The Straw Men

Starred review from January 21, 2013
Doherty’s gift for blending historical intrigue and brilliantly constructed, impossible crimes has never been better displayed than in his 12th whodunit featuring Brother Athelstan (after 2012’s Bloodstone). In 1381, England is controlled by its regent, John of Gaunt, uncle to the young Richard II. Gaunt’s authority is under assault from the shadowy Upright Men, who lead an organization known as the Great Community of the Realm. Amid this turmoil, the man of God and perceptive criminal investigator looks into a number of London murders, including a man somehow shot in the face by a crossbow in a locked room and the savage slaughter of an entire family. The reek of the filthy streets is almost palpable, and the vivid descriptions enhance a classic fair-play plot that will appeal to John Dickson Carr fans. With dozens of books to his credit, Doherty continues to impress. Agent: David Headley, David Headley Literary Agency (U.K.).