A Trail of Ink

Hugh De Singleton’s Chronicles, Book 3

By: Mel Starr

Narrated by: Steven Crossley

Some valuable books have been stolen from Master John Wyclif, the well-known scholar and Bible translator. He calls upon his friend and former pupil, Hugh de Singleton, to investigate. Hugh’s investigation leads him to Oxford where he again encounters Kate, the only woman who has tempted him to leave bachelor life behind, but Kate has another serious suitor. As Hugh’s pursuit of Kate becomes more successful, mysterious accidents begin to occur. Are these accidents tied to the missing books, or to his pursuit of Kate?

One of the stolen books turns up alongside the drowned body of a poor Oxford scholar. Another accident? Hugh certainly doesn’t think so, but it will take all of his skills to prove.

©2010 by Mel Starr (P)2020 by Blackstone Publishing

Fascinating Medieval Book

These books by Mel Star are very interesting. I sew as I listen and enjoy them very much!

Marvelous, atmospheric medieval mystery

This is the third book in this wonderful series, this time with a bit of romance. I have high hopes for the next novels in the series when the wonderful Kate will contribute her wit and intelligence to solving the mysteries which the indefatigable Hugh de Singleton must solve as Bailiff of Lord Gilbert's domain in Bampton, a village on the outskirts of Oxford. A treasure of easy listening pleasure.

Another great story

I am thoroughly enjoying this series. The historical detail is exceptional. The only problem I have is that the people orchestrating the mischief seem to escape justice, particularly Sir Simon, but also the monk, Michael of Longridge. One attempted murder and the other put in motion events that lead to murder. The young scholar who possessed a book that had been stolen was in fear of hanging for the crime, as were other thieves of that day. A reference to the outcomes for these men would have been welcomed. Perhaps they will be referenced in the next book? (I’ll learn soon as I’m about to start it). Overall, I am very much enjoying Hugh de Singleton’s narratives, as well as the excellent narrator who gives him a voice, Steven Crossly.

Matters of the Head and the Heart

Bailiff and Surgeon Hugh De Singleton is commissioned by Master John Wyclif, well known scholar to find 22 books which were stolen from him. As he travels to Oxford in search of the missing books, he meets Kate Caxton in her father's stationers shop. Soon Hugh is dealing with matters of the heart, as well as well as searching for missing books. But Kate has another vying for her affections, which adds even more intrigue to Hugh's endeavors. An excellent entry into the series, which is filled with atmospheric details of the era. A satisfying listen all round.

Fun listen, wonderful narration, very interesting historical descriptions.

I love this series! the narrator is wonderful the story is interesting, especially how the author weaves in the details of the age in which it takes place, and there's not one swear word in the whole thing or in any of the series so far. I am very much looking forward to listening to the rest of them.