The Hanging Tree

A Historical Mystery

De: Irina Shapiro

Narrado por: Jess Nahikian

In 1640, Alys Bailey was accused of witchcraft and sentenced to hang. Today, Alys is said to haunt Lockwood Hall, the Tudor manor house where she died.

When Nicole Rayburn travels to Lockwood Hall and begins to research Alys’s story for a new book, she discovers startling irregularities in Alys’s case. Nicole’s suspicions mount as every answer leads to more questions. What really happened to Alys? And what became of her son, who disappeared the day she was hanged? Could it be that Alys’s death was the result of a well-planned conspiracy, or is there another, less obvious answer? And who is trying to sabotage Nicole's efforts by stealing her work?

As Nicole delves deeper into Alys’s life, with the help of a handsome crime writer and a history-obsessed vicar, she comes to realize that “fake news” has been around for centuries, and that everyone has secrets. Once she finally learns Alys’s, Nicole’s life will never be the same.

Perfect for fans of Susanna Kearsley, Barbara Erskine, and Wendy Webb.

©2020 Merlin Press LLC (P)2022 Irina Shapiro

A bit sappy and formulaic

The narrator sounds as though she is trying very hard to keep her BBC English just so, which gets old.

I was quite taken with the characters.

I started reading, but in the middle I switched to audible and listening to it being read to me which really drew me in. I loved it. A beautiful lovestory.

What a trip!

Great characters and an amazing story! Had me gripped from start to finish. I definitely recommend this read!

The historical aspect of the book

The twist in the book was fantastic! My husband who doesn’t even pay attention to the books when I play them at night, said he needs to relisten because it was such a good book and he missed parts!

Another Knockout by Shapiro

First, I have listened to just about everything that Audible has available by Irina Shapiro. She is one of my very favorite authors of historical fiction. That said, when she offered this book for free for the exchange of a review, I jumped at the chance to enjoy it. It did not disappoint! The story of Alys Bailey was tragic but engrossing. I found myself walking extra miles every day just to see how the story was going to unfold. You know when the story opens that Alys dies by being accused of witchcraft but by whom and why is part of the mystery. As Nicole Rayburn begins to investigate what happened to Alys, she stumbles upon other mysteries and even a new love interest. The story kept my attention the entire time and I loved all the twist and turns Shapiro inserted to keep you on your toes. Just when you think you know what’s going to happen, she shifts and throws you off. This is a fun story (albeit tragic when learning about Alys) and a great listen! If I hadn’t gotten this for free for a review, I’d gladly spend a credit on it- it would be well worth it! I can’t wait for The Devil’s Den! I love that Shapiro does these series so so well and hope she keeps Nicole’s story going. She is as likable a character as Quinn Allenby of the Echos of the Past series, which is one of my all time favorite series!!