The Tinner's Corpse

Crowner John is summoned to investigate the murder of a tin miner. The victim worked for Devon's most powerful and successful mine owner, Walter Knapman. There seems, to be only one motive - to sabotage Walter's business. But the tinners have their own laws, and they are none too pleased at Crowner John's interference. How on earth can Crowner John sort all this out when his own life is in turmoil?

©2002 Bernard Knight (P)2003 W F Howes Ltd

The Cranky Crowner

So refreshing to meet an unapologetically flawed character. Crowner John, the man in black, cheats on his wife and his mistress but defends the right of the accused criminal to fair treatment. He shouts, he stomps, he hates his in-laws. You've got to love it. I've been reading a lot of historical mysteries and this may be my new favorite. The author easily weaves medieval history, culture and vocabulary into the story. The settings are gritty and real. I gave it a 4 instead of a 5 only because I didn't like the ending; I felt the author took the easy way out. That said, I will be visiting Crowner John again soon.

Always a pleasure!

There are few authors that whet my appetite for medieval intrigue, but Bernard Knight is one of them. This was a great read 20 years ago, and an even better listen today.