Customer Reviews

The Soul Slayer (Paul Doherty Historical Mysteries)

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Wow! This was one of the best books I have ever read.

I'm a big fan of PC Doherty's historical mysteries, so in one sense I am a biased reviewer. This book was different from much of his series fiction however. He retains his excellent ability to make the reader feel as if he is living the historical period, capturing the details, both pleasant and gritty. He also nicely builds suspense as usual. What is different is that this not historical mystery but historical horror.

The fantasy/horror element had a very catholic flavor. (Or at least, a flavor that seemed very catholic from my protestant viewpoint.) That is to say the 'rules' that the fantastic followed were compatible with the religious beliefs of Elizabethan England and Europe when the story occurs, and the struggles between catholic and protestant churches of the time is very much an element of the story.

The characterizations and relationships of the main characters are very convincing. The romantic subplot that accompanies the main adventure/horror plot is well done, and nicely reinforces the main plot.

I cannot say enough how much I approved of this book. If you're familiar with Doherty, this is a great book to read. If you aren't, this is a great book to make his aqquaintance with...

Paul Doherty is the consummate professional when it comes to writing historical novels. I for one do not know how he can be so prolific with his offering of books and yet make sure that each of them is well researched. Whether they be 13th, 14th, or fifteenth century they are always true to the period. He also writes about Ancient Egypt and Alexander the Great. Paul Doherty has the rare talent of making you feel as though you are there, be it medieval England, or battling with Alexander. The sounds and smells of the period seem to waft from the pages of his books.

Poor Rebecca Lennox, the eighteen-year-old daughter of a former priest is regarded as cursed by the local villagers. The reason for their fear is the fact that not only has Rebecca a cleft palate but she has the gift of second sight. She find solace in the statue of the Archangel St. Michael and prays to him constantly within the wall of her old parish church.

But then a young Catholic priest arrives in the village and it seems that the poor girl has final found a confidant. The priest is not repelled by her infirmity and his gentleness reminds the girl of her beloved statue. But then things change when a new parson comes to the village. He is more interested in the black arts than practising religion. But he finds redoubtable opponents in the young priest Michael and Rebecca. There will certainly be a price to pay for someone . . .