Mel Starr is a good writer who manages to create a believable, English medieval world. I found the pace of this book slightly faster than his others - I think because it is set in a busy city (Oxford) - and the action is on the go throughout. I also like the way he has built his story up in stages; initially our hero, Hugh, goes to Oxford to find some missing books (only 22 of them, but in those days that was more than most educated scholars would collect in a lifetime) and try to win himself a bride at the same time. Complications start to set in quite early and it's not long before murder and violence raise their ugly heads.If I have a criticism (and it's a small one) the villains are bad throughout - they might as well wear black and a sign saying "I'm a bad 'un". Despite that, this is an easy, enjoyable read that I would recommend wholeheartedly. Better than the second book. But I think I'm getting tired of these. The mysteries get a tad confusing, and there is NO romance. Hugh has found a comely and quite bright maiden in this story and as it ends, they are betrothed. I read chapter one of the fourth story which was included at the end of this, and it begins with them being 3 months wed. So I didn't get to see the wedding! Bummer. Not working for me.
What do You think about Mürekkep İzi (2013)?
Another excellent adventure from Mel Starr! Loved it!
—Addis
