unpleasant characters abound! My biggest problem with the book is that Isabella simply does not behave or sound like a 13/14 year old, even if she is very bright and has grown up in the midst of plots and an awful family.
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