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    Unhallowed Ground
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    Unhallowed Ground
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    Unhallowed Ground
    Ebook274 pages4 hours

    Unhallowed Ground

    By Mel Starr

    4/5

    ()

    Currently unavailable

    Currently unavailable

    About this ebook

    Thomas atte Bridge, a man no one likes, is found hanging from a tree near Cow-leys Corner.

    All assume he has taken his own life, but Master Hugh and Kate find evidence that this may not be so. Many of the town had been harmed by Thomas, and Hugh is not eager to send one of them to the gallows. Then he discovers that the priest John Kellet, atte Bridge's partner in crime in A CORPSE AT ST. ANDREW'S CHAPEL, was covertly in Bampton at the time atte Bridge died. Master Hugh is convinced that Kellet has murdered atte Bridge ' one rogue slaughtering another. He sets out for Exeter, where Kellet now works. But there he discovers that the priest is an emaciated skeleton of a man, who mourns the folly of his past life. Hugh must return to Bampton and discover which of his friends has murdered his enemy...

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherLion Fiction
    Release dateSep 20, 2013
    ISBN9781782640844
    Unavailable
    Unhallowed Ground
    Author

    Mel Starr

    Mel Starr is the author of the successful Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton series. He was born and grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan. After graduating with a MA in history from Western Michigan University in 1970, hetaught history in Michigan public schools for thirty-nine years. Since retiring, he has focused on writing full time. Mel and his wife, Susan, have two daughters and eight grandchildren.

    Read more from Mel Starr

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    Reviews for Unhallowed Ground

    4/5

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    • 4/5
      This is the fourth installment of the Hugh de Singleton series and Hugh and Kate have been married for about three months when Thomas atte Bridge is found hanging from a tree. While the coroner wants to call it a suicide, the evidence points to foul play. Even though atte Bridge has had run ins with most of the townsfolk and is disliked by all Hugh is determined to figure out who the murderer is.This book takes place in 1366 in England, and it's easy to see the author does an amazing job of researching the time period. Not only am I intrigued by the suspense and mystery of the story but I also enjoy reading about the medical procedures that took place during that time period, as well as medieval life in general. The food in particular that Hugh ate sounded quite different. I found the glossary included in the front of the book quite useful in understanding what was being said. I also enjoy the relationship between Hugh and Kate and look forward to reading more about these two characters.This book is the fourth in the series and while the author provides a bit of background about the characters ,I recommend reading the series in order to get the in depth background on the reoccurring characters. rating 4/5A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
    • 4/5
      UNHALLOWED GROUND by Mel Starr is a medieval police historical fiction. It is book #4 in the " Chronicles of Hugh De Singleton, Surgeon" series,but can be read as a stand alone. See,"The Unquiet Bones","A Corpse at St Andrew's Chapel",and "A Trail of Ink". The saga of Hugh de Singleton continues as a tale of medieval murder,mystery,and life. "Unhallowed Ground" follows Singleton as he searches for a killer through Exeter and Bampton,as he discovers corruption,and past mistakes. Fast paced,full of drama and adventure with vivid descriptions. Interesting characters who will carry you away. A multi-layered story with a compelling mystery told in vivid details. A great read for anyone who enjoy mystery,medieval times,medical marvels and adventure. Received for an honest review from Library Thing and the publisher. Details can be found at Kregel Publications,the author's website, and My Book Addiction and More. RATING: 4HEAT RATING: Sweet: No sex or scenes of physical intimacy except some kissing. No graphic violence or profanity.REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction and More
    • 5/5
      In Mel Starr’s fourth tale of Hugh de Singleton, medieval surgeon, Unhallowed Ground, we find our protagonist investigating the murder of one Thomas atte Bridge after this unlikable fellow is found hanging from a tree. While Master Hugh would like to believe the popular opinion that the victim took his own life, his finding of evidence to the contrary requires him to investigate his friends and neighbors to determine who took the life of their common enemy.I enjoyed this book immensely. The story, which is written in the first person, pulled me in and helped me to understand the culture through the eyes of one of its inhabitants. A thorough glossary is included in the front of the book for assistance in understanding some of the more archaic terms that are used throughout the book. That is to say, the book is not only enjoyable but also educational. The story is also aided by a map in the front of the book that shows where locations in the book are in relation to each other.One of the things that I enjoyed about the book was seeing the author’s own modern-day thoughts expressed through the Master Hugh. Numerous times in the book the narrator explains a religious or other practice or belief and then offers his disagreement with the practice or belief. It is fascinating to see some aspects of the culture of 1366 and these comments helped to remind me that it is unrealistic to believe that the entire population agreed with all of what we would now consider primitive ideas.Among other things, the book shows that Christ can change our hearts and that we must not assume that this fact applies only to ourselves. Master Hugh learns this lesson when he takes a long journey to find the man he is certain committed the murder only to find someone else entirely.I was afraid that a book about a medieval surgeon would include descriptions of medical practices that I would rather not know about (or be reminded of), but this was not the case. While it did describe some medical procedures, I found the descriptions non-nightmare-inducing.This is an excellent book and I encourage you to read it if you like mysteries and/or historical fiction.Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kregel Publications as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
    • 4/5
      I received this book through the giveaway program through LibraryThing. I don't usually read historical mysteries set in the medieval period, so this was an adventure for me. It was a surprisingly pleasant one, too. I really liked the tenaciousness of the main character, Hugh de Singleton. Now I want to go back and read the previous stories (this one connects tightly to a previous one, though I did not feel frustrated about not having read the previous one). I learned some things I did not know about the period. The author provides a glossary to help the reader with terms that are unfamiliar. But most importantly, I was intrigued by the main character. In a way, he's like Cadfael in his doggedness, and Starr gives us a hero/detective like Cadfael who is not perfect but who aims to do right no matter the cost.
    • 5/5
      I had the privilege of having read Mel Starr’s A Trail of Ink and as much as I enjoyed that one I’d have to say I’ve enjoyed Unhallowed Ground just as much or maybe more. This is the fourth chronicle of a surgeon by the name of Hugh de Singleton who is living and working in the 1300′s and as one will start realizing as they read, you will be taken fully back into that time with the language as well as how operations are performed – I found the performance of the couching surgery for cataracts quite interesting. The author has provided a glossary at the beginning so that unfamiliar terms can be understood at a glance but it’s not really hard to figure out what certain terms mean, although figuring out the holidays celebrated then does take some calculation.This is written by de Singleton, it’s his journal of his daily life as he goes about his life being a bailiff, surgeon, newly married and soon-to-be father. This book isn’t being written about him but rather by him so if you don’t want to read a book that is detailing events by the main character then you may want to pass this up. Yes we are told what he has for breakfast several times as well as other dining details, but I found it to be the mundane parts of the book that had me more relating to the characters.Some parts really struck me, such as how Hugh de Singleton struggles with not believing everything the Church teaches or the current medical ideas of the day, such as back in the day Galen (I had to google this man) taught that a woman who was raped couldn’t become pregnant during said assault unless she was a willing participant – this mind set occurs in one of de Singleton’s cases that must be dealt with while he is investigating what most believe is a suicide when he believes otherwise.The historical accounts are what draws me in, since I enjoy history this book really intrigued me as I read about certain beliefs, including those of the Church, that some physicians of the day were questioning but couldn’t say much out loud for fear of reprisals. Hugh de Singleton mentions a few times how he fears that something he writes could be found by a Priest or Bishop but questions whether they’d concern themselves with him. I almost forgot I was reading a book by a real, living author because I got so wrapped up in Hugh’s life in this book that he became almost real and it felt like I was truly reading his account. A book to be truly enjoyed and savored.**I was provided a copy of this book from Kregel Publications in exchange for my honest opinion, no other compensation was given.
    • 5/5
      I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even more than the first three books in the series.
    • 3/5
      I found this book rather hard to read. What I did like about the book was the depth of the history, the research and the author's understanding of the period written about in the book. I also really liked the characters of Hugh & Kate who are both very strong, suited to each other and even though they (especially Hugh) have to make tough decisions when it comes to people they know - they do it.Unhallowed Ground refers to the church's stance that someone who either has committed suicide or is an executed criminal being refused burial in the church graveyard. The book opens with the scene of atte Bridge hanging from a noose outside the burial area for said suicide victims and criminals. The only sign that something may have happened was a little mud on the back of his shoes and a very short trail that looks like someone may have been drug. Everyone hated atte Bridge and so no one seems to inclined to consider that foul play may have ocurred - even our hero Huge has a hard time making the decision to do what's right.I'm not really going to say much else about the book. I personally had some trouble reading this book. Unfortunately it wasn't for me. It's very well written, thoroughly researched and if you like regency or period pieces along with a good mystery you'll more than likely like it.
    • 4/5
      A nice find! This is a cozy little mystery set in 1366 England in a village called Bampton. Hugh Singleton has recently wed his love, Kate. There are nice little details about daily life in a small village, which I enjoy and think are a good addition to add flavor. The mystery is not a big one, but without the framework of thought and criminal sciences that modern readers take for granted it is not so easy to prove guilt. The characters are believable, the setting feels true. The only sad part is now I have to get the first 3 books in the series.
    • 4/5
      Hugh de Singleton, bailiff of Lord Gilbert Talbot, receives a summons when a suicide is discovered on land belonging to Lord Gilbert. The dead man was a troublemaker with criminal tendencies who at some point had harmed almost everyone in Bampton. His death would not be mourned. He would be buried where the body was found, for the tree from which he hung was at the crossroads where suicides were buried since they could not be laid to rest in hallowed ground. Master Hugh has no wish to question the suicide verdict, yet he is troubled by evidence that points to murder rather than suicide. Hugh has too much integrity to let the matter rest, even as he worries that the murderer may well be someone he looks upon as a friend.No words or scenes are wasted in this well-written book. The author creates well-rounded suspects, reasonable motives and in a plausible 14th century setting in a book that can be easily read in a single evening. The only flaw, in my opinion, is the author's reliance on coincidence to create a couple of red herrings. The book could be read as a stand-alone, but readers who think they might want to read the whole series will want to start from the beginning. This book includes spoilers that reveal the culprits and outcomes of previous books in the series.This series reminds me of Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael series. Hugh de Singleton has had some medical training, and he occasionally provides treatment for sick or wounded people. Like Cadfael, Hugh also wrestles with religious and ethical questions as he considers which course of action he should pursue.This review is based on a complimentary copy provided by the publisher through LibraryThing's Early Reviewers program.
    • 4/5
      I really enjoy the Hugh de Singleton series. Hugh is a surgeon and the bailiff of Lord Gilbert in Brampton. In this well written & entertaining fourth entry he is looking into the murder of Thomas atte Bridge, a man no one much cared for and for whom no one mourns. Everyone would be happier if Hugh would leave well enough alone & let it be ruled a suicide. But Hugh cannot let things be. On a personal front Hugh's wife Kate is expecting their first child. Unhallowed Ground can be read without reading the previous 3 books but many of the characters reappear in them and the back story to their interactions does enhance the overall story. I recommend this entire series if you enjoy historic cozy mysteries.
    • 3/5
      I only recently discovered ‘The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton’, which attracted me for a number of reasons. As a fan of the Cadfael series a Medieval Crime Mystery series seemed interesting, as a lover of Medieval History the setting attracted me, and as a Christian the religious aspects and the fact that novels in this genre tend to be ‘cleaner’ than others also seemed a plus.

      By way of a brief introduction the series is set in the late 1300s (14th century) and the protagonist Hugh de Singleton is the younger son of a knight who trained as a surgeon (different from a physician) who was appointed Bailiff of the Oxfordshire Village of Bampton on the Weald after treating the Local Lord.
      Bampton is a real village a short distance from Oxford, and most of Hugh’s sleuthing and medical work takes place in and around the region. John Wycliffe the controversial theologian also makes an appearance as a secondary character in a number of the stories, as a friend and mentor of Hugh, who adheres to some of his teachings and doctrines which went against the mainstream teaching of the Catholic Church.

      With this particular instalment, the fourth in the series, I was generally satisfied. The crime itself is not described in graphic detail, nor does the author seem to delight in gory descriptions of brutal acts, and the aspects of social history are interesting. Some of the descriptions of medieval surgery and medical practice are also fascinating, as well as the everyday lives of ordinary folk. The historical elements seem to be well done, plausible and authentic- and appear to be well researched for the most part. The glossary is useful for the more unfamiliar terms.

      Yet the novel does seem to drag a little towards the middle. The main reason for this seems to have been that Hugh just did not have much to do, and so his daily life and routine just seems to have become part of the plot, and, whilst this work for a while, it cannot always hold one’s interest. Admittedly, it would not be much of a mystery novel if the case was solved easily or quickly, and the process of investigation is as important as the resolution, yet the story just seemed slow and plodding in parts.

      Hugh’s moral dilemma is worked into the story well, and adds a somewhat deeper element. He must investigate the murder of a hugely unpopular member of the community whom almost everyone seems to have had motive to slay and at first is convinced that a corrupt and murderous clergyman who had previously been complicit in another crime must the culprit, despite the fact that all who know him insist that he is a changed man.

      When he goes to confront the man, he must in some way confront his own unpleasant prejudice to find that his prime suspect could not be guilty. Gradually, as the suspects become fewer it becomes apparent that one of his friends may be responsible.
      As this becomes apparent, Hugh is torn between pursuing the felon as his role and justice demands, and abandoning investigation because of the possibility of having to send one of his friends to the gallows if he does discover a murdered amongst them.

      Yet the conclusion of this moral dilemma (and the solving of the murder) is distinctly unsatisfactory, as well as morally questionable, which is the main reason why I gave this novel a lower rating than I perhaps would have done.

      On a moral level, I much prefer the married Hugh in this Novel to Hugh the Bachelor in previous novels who was in the habit of ogling a particular teenage scullery maid, as well as any other pretty face who could turn his head, or distract his attention. He is, in my view a far more appealing character when he is not occupied by thoughts of women and fantasising about the benefits of marriage as in the second novel which I hope soon to finish.

      Overall, ‘Unhallowed Ground’ was and enjoyable and pleasant read, likely to satisfy lovers of historical fiction if their expectations are not too high. Those who expect the High Drama of political intrigue will be disappointed, but those who prefer ‘cosy’ rural settings may take to it more. As murder mystery it is good, though perhaps not the best, the most intriguing element may the protagonist belonging to a much misunderstood and underrated profession which the author has clearly taken trouble to acquaint himself with.
    • 4/5
      Hugh de Singleton, surgeon and bailiff, is back in the fourth installment of the series. Once again Master Hugh is overseeing activities in Bampton in the absence of Lord Gilbert. Hugh and his new bride, Kate, are just settling into married life when he is summoned to the apparent suicide of Thomas atte Bridge. Thomas had been found hanging from a tree with an overturned stool lying nearby.It seems simple enough; however, Master Hugh is troubled by what he observes at the scene and suspects that a murder has been committed. Having wronged almost everyone in town at one time or another, it comes as no surprise that few mourn the death of atte Bridge. Indeed, Hugh finds that there is no shortage of villagers who would have wanted Thomas dead. Chief among the suspects is Master Hugh's old nemesis, John Kellet. Rumor has it that Kellet is a changed man, but Hugh finds this difficult to believe.Although it would be easier to simply let the matter rest, Hugh struggles with his conscience and must decide whether to pursue a killer among his friends or not. Alone in his convictions with only the support of his new wife, Hugh must act before someone else gets hurt.The Bottom Line: "Unhallowed Ground: The Fourth Chronicle of Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon" is written in first person. The story unfolds in a chronicle written by Master Hugh. Hugh's writing exposes his thoughts as he searches for the murderer and does some soul searching. Author Mel Starr provides the reader with a fun puzzle and a fascinating look at medieval village life and medical practices.This is an enjoyable, quick read that is perfect for the weekend. While it is the fourth book in the series, it can be read as a stand alone. However, I have enjoyed reading the series in order and watching Master Hugh grow in character and struggle with his faith. The book includes both a map and a glossary. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction, cozies, and medieval mysteries.
    • 4/5
      This is the fourth book in the series, and it was as entertaining as the last three. Hugh and Kate have wed, and are back in Bampton. While in Bampton, Hugh receives a summons from Lord Gilbert when a dead man if found on Lord Gilbert's land. As Hugh searches for the murderer, he has some soul-searching to do himself. Although the story is written by a Christian author, don't let that dissuade readers from reading this series. They are fun, light and enjoyable. Start at the beginning of the series since Starr brings previous villains and their deeds back into this story. I can't wait for book 5!
    • 5/5
      I love this series and this book did not disappoint. I love the characters Hugh de Singleton and his wife Kate. They are easy to love and to care about. The plot lines are not something to write home about, but if you want a pleasing, enjoyable, light, quick historical mystery, then this is the series for you. The series is written by a "Christian" author but do not let this put you off. While there are references to religious ideas, but if you can look past these, then the books are sure not to disappoint. I will be anxiously awaiting the next in the series.
    • 5/5
      A man who commits suicide or was he murdered? Buried where? Why? The year is 1360 something in an unfamiliar land and unique sounding words describe people, positions, and responsibilities. Never before has such a novel attracted my attention…until now.Mel Starr has written “chronicles” of a character named Hugh de Singleton. This character has more than one job in his village. What the name of the village is, I can’t say. What is this character’s occupation? I can’t spoil the book and reveal what he does.He is caught in a web of intriguing mystery that twists many times almost like a rope. Maybe that is why there is a picture of that on the cover. It sure grabs one’s attention doesn’t it? In the language of the setting, it seems like one is transported to a time where words such as almoner, farthing, bailiff and Cow-ley were ordinary words.When I first looked at the book and read the words and definitions, I was thinking I bit off more than I could chew. Would I understand the story or not? Would I be able to follow the characters while trying to figure out the plot? After the first few pages of chapter 1, I was hooked. I had to know how this medieval novel ended. I kept reading as I was carried away to Bampton, following the actions of priests, sires, bishops, and carpenters. There are many more fascinating people in this story who travel to other lands to seek answers.Sometimes when one reads a novel the characters seem so unreal; however, Mel Starr has done a superb job of helping his readers “feel” the human part of mankind in the story. Never before have I read a book where the setting has taken place in medieval times. Prior to Unhallowed Ground, I would have just looked past the book to genres I am more familiar and comfortable with reading.I cannot recommend the Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton enough. If Mel Starr wrote his past and future novels with the same brilliance as he did this one, he has found a loyal fan indeed! Most novels are based on some known, unknown or little before known fact in history; Mel Starr’s writings are no different. There are other books in this series of chronicles, though each one stands alone, and are titled: The Unquiet Bones, a Corpse at St. Andrews Chapel; A Trail of Ink and then the forthcoming book, The Tainted Coin. These are stories you will surely read more than once, maybe even getting them for family members, friends or coworkers who love a good mystery. I don’t want to spoil the suspense felt as the book is read so I won’t let the preverbal “cat out of the bag” by saying more. Get the book, curl up, turn off the noise, and get lost for a while in Unhallowed Ground. You will never regret it!Note: I received a complimentary copy as a blog tour participant forKregel Publications.
    • 4/5
      A series that gets better with each book, and this is the best one so far. It is helpful to have read at least the preceding book in the series, if not all, but the characters continue to develop and grow, the history is good (and the glossary is especially helpful), and the story is well done. I am eagerly anticipating the next in the series.
    • 4/5
      A gripping mystery that will keep you guessing who right up to the end.
    • 4/5
      I've been slowly reading through this series and In my opinion they just keep getting better. Here we have a man that no one likes, apparently committing suicide. But there are too many clues that Hugh sees that don't add up, as a matter of fact, he's pretty sure the man was murdered. But it's troubling finding a murderer, when most people are glad he's gone including the the investigator, Hugh himself.Justice vs. Mercy? Great story, and an old foe show up again, the timing of which throws Hugh off the scent for a little bit. Cool mystery, smart but believably fallible protagonist, great read. Will continue reading the series!
    • 4/5
      1366 Thomas atte Bridge has been found hanged. The verdict given to this hated man is suicide. But evidence discovered by Hugh de Singleton proves otherwise, unfortunately, so he believes he must investigate. Only to find as expected many motives for the death.
      An enjoyable and well-written historical mystery
    • 5/5
      A man who commits suicide or was he murdered? Buried where? Why? The year is 1360 something in an unfamiliar land and unique sounding words describe people, positions, and responsibilities. Never before has such a novel attracted my attention…until now.Mel Starr has written “chronicles” of a character named Hugh de Singleton. This character has more than one job in his village. What the name of the village is, I can’t say. What is this character’s occupation? I can’t spoil the book and reveal what he does.He is caught in a web of intriguing mystery that twists many times almost like a rope. Maybe that is why there is a picture of that on the cover. It sure grabs one’s attention doesn’t it? In the language of the setting, it seems like one is transported to a time where words such as almoner, farthing, bailiff and Cow-ley were ordinary words.When I first looked at the book and read the words and definitions, I was thinking I bit off more than I could chew. Would I understand the story or not? Would I be able to follow the characters while trying to figure out the plot? After the first few pages of chapter 1, I was hooked. I had to know how this medieval novel ended. I kept reading as I was carried away to Bampton, following the actions of priests, sires, bishops, and carpenters. There are many more fascinating people in this story who travel to other lands to seek answers.Sometimes when one reads a novel the characters seem so unreal; however, Mel Starr has done a superb job of helping his readers “feel” the human part of mankind in the story. Never before have I read a book where the setting has taken place in medieval times. Prior to Unhallowed Ground, I would have just looked past the book to genres I am more familiar and comfortable with reading.I cannot recommend the Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton enough. If Mel Starr wrote his past and future novels with the same brilliance as he did this one, he has found a loyal fan indeed! Most novels are based on some known, unknown or little before known fact in history; Mel Starr’s writings are no different. There are other books in this series of chronicles, though each one stands alone, and are titled: The Unquiet Bones, a Corpse at St. Andrews Chapel; A Trail of Ink and then the forthcoming book, The Tainted Coin. These are stories you will surely read more than once, maybe even getting them for family members, friends or coworkers who love a good mystery. I don’t want to spoil the suspense felt as the book is read so I won’t let the preverbal “cat out of the bag” by saying more. Get the book, curl up, turn off the noise, and get lost for a while in Unhallowed Ground. You will never regret it!Note: I received a complimentary copy as a blog tour participant forKregel Publications.