Rick Robinson posted a review of Sharan Newman’s short stories here. As a result, I located a copy of Sharan Newman’s first Catherine LeVendeur mystery, Death Comes As Epiphany, and read it in one sitting. I’m a fan of medieval mysteries like Ellis Peter’s Brother Cadfael series and Michael Jecks’ murder novels. Sharan’s Catherine is a young woman who loves books and scholarship which leads her family to send her to the Convent of Paraclete. But a manuscript Catherine has worked on is missing and could be part of a plot to discredit their patron, Peter Abelard. Catherine is sent to recover the manuscript. But then there’s a murder. Catherine’s investigation is hampered by the religious debates of 12th Century Paris. Newman gives an authentic portrayal of the religious controversies of those times (I’ve never seen so much Latin in a mystery novel!). The story moved quickly and I enjoyed the entire novel. I’ve already ordered the next book in the series. GRADE: B+
Even though I did like the Cadfael series I prefer my historical mysteries to be 19 or 20 Century. I have read some “older” short stories including a couple of Newman’s and I’m more likely to read the collection Rick reviewed.
Jeff, like you I prefer my historical mysteries to be set in the 18th or 19th Centuries. But, once in a while, I’ll read a medieval mystery for a change of pace.
I liked this one a lot when I read it, mostly for the character(s). Newman really knows her stuff. I’ve read the first 5 in the series and they are all good.
Rick, you’re right about Sharan Newman knowing her stuff. Her first book was very authentic. I’m reading her second book, THE DEVIL’S DOOR, right now. Love it!
Haven’t heard much from Patti lately, is she out of town?
Rick, I think Patti and Phil are in New York City.