A Champion to Root For


I have devoted this blog to my process of writing, and that often includes looking at successful writers for inspiration, even though they may not write books like the mine.

Historical mysteries are among my favorite sub-genres. The historical mystery satisfies two jones at once: a puzzle to solve and a lesson in history. One of the best historical mystery series I have read are by Jeri Westerson. She calls them “Medieval Noir,” and they have all the qualifying elements of noir.

Crispin Guest is her protagonist. Having been stripped of his knighthood by Richard II, he must make his living in a less than hospitable 14th century London. Using his intelligence and skills, he has become known as The Tracker, because they didn't have detectives back then. Not unlike Sam Spade, Guest has his flaws and his lost loves. Still, though betrayed by his aristocratic cohorts and the legal system, Guest never loses his sense of honor.

In Blood Lance, due out in a couple of months, his investigation revolves around London Bridge. In fact, the story begins with someone “jumping” off the bridge from one of the many shops. Being a chivalrous man, Guest jumps in to save him. When Guest and his side-kick/apprentice, Jack Tucker, realize the man was murdered before plummeting into the Thames, the plot races toward a remarkable climax. If you ever wanted to know what it feels like to wear armor, or what it's like to joust for your life, you'll not be disappointed.

I learn something in every book in the series. Like all of the series, a holy relic is involved, and Guest is beginning to wonder why these valuable items keep coming into his life. In the back of all her books, Westerson explains the significance of each relic as well as the politics and intrigues of the era. The attention to detail never fails.

During his adventures, Guest bumps elbows with many historical figures. His friend and counselor, Abbot Nicholas of Westminster Abbey fame, Geoffrey Chaucer, Henry Bolingbroke, etc. Even the Sheriffs of London are authentic persons of the era.

As a writer, what I take away from the Guest series is a tight plot, memorable characters in exciting situations and satisfying outcomes. I have trouble putting these books down and have, more than once, stayed up reading long into the night. I like spending time with Crispin Guest and Jack Tucker, and I root for them when the odds catch up with them. Another element to pay attention to is research. Thorough research ensures a satisfied following, and obviously Westerson knows her medieval London.

Read them. For enjoyment and for a study in constructing mysteries. And learn something about history while you're at it.

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