Relics of the Dead

Mistress Of The Art Of Death 3

By: Ariana Franklin

Narrated by: Diana Bishop

On hearing of this momentous discovery, King Henry II demands evidence that the legendary Arthur is dead. So he calls upon his Mistress of the Art of Death, anatomist Adelia Aguilar, to examine the bones. But someone doesn’t want the skeletons identified – and is prepared to kill in order to prevent it…

©2009 Ariana Franklin (P)2011 Random House Audio Go

Intriguing mystery, fascinating historical context

I love this series - this is the third of four, and I almost don't want to listen to the next, knowing that it's the last. The characters are strong and intriguing, the historical setting and context well explained without being over explained. Henry II is the Plantagenet King of England, and Adelia, a female doctor from Salerno reluctantly agrees to conduct one more investigation into some mysterious deaths for him. Evil outlaws and evil mother-in-laws, mad monks and lepers all play a part in this fine fine mystery. It's also beautifully read, with even the minor characters, men and women from different regions and levels of society, given voices that are distinctive and convincing without falling into irritating stereotype.