5 Star Review
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Editorial Book Review:
By Celeste Hann
You can go to the dark and interesting world of Oxfordshire in the 1300s with The Whispering Dead of Rewley Abbey. This is where mystery and history meet. I was most interested in how the story created a complete world. From the detailed descriptions of monastic life to the tension of a society dealing with new scientific ideas and mysticism, the abbey and the community around it felt very real. I couldn't put the book down because it strikes a balance between the interest of a well-written murder mystery and rich historical backdrop.
The story does a great job of showing how complicated the time was, with its religious unrest, class differences, and the clashing ideas of faith and reason. I liked that it wasn't just about solving the riddle; it was also about the characters' personal problems, like grief, ambition, and the search for redemption. It was fascinating to see the investigation led by such a strong and unconventional team. Their methods felt authentic to the time while still holding the suspense and thrill of a modern mystery novel.
The pacing is exceptional; just when I thought I’d figured out the next step in the investigation, a twist or revelation would send the narrative spiraling in a new direction. The suspense gradually increases, leading to an unexpected and wonderful conclusion. Nevertheless, there are still enough unresolved issues from the conclusion to make readers eagerly await the series' next installment.
What I appreciated most was the author’s ability to intertwine factual history with compelling fiction seamlessly. The backdrop of Rewley Abbey is not just a setting but a living, breathing part of the story. It’s clear that the author deeply researched this period, and it pays off in the vivid, almost cinematic quality of the storytelling. The characters' moral quandaries and atmospheric details are what keep readers interested long beyond the last page, even while the mystery itself is captivating.
For anyone who loves historical mysteries steeped in rich detail and nuanced characters, The Whispering Dead of Rewley Abbey is a must-read. It’s not just a whodunit; it’s a profound exploration of human nature, faith, and the pursuit of truth in an age of uncertainty.
About the Author
Peter Stephenson
Dr. Peter “Doc” Stephenson is entering the realm of historical fiction after a 50-year career in technology during which he authored or contributed to over 20 books on computing, computer investigation, and computer security topics.
In addition to writing, Dr. Stephenson has been playing blues music for 70 years and it is through performing, and after earning a PhD, that he was given the appellation, “Doc” by the owner of one of his performance venues.
Having visited Oxford several times, it was only natural that he would set his tales in Oxfordshire. His academic experience in Oxford Town sealed the deal and resulted in his first novel, The Whispering Dead of Rewley Abbey.
Dr. Stephenson lives with a 15-year-old dog and two Savannah cats on a pond in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
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