Blood Libel: A Matthew Cordwainer Medieval Mystery (Matthew Cordwainer Medieval Mysteries Book 2) Kindle Edition

If you like medieval English history, you may find this an interesting whodunit. Matthew Cordwainer is a King's coroner who lives in York. Faced with murders, kidnapping and fraud, he has a tough time unraveling all the threads in this episode. I enjoyed the read, but grew very tired of the author having him 'Snort' on every other page

Matthew Cordwainer is the King's Coroner in 13th century York. He is called to investigate the murder of a Jewish money lender. It seems that some of the most powerful men in York may be behind the murder. Friends try to discourage him from investigating but he is determined to get at the truth.This is a very interesting novel with good dialogue and well fleshed out characters. There are a few subplots that add to the reading enjoyment. The descriptions are well done and one can get the feeling of what it must have been like to be in York, in Febuary in the 14th century. This was a very enjoyable book

This second book is better, both in writing, character, but also very much a story of the times between Christians and Jews...a little unbelievable that the brother of the murdered Jewish money lender would have involved a Christian coroner, the anguish is hinted at. The actions do lead to more mayhem, but there are so many interesting sub plots that the author does tie together...I liked the glimpses of the daily life, the governance and the business. People are still somewhat despicable, but that’s who we are.The coroner is actually pretty old for his time, but wants to be active and serve. I like that he struggles with Latin, instead of being portrayed as a scholar.

I read all of these. I love these period mysteries. I've read almost all of the ones I could find- and all of the books in this series. I read mysteries of all kinds- but I love unusual locations (like the Shetland series) or interesting time periods- like this one. I like that the protagonist is older. It's a fun perspective- and he's such a nice character. I like the supporting characters as well- and the loving descriptions of the town and of the implements of the time.

I very much enjoyed the first Matthew Cordwainer mystery, but this one is even better! The characters continue to develop and I’m finding myself becoming quite fond of them. The mystery begins with the murder of a Jewish money lender, but in addition to the suspense revolving around the solving the crime the author expands the story into a broader look at the prejudice and inequality of the time; paralleling many of the same issues we are still struggling with in today’s world. I found the ending particularly poignant and it left me wanting to know what’s next for these engaging characters.

This book is a gentle fictional treatment of the horrendous conditions Jews suffered in England during this period. England was kinder to Jews than most of Europe. It is an interesting exposition of the Coroner's position in English law and society. It is very well plotted with well developed, mostly sympathetic characters. It also includes reference to the power and structure of the guilds. I enjoyed it very much and read it in one sitting. Can recommend to people who like historical mysteries.

The second medieval mystery by Ms. Lionarons, a medieval scholar, continues the story of Matthew Cordwainer, a former Mercer turned King’s Coroner. The story moves through the city of York, and shows us the internal rivalries and politics of the merchants and citizens of that city. The murder of a Jewish moneylender brings Cordwainer into personal danger as he investigates that death and others. Like her first mystery novel, Blood Libel ends in an unforeseen but satisfying way, and leaves you wishing for another installment.

I really enjoyed this book, it's even better than the first one of the series. Matthew Cordwainer is an endearing old coroner, who takes his job very seriously thus getting himself in trouble. Set in one of my favorite cities, York, the story flows easily and the characters are well portrayed. I will definitely continue with the series.

Matthew Cordwainer the coroner of York as well as a pillar of the community particularly when injustice is concerned. Thomas is his strong hand as mobility and age begin to take there toll. Murder and rioting are consequences of the Mercers Guild officers.

Murder, mayhem, rioting and fire starters, all woven into the storyline of greed and intolerance and abductions like putting a jigsaw together without the picture. Well worth the effort and there are many more adventures and mysteries for Matthew Cordwainer to solve thank goodness.

An excellent, well crafted and ingenious tale which maintains interest and momentum all through. Even better than the first in the series. Matthew Cordwainer is quite a remarkable coroner.

The depiction of the Jewish element I found too overdone. I am only on the edge of likingMatthewCordwainer

Too much twas, twere, twaddle! If the historical period could be framed by this simple method, we’d all be expert novelists. A pity, as the plots are tolerable if loose.