Quick Take

It is late summer in the year 1270 and England is as weary as its aging king, Henry III. Although the Simon de Montfort rebellion is over, the smell of death still hangs like smoke over the land. Even in the small priory of Tyndal on the remote East Anglian coast, the monks and nuns of the Order of Fontevraud long for a return to tranquil routine. Their hopes are dashed, however, when the young and inexperienced Eleanor of Wynethorpe is appointed their new prioress over someone of their own choosing. Nor are Eleanor's own prayers for a peaceful transition answered. Only a day after her arrival, a brutally murdered monk is found in the cloister gardens, and Brother Thomas, a young priest with a troubled past, arrives to bring her a more personal grief. Now she must not only struggle to gain the respect of her terrified and resentful flock but also cope with violence, lust and greed in a place dedicated to love and peace.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Wine of Violence (Medieval Mystery, #1)

Introduction

"Wine of Violence" by Priscilla Royal is a captivating historical fiction novel set in the late 13th century England. The story takes place in the small priory of Tyndal on the remote East Anglian coast, where a young and inexperienced Prioress named Eleanor of Wynethorpe is appointed to lead the community. However, her arrival is met with resistance and tension, as she must navigate the challenges of gaining respect and dealing with violence, lust, and greed within the peaceful monastery. The murder of a monk adds to the complexity of the situation, as Brother Thomas, a young priest with a troubled past, arrives to assist her.

About Priscilla Royal

Priscilla Royal, the author of "Wine of Violence," holds a degree in world literature from San Francisco State University. With a passion for medieval literature, history, mysteries, and fiction with lesser violence, Royal brings her expertise to this captivating novel. She resides in Northern California and is a member of both the California Writers Club and Sisters in Crime.

Analysis of Views

Engaging Characters: Readers praise the well-developed characters in "Wine of Violence." Each personality is complex and realistic, with gifts and faults that make them relatable and interesting. The protagonists, Eleanor and Thomas, along with the nuns and monks of the priory, are analyzed as they search for a killer and try to make their way in a place that didn't ask for their arrival.
Accurate Historical Details: The book's setting is accurately portrayed, transporting readers to medieval times with vivid descriptions of food, clothing, mindsets, and surroundings. The author's attention to historical research shines through in the details, making the story feel authentic and immersive.
Engaging Mystery: While some readers found the mystery predictable, others appreciated the well-written and not-too-predictable plot. The mystery adds depth to the story and keeps readers engaged until its resolution.
Insight into Monastic Life: Readers enjoy the insight into monastic and convent life provided by the book. They appreciate the glimpse into daily routines, relationships, and challenges faced by those living within a religious community during this time period.
Modern References: A few readers found modern references in the book jarring or anachronistic. They felt that certain attitudes towards homosexuality were out of place in the 13th century setting, where sodomy was considered a capital crime and believed to endanger the immortal soul.

Reasons for Recommendation

Well-Written Characters: Readers recommend "Wine of Violence" for its well-written characters who are complex and relatable. They appreciate the depth and nuances of each personality, which makes them engaging and compelling.
Authentic Historical Setting: The book's accurate portrayal of medieval England and its monasteries is highly praised by readers. They find it immersive and enjoyable to explore the historical details presented by the author.
Engaging Mystery: While some readers found the mystery predictable, others appreciated its well-crafted plot and how it adds depth to the story. The mystery keeps readers engaged until its resolution.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Anachronistic References: A few readers found certain modern references in the book jarring or out of place in the 13th century setting. They felt that certain attitudes towards homosexuality were not in line with the historical context of the time period.

Conclusion

"Wine of Violence" by Priscilla Royal is a captivating medieval mystery novel set in late 13th century England. The book's well-developed characters, accurate historical setting, engaging mystery, and insight into monastic life make it a recommended read for fans of historical fiction and medieval mysteries. However, some readers found certain modern references out of place and felt that certain attitudes towards homosexuality were anachronistic for the time period depicted. Overall, "Wine of Violence" offers an immersive reading experience that transports readers to a distant era while keeping them engaged with its well-crafted plot and complex characters.