A Just and Upright Man

The James Blakiston Series, Book 1

By: R J Lynch

Narrated by: Deborah Greenfield

Shortlisted for the Historical Novel Society's 2015 Indie Prize.

It is 1763. James Blakiston wants to solve the mystery of old Reuben Cooper’s murder. He wants to forget the loss of fortune and position. Most of all, he wants to ignore his yearning for the beautiful and spirited Kate Greener. That's not too much to ask. Is it?

©2014 John Lynch (P)2020 John Lynch

Critic reviews

"This novel is on a par with Thomas Hardy's meaty offerings of country life and the hardships of the less well off: those beholden to the super-rich of their day." (Francine Howarth, Romance Reviews Magazine)

The northern accent did me in

Perhaps if the male voice hadn’t been so flat, I might have been able to adjust to the accent. I made it to Chapter 12 and gave up. I appreciated to range of characters and was relieved there were no Dukes or silly virgins. The historical detail rang true and the main characters had depth. This book probably would have been easier for me to stick with as an ebook or physical volume.

Good Story Beautifully Read

A Just And Upright Man provides an exceptional look into 18th century England with plenty of detail into everything from living conditions of peasants, property law, criminal law,marriage customs, and laws and customs regarding women, much of which can be disturbing to modern sensibilities. The characters are well-drawn, even if the mystery is predictable and anti-climactic. The narrator, Deborah Greenfield, is amazing. She has such a range of voice that I felt I was in the same room with the characters. I had no problem understanding the authentic northern accent. It is beautifully read.