Dark Fire

A Matthew Shardlake Mystery

By: C. J. Sansom

Narrated by: Steven Crossley

Length: 18 hrs and 53 mins

Publisher's summary

Winner of the CWA Ellis Peters Historical Dagger Award, Dark Fire revisits acclaimed master of historical fiction C. J. Sansom's colorful and rapier-witted lawyer, Matthew Shardlake.

Set in 1540, this beguiling tale of murder and mayhem is set against a rich backdrop of medieval London. Here, hunchbacked Matthew Shardlake is called upon to investigate the peculiar case of a young woman accused of murder.

©2004 C. J. Sansom (P)2008 Recorded Books, LLC

Believable yet enveloping

I had read Dissolution, so I understand the narrator's disillusionment with Henry VIII's religious practices. The book provides brief background so it can be read stand-alone. At times, the names of characters can be a little confusing as to who's who, but it'll make sense as you go along. All-in-all, a story that makes you want to stay in your car.

Well done!

I listened to the first book in the series, Dissolution, which I enjoyed, but this one is much better. The main character is well developed and as the story progressed, I found it hard to put down. I will definitely get more books from this author!

Outstanding murder mystery

This is the second book in the Matthew Shardlake series written by CJ Sansom and read by Steven Crossley. I thoroughly enjoyed Dark Fire with all its twists and turns. Written in the first person, the story is presented from the main character's perspective as he uses his wit and intellect to overcome his physical handicap and unravel the clues as he and his sidekick try to resolve the mystery before time runs out. Matthew works for Oliver Cromwell who is fighting for his life in this book. While Matthew's character is fictional, Cromwell's is not and how the story ends for Cromwell aligns with the actual historical perspective. I guess the moral of that subplot is be careful who you align yourself with.

The historical backdrop is fascinating and is pretty accurate from what I've researched, during the reign of Henry the Eighth. It was definitely a dark period in England's history and the author uses that as a backdrop for the story as it unfolds (shudder).

I enjoyed Dark Fire much more than Dissolution, the first book in the series. Though there is some connection to the first book, it is not really necessary to begin with it to make sense of this sequel. The reader, Steven Crossley, is simply outstanding. He is polished and makes each character distinct. He is the perfect fit for this series.

It is a different genre than I usually listen to but I've thoroughly enjoyed this series and plan to continue with the third book.

Twists and Turns

What made the experience of listening to Dark Fire the most enjoyable?

The flow with the characters. The author kept the story going with just the right amount of suspense.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

Just when I thought I had the villain set in my mind, up pops another angle to make me think.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

"Don't let your 'friends' out of your sight"

Any additional comments?

I started listening to this author from the 'recommendations' page, I am glad to have given the series a shot. I like mystery crimes stories and this series fits the bill.

Wonderful novel for preteen and up.

I love historical fiction and CJ Sansom is masterful at relating the historical events from the eye level perspective.

Excellent

The second in the Shardlake series did not disappoint. The era and the author's note are two of the things I enjoy most.

Fascinating

Great use of mysterious and ancient weapon of war to tie together Tudor reign of Henry VIII and the increasingly tremulous hold of Cromwell’s to his position as Henry’s counselor.
As always, Sansom uses his talent to create an historical tale interlacing both fictional and real characters of Tudor England. Even having long ago read this period of history, the story kept me entranced and anxious to find out what happens at the end. Well done!

I always learn something!

History was not a favorite subject in school, but when I can learn from well-researched historical fiction I'm so pleased.
I am delighted to listen to the 3rd in the Shardlake series.

this was fun

I enjoyed this as much for the picture of 13th century England as I did for the story
The narrator was terrific and the story detailed enough to hold one's interest without
getting lost in extraneous material.

Must Read Series

What made the experience of listening to Dark Fire the most enjoyable?

The twists and turns of the plot. The continuation of characters from the first novel. Again, Steven Crossley's performance.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Matthew Shardlake, no matter how hard or difficult or just plain herculean the task given him, Matthew gives it his all. He has a very sharp and just mind.

What does Steven Crossley bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

He animates the characters, gives them depth. Accurately pronounces words that I have never heard in used in speech.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

As the plot begins to unfold Matthew is forced to work closely with John Barack a trusted informant of Lord Cromwell. As Barack sees how Matthew operates and Matthew sees the value of Barack's street-sense the two actually reach a synergy and while grudgingly at first develop a respect for each other.