I really enjoyed this series. The story is interesting. The time is interesting. The characters are intense and colorful. This is one of those mysteries that gives you all the clues, but doesn't make it easy. I've read all the books in the series and enjoyed them all equally.
I've read several of the negative reviews for this book and found them somewhat disturbing. Lots of complaints about the description of child murders. If you are of a sensitive nature why would you read a book about child murders in the first place? The murders are not, in any way, glorified. The protaganist is as horrified as the reader, which is as it should be. And lots of complaints about the violence - well, there is violence, of course. This was an incredibly violent period in history. The Crusades were bloody and brutal. Individual life was not accorded the value we give it today - quite the opposite. The Crusaders themselves were a plague of death where ever they went. Christians were far less compassionate than the Muslims they attempted to destroy, mass murder was the norm of the day. Read!
Also, complaints about the fact that Adelia seems to be more advanced than she should be. People/Readers...Adelia is not English! At this period in history the Muslim world was much more advanced than Europe, especially medically - broaden your knowledge of world history! Also, questions about Adelia's ideas of sanitary conditions - Adelia was raised by Jews! Jewish laws regarding cleanliness were far beyond those of the Europeans - it's part of the reason so many escaped the Black Death bringing upon themselves the ire of those around them. Adelia is a combination of the best ideas of her time. This is also the time of Eleanor of Aquitaine! The incredibly rich & royal woman who married the King of France, went on Crusade, left the King of France to marry the King of England, the over the top Henry II, bore him several sons and then rebelled against him with her own forces! If there was any time in history when women may have been considering thier roles and places - this would have been it. How could they not with such a role model?
On the whole, part of what I loved so much about this series is that it introduces ideas other than the standard European ones we are normally taught growing up. I found the Jewish and Muslim ideas in this book very interesting and more historically accurate than what I normally find in a book about this time. It may not be perfect, but it was interesting, fun, intense, and full of wonderful characters....and a little romance too. So, if your not prudish and squeemish - jump in and enjoy!
Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime
Try Prime
and start saving today with fast, free delivery
Loading your book clubs
There was a problem loading your book clubs. Please try again.
Not in a club? Learn more
Join or create book clubs
Choose books together
Track your books
Bring your club to Amazon Book Clubs, start a new book club and invite your friends to join, or find a club that’s right for you for free.
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now.
Frequently bought together
Similar items that may deliver to you quickly
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
About the author
Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Top reviews from other countries
juliana
an excellent historical thriller
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 11, 2008