About this deal
Chris Nickson brilliantly evokes the feeling of time and place in this story of corruption and murder. 1361: Orphaned by the Black Death, all John possesses are the tools that belonged to his father, a carpenter, and an uncanny ability to work wood. To prove his innocence John must help the coroner in his search for the killer, a quest that brings him up against some powerful enemies in a town where he is still a stranger and friends are few. His travels bring him to Chesterfield, where he finds work erecting the spire of the new church. But no sooner does he begin than the master carpenter is murdered and John himself becomes a suspect.
Reviews
Chloe Smith
Length short but it works for the author's style. Not just of local interest, though admittedly having the Peak District on our door step adds a level of relatability, creating more of an atmosphere for the mystery. Never had this problem.
amy
Normally takes me a while to get into a book. Got it as a Christmas present, loved being able to picture some of the places and pubs locally.
Paul Rodgers
Hooked me right from the start. Well written Alan. Can't wait for the next one. Love how the story is told bouncing between different points of view.
PATRICK
A real page-turner with some intriguing loose ends for the detective in us all to ponder. The author has clearly explored all avenues each leading to more intrigue.
marek kaczmarczyk
Great book. Very clever. What an excellent read.
Angevin
The author also gives a snapshot of social history, shining a light on the murders, the investigation and the attitudes of the time. I've now read pottery cottage and the crooked spire. On both occasions I've finished them in 48hrs. I read this book in a day and found it absolutely riveting.