Guest book
All comments, contributions or corrections welcomed!
There is also a Google group run in association with this site which you are very welcome to join.
Guest book entries (most recent at top)
"I love the series. It is all in good fun and I am becoming a Solitary Sister. I am of Catholic background and still am. I have decided I want a library of books on Nun's Stories. I read and saw The Nun's Story years ago and here in Australia we had an ABC production called Brides of Christ, so bit I bit I hope to gather films and books. I loved a film I saw years ago with Deborah Kerr called The Black Narcissus. A real classic of a film. Thanks for having all the Veronica Blacks novel's on the Detective Nun on your website. I hope to set about getting them." (Sharon Konrad, Australia)
"I lived in Fairbanks, Alaska as a Jesuit Volunteer where I met a young Jesuit priest named Brad Reynolds. He was such a kind and gentle man that I thought of him often over these past 25 years. Recently I ordered an audiobook for my mother, who can't see, and the author was Brad Reynolds. When my mother said the book was written by a Jesuit, I thought, "couldn't be." Your site has cleared that mystery up to a degree. Could there be two Brad Reynolds, S.J. who lived in Alaska (in the missions I am familiar with) and wrote Father Townsend mysteries?? Thanks so much for making me smile!" (Mary DeVito)
All I can add about Brad Reynolds is that he first went to Toksook Bay on Nelson Island in 1973 to write on the work of Jesuits there. But I have now added a photo of him - so, if it is the same person, perhaps you can recognise him! (Philip Grosset)
"Wonderful site, I have bought ALL Father Koesler books and I love reading them." (Frank Rodriguez)
"Dear Michelle, I have appreciated and followed Lily Connor in all of your three books and I am kindly wondering if there will be a fourth book any time soon. I have only just reread all three of your novels for about the fourth time, hence my inquiry. I do adore all of the Episcopal mysteries [wink!] I have found, and so have read Julia Spencer-Fleming and I am currently reading Mark Schweizer's Hayden Koenig mysteries but I have a fondness for Lily that is unique. Thank you for your time and wonderful writing. As an Episcopalian and a chaplain, these books warm my heart and feed my Episco soul. Sincerely, Catherine Windsor+"
I'm afraid I'm not Michelle Blake, but only the compiler of the Clerical Detectives website! If you'd like to get in touch with Michelle Blake, I suggest you write to her via her publishers. I'm sorry but I have no news of a fourth book. (Philip Grosset)
Interesting site, have read most of Ellis Peters' work, and am very interested in the history.
Is not 'the heretic's apprentice' set, say, in 1143? Cadfael is 65 in the last book! Also wasn't 'Summer of the Danes' given a date?" (John Campbell)
You are quite right. 'The Heretic's Apprentice' was set in 1143. The 'Summer of the Danes' was in 1144. (Philip Grosset)
"I cannot begin to tell you how useful this site has been to me as I continue to build my personal collection of novels involving Roman Catholic priests/detectives. The chronological listings alone would be invaluable, but the detailed synopses/analyses/critical evaluations are extremely valuable in numerous ways, as are the biographical sketches of the authors. Thanks ever so much for all the care and work which has obviously gone into building this resource!" (Richard Meyer)
"In your listing of the titles, it shows "Brother Cadfael's Penance" as taking place in 1195. That must be a typo, it should be 1145. Great site, good discussion of the books. Thanks!" (Luke Birgit)
Many thanks for the correction. (Philip Grosset)
"I am trying to contact author James L. Johnson's son. James was my teacher in the early 80s and I would like to reestablish contact. Can you help? Many thanks." (Michael Apichella)
I'm afraid I've had no contact with his son, so cannot help. But can anyone else? (Philip Grosset)
"Hello, I just found your review of my novel The James Version, and I thought I`d respond. This was my first novel (I am now writing my fifth) and I actually agree with your critique. A first novel is a training ground, and although parts of the book work well, other things are less successful. I suspect all novelists would say the same about any book they write - we all hope that our next one is better than the one before. Thank you for for reviewing The James Version and drawing it to people`s attention. I wish you luck with your unusual and interesting site. Best wishes, Ruth (Dugdall)
"I was looking for Code Name Sebastian. Do you include on your list the Father Brown mystery stories by Gilbert Keith Chesterton? They're the best!" (Darien)
Yes I do! Please see the contents page for a list of the over 160 authors so far included. (Philip Grosset)
"Was interested to read your comments on my Grandfather C A Alington: 'One of his daughters married Sir Alec Douglas-Home who was to become UK Prime Minister. He had been one of C A Alington's pupils at Eton.'
As it happens all of his future son in law's had been pupils of his at Eton: Lord Dunglass later Earl of Home and later still Sir Alec Douglas Home. Roger A.B. Mynors later Sir Roger Mynors. And my Father JCV Wilkes later Rev JCV Wilkes, head master (warden) of Radley and like his father in law ordained later in life. Hope this is of some interest." (Rob Wilkes)
"Read The Smile of the Ghost and enjoyed it very much. Recognized the surroundings too and that made it all the more interesting. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series. Hope you plan to do more. Cheers." (Maureen Patterson, Fanny Bay, British Columbia)
If you would like to email Phil Rickman directly, there's a link to his website (that includes his email address) at the foot of my Merrily Watkins page. (Philip Grosset)
"You might like Don Camillo. Author (I think) Giovanni Guareschi. His stories are excellent, just get The Don Camillo Omnibus. A detective subplot carrying through many of them covers the murder of a man in front of his young son in his home; but the real story is the tension of politics between the Catholic and Communist factions and their leaders in their town." (ChrisPer)
Very many thanks for reminding me of Don Camillo. I've now added a page about him. (Philip Grosset)
"My husband, Christopher Leach, a greatly under-rated writer, died 26.6.2004. The Texas Station/aka Blood Games has long been on film option in USA but does not get any further. Unfortunately he never had a regular agent to promote his works and was an idealist, passionate about writing. He was sometimes reviewed as an American but never even visited USA. I have on disc his last book (short), unpublished : ' A view from Fort Piker'. His 2 volumes of short stories are outstanding but I don't think they were published in America. Boston University has an archive. (Joan Leach)
Many thanks for the extra information, some of which I have now added to the page. (Philip Grosset)
"Is Mark Schweizer still writing? Anything new to come out?" (Ann Rankin)
Mark Schweizer's last book, The Mezzo Wore Mink, came out in 2008. I have no news of the next one but you could try asking his publisher, St James Music Press, at https://www.sjmpbooks.com. (Philip Grosset)
"I am Joan Coggin's niece. My father was her brother. If you would like a photo of Aunt Joan I have rather a good one. I also have first editions of some of her books. Best wishes." (Ingrid Honderich nee Coggin)
Yes please! I've now added the photo to the Joan Coggin page. (Philip Grosset)
"In 1980 I used to work at Tesco in Knutsford, Cheshire and one of our customers was Christopher Leach. I was googling him to see if he was still writing/alive! And I found your site. I read a few of his books and did enjoy Blood Games, his preacher-based book." (Nick Allen)
"Louis Buss is the son,by his first marriage of Robin Buss, film critic and translator of french classics who died in december 2006 (see obituary in the independent). I knew Louis and Robin and last met Louis at the funeral of another acquaintance, Michael David Anthony, author of ecclesiastical thrillers (Harrison - on your site). Since moving to Italy some years ago I lost complete touch with Louis, even though I sent an email to his publisher - I too am puzzled at his lack of web presence and the failure of other novels from his pen to appear." (Francis Pettitt)
Thanks for the information, some of which I have added to the page about him. (Philip Grosset)
"On the home page you list the name of The nun who hides mystery stories in her prayer book as Sister Helen Mary, it is actually Mary Helen which is correct on the link page." (Eileen)
Many thanks for the correction. (Philip Grosset)
"Are you aware that there is now a ninth Sister Agnes book, called A Violent Act, available from Allison and Busby? It deals with creationism and evidence, fossils and evolution. You might like it. Best, Alison (Joseph)
Thanks, I have now added it to the page. (Philip Grosset)
"Most interesting information - but I'm sorry to read that D.M. Greenwood seems to have stopped writing. For a long time, I couldn't track down 'Theodora Braithwaite' books at all, because I couldn't remember her author's surname [this was before I knew that I could proably just have typed 'Archdeacon Theodora - fictional detective' into Google!], but then I found one of the books in a charity shop....
Round about the time that I first read one of these books, I also read some books whose detective was a vicar's wife. The titles had a similar witty twist to them, and I thought their author, too, had two initials and a two-syllable surname.
I don't know whether a vicar's wife would qualify as a 'clerical detective', but thought it was worth asking whether you could help!
Incidentally, I too very much enjoy Michael Gilbert [though 'enjoy' isn't really the right word to use for his chilling 'The Night of the Twelfth'] and particularly Michael Innes. [Have you also read the books he wrote as J.I.M. Stewart not detective novels?]" (Cath Humphrey)
The author you are looking for may be Emilie Richards, creator of minister's wife Aggie Sloan-Wilcox. There is a list of clergy wives towards the foot of my contents page. (Philip Grosset)
"You spell the name of the inspector in "Which Doctor" as Burnival. In the edition that I have (Ballantine paperback), it is Burnivel." (David Hawkins)
You are quite right. I've now corrected my text! Many thanks." (Philip Grosset)
"I was given a set of 3 books in a presentation box for a present and now I am hooked! I am now working my way through the rest. Sister Fidelma is a great characterisation and the plots are excellent." (Tom Hickie)
"An excellent page on William Brodrick." (Keith Parkin)
Also see Keith Parkin's interesting own page on Brodrick. (Philip Grosset)
"I haven't read the Reverend Dean stories but I know something about it and think you have missed the point. What you regard as 'silly plots', 'too many murders' and 'unreal situations' are quite deliberate and represent an attempt to bring back the classic style of detective story in which the interest lay in the act of deduction rather than any kind of emotional involvement with the characters. If you want a 'detective story' with 'real characters' and 'emotional depth' -- and personally I find THESE utterly tedious and boring -- then there are a hundred to choose from on the shelf of your local bookshop. The Dean book is deliberately and refreshingly different.
It's a little naive to criticise something for failing to achieve something it never attempted to do in the first place. Would you criticise a crossword puzzle because it had a 'silly plot'?" (Jon Jermey)
Having had the advantage of actually reading the book, I stick with my verdict that "The stories, despite the rather silly plots, can be quite fun to read, particularly if you like solving mysteries." And, in fact, the author does try to make Reverend Dean seem like a real person. (Philip Grosset)
"I enjoyed the comments on Michael Innes, but think you should mention Hamlet Revenge which is particularly good." (Andrew Lee-Hart)
"Great site and very well done. Glad to see William F. Love's wonderful Bishop Regan and wry Davey Goldman represented." (Diane Gilbert Madsen)
"So glad to see that the words written by Winona Sullivan live on - Sister Cecile books are the best ever!" (Mary Murray)
"Great Site! My mother Winona wrote the Sister Cecile mysteries, glad to see they are appreciated!" (Rachel Sullivan MD)
"Hi, I came across your well put together site today and noticed that you were looking for more information on the author of the Sister Cecile Mysteries, Winona Sullivan. Your short description is accurate for the most part. She worked for the CIA during the 1960s, and even as her son, I know little about her activities as an agent in Russia. She devoted most of her life to others, through teaching and raising her seven children, and always offered a unique and humorous perspective on life. She taught at several colleges, but was also very enthusiastic about teaching high school students and teaching English as a second language to immigrants. Her writing career consisted of a great deal of short stories and poetry in addition to the Sister Cecile Mysteries and a book on how to be a mother. She was very faithful to her religion and volunteered as a religious education teacher for most of her life. Although she was a non-smoker, she died of Lung Cancer in 2004. There is a website that awards a scholarship annually in her memory:http://www.sullivanscholarship.org/.
The creative tradition in her family is continued by her husband, a prominent fine artist who does a lot of religious work (http://www.sullivanart.com), her son an artist (myself: http://www.christiansullivanart.com), her daughter (http://www.sullivanart.com/MARYSULLIVANART/index.htm) and her son Edmund, a musician (http://www.eddyboston.com/music)'
Thank you for your very informative and useful site, I look forward to perusing some more, and please do not hesitate to contact me for any additional information." (Chris Sullivan)
Many thanks for all this information, some of which I have now added to the page. (Philip Grosset)
"The site has been an invaluable resource." (L. V. Lawrence}
"In answer to the comment "I'm trying to track down information about Michael Gilbert's radio plays. Can you help?" (Gareth Tilley) the web site http://radioarchive.cc a private bit torrent site for BBC radio broadcasts, has the following in mp3 format:
Michael Gilbert - Petrella - Series 2 (4 radio plays)
Petrella - BBC Radio Detective Drama - Series 1 (4 more radio plays)
and michael gilbert smallbone deceased.
The web site http://radiolistings.co.uk has listing information about past BBC radio broadcasts including smallbone deceased and petrella series 1." (Gordon H Sabaduquia)
"I would like to know if Ann Granger is going to write anymore of the Mitchell and Markby Mysteries. I enjoyed them very much." (Bev Colgan, Australia)
I am afraid these are not clerical detectives (not even by my generous interpretation of the term!) so I'm sorry but I don't know anything about them. (Philip Grosset)
"Looking for information on Cadfael. Much interesting info here. I will return & browse further when I have more time.Thank you for an interesting read." (Hilda Harvey)
I really enjoy the Sister Mary Helen Mysteries. Hope there will be more. I also have read many other of the clerical detectives such as Father Dowling mysteries and many others. Have enjoyed them all." {Theresa Aufleger)
"I am a library director that loved your mysteries the first time I read them and decided to see if I could buy all six of them before I retire .... some are on their way." (Kathie Scott)
Yes, but, please, whose mysteries are you talking about? (Philip Grosset)
Great site, I have been an avid reader of clerical detectives since reading Father Brown as a kid and the Rabbi Small. I like how they work their cases from a theological approach. Keep up the good work." (Paco Rodriguez)
"I am the God Daughter of Margaret Ann Hubbard. I enjoyed your review. Email me if you would still like pics and stories of her." (Katy Larkin)
Yes please! (Philip Grosset)
"Maureen Peters (also known as Veronica Black and other names) was my mother. She did indeed have four children, me, Rachel, Emily and one adopted child, Vincent. Sadly she died in May of this year. If you need any more info about her, don't hesitate to get in touch with me." (Martin Peters)
"this is an intresting site" (Oweri)
"Do you know how to contact javan kienzle? i found the name mentioned the "dedication" of a book by Roger E. Craig. i'm hoping to get in touch with mr. craig. roger was a very good friend of my father's in the 1960's in Dearborn, michigan. it would be fabulous if i could find him. my father think's he's no longer alive - i'm not so sure. can you help? thanks." (lisa willis)
I have sent you her email address, and have since received the following message from Javan Kienzle:
"Roger E. Craig is indeed still alive and living in Naples, Florida. If the writer wants to send me her e-mail, I will forward it to Roger."
"Thank you for your succinct resume of the back story to my novel Hangman Blind. Insofar as Tangled Web and so-called inaccuracies are concerned, I suggest you reread what they call inaccuracies and then look at my text. For example, the reviewer (another writer of medieval fiction) claims that events take place at Christmas. I think you'll agree it is clear from the first page that he really means the Feast of St Martin (November). He also confuses the time scale after the fire at the mill and there are other claims which again are due to a too hasty reading. Very slack.
Anyway, that aside, I hope you enjoyed the book and will bear in mind that it is a series, the books are linked and there is no intention of winding everything up except for the main plot - for instance, what happens to Escrick? Read The Red Velvet Turn Shoe to find out!
I do feel Hildegard has a sense of the social value of religion as did the real life prioress of Swyne (see the Chronicle of Meaux 1395) and although this may not fit with our 21st century of what nuns were like I feel it is a reasonable view to take of medieval ecclesiastical life. Dont' forget they ran the economy through the wool trade and wouldn't have been able to do so if they'd been on their knees having visions all the time.
But thanks for taking notice. It was an astute response and for that reason welcome. Perhaps you'd be a good reader for the first draft of my third novel The Law of Angels? Best wishes." (Cassandra Clark)
I'm only relieved it wasn't me who wrote the Tangled Web review! You did not include your email address so I am afraid I could not reply, but it was good to hear from you. I'd be pleased to review The Law of Angels. How about a photo and some biographical information? (Philip Grosset)
"If you are the Philip Grosset who compiles "Clerical Detectives" then this is just to say many thanks for giving such a comprehensive & encouraging review of my second novel "Bones In The Belfry" (Your guest book is kaput). If you are not the same person, I like your website anyway and may one day visit St Ives!" (Suzette A Hill)
I think the guestbook is back in action now! (Philip Grosset)
"Maureen Peters (also known as Veronica Black and other names) was my mother. She did indeed have four children, me, Rachel, Emily and one adopted child, Vincent. Sadly she died in May of this year. If you need any more info about her, don't hesitate to get in touch with me." (Martin Peters)
"I have recently discovered this series, mostly to deal with my Agatha Raisin withdrawal. This site has helped me regarding the order of things." (Deece)
"I was trying to find out if Sister Carol Anne O'Marie was still writing novels because I enjoy her books. Thank you." (Lillian R Hall)
I'm afraid I don't know. Her last book was published in 2006 and no forthcoming book has yet been announced. (Philip Grosset)
"Your Website is wonderful; thanks for your efforts. Here are a few more authors and titles:
Cassara, Ernest (2 titles)
Father Hosea Ballou, 19th c Boston, MA, USA, Universalist minister (historical person)
Murder on Beacon Hill: A Father Ballou and His Dog Spot Mystery, Cambridge, MA: The Anne Miniver Press, c 1995, 1996.
Murder on the Boston Common, [Cambridge, MA]: Cambridge Cornerstone Press, 1998.
A church organist who solves the mystery:
Langton, Jane
Divine Inspiration, New York: Penguin Books, 1993, (Alan Starr, organ builder). Well-written story.
And let's not forget the solitary witches, a recently growing subgenre:
Alt, Madelyn (2 titles) Maggie O'Neill, solitary witch, Stony Mill, Indiana, USA
The Trouble with Magic, New York: Berkeley Prime Crime, Jan. 2006
A Charmed Life, New York: Berkeley Prime Crime, Dec. 2006
Damsgaard, Shirley (4 titles)
Ophelia Jensen, librarian/witch and Abby, witch- herbalist
The Trouble with Witches
Charmed to Death
Witch Way to Murder
Witch Hunt, New York: Avon Books, 2007
Regards, Rev. Kristine Tomlinson
Very many thanks for all these suggestions. I'm amazed you could come up with so many! I've now added pages about Maggie O'Neill, Ophelia and Abby, Alan Starr and Hosea Ballou, of whom I found the latter by far the most interesting. (Philip Grosset)
"Thank you for creating such a good website. I love the genre or subgenre. You may also be interested in the authors David Bland and Cassandra Clark."
Many thanks for the suggestions. I've now added Cassandra Clark and David Bland. (Philip Grosset)
"fine site, you do good work god bless you too" (rev dasari sudhakararao)
"What a great site! You might also be interested in my book, "The Mysteries of Reverend Dean." It's a collection of six locked-room mysteries set in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains; all investigated by a lonely old man - and retired reverend." (Hal White, Washington, USA)
Many thanks for the info. I've now added Reverend Dean. (Philip Grosset)
"My mother was a friend of Alison Neville, and as a teenager I remember very much enjoying some of her novels and was searching for them as my Mum no longer has her copies. I have fond memories of Alison from my early teen years when we lived in Liverpool - my Mum met Alison through dog walking - they had 2 dalmatians. I always found Alison an Inspirng woman - perhaps because unlike so many adults she talked to me seriously. When we moved away she gave me a copy of Le Grand Meaulnes, a book I have always loved. If any of her family read this, please know your Mum is still thought of." (Fariha Thomas)
"Thank you so much for this wonderful site! It will keep me busy reading for a long time!" (Cheryl)
"I just read my first Father Koesler Mystery, The Man Who Loved God (1997), and loved it. You were pretty harsh on it, but I think it was a great read and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the 23 books in the series. I just purchased 8 of them to get me started." (SonDan)
I very much like the Koesler books too. It's just that I didn't think this was one of the best. (Philip Grosset)
" I loved Michelle Blakes Lily Connor Mysteries were there only 3?" (Sherry)
Yes, she has not published anything since The Book of Light (2003). However, she explained in an interview with Julia Spencer-Fleming that she has been busy researching the brain and how we remember, and hoped to finish her next book in 2008. (Philip Grosset)
"Thank you a gazillion times, you listed several authors whom I was trying to remember for several years; the Librarian got tired of trying to help me." (Marjorie)
It was such a relief to find your comments on the author I was looking for, as I was feeling alone in finding certain aspects of her work less than convincing. Basically, if I want to read a fantasy in a parallel universe, that's what I do. If I want to read a historical fiction with a convincing sense of reality, then Cadfael or Fidelma are a lot better. Especially Tremaynes's handling of the pagan issue. Since the Weald was an industrial area of great value to major landowners, I don't see it as a trackless Celtic survival of what the Romans sought to eradicate. And as for John Dee being around in the time of Richard I. And effective talismans. I'll read Scott for that.
Since I found a number of my favourites (Rabbi Small, Theodora Braithwaite) on your site, I'm going to look out for and try to read some of the others recommended.
Thank you for restoring my sanity. And giving me enough info to avoid what riles me. It always seems to me that the pagan and the supernatural are seen as more powerful than the Christianity - I don't see as much of the nun's spirituality as of the less historically or scientifically validated paganism." (Penelope Stanford)
Was Alys Clare the author you had in mind? (Philip Grosset)
"Yes, I was looking for her. I think my search term had developed into "Alys Clare criticism", or "Alys Clare pagan" which should explain how I got to you. There are aspects of her books that I like - the very down to earth nuns and their generosity. But I keep running up against the supernatural. It isn't just her. There are non-detective writers whose medieval works call on ancient gods and are answered.
By the way I was interested to see the entries about Greenwood and Theodora Braithwaite. I first came across her in a local bookshop which stocked her because she was a friend of one of the staff. I think I may drop in there again and make enquiries.
Also by the way, have you come across the radio Franciscan detective Paolo Baldi operating in Ireland? I have been sorry not to find him in print." (Penelope Stanford)
Paolo Baldi (a priest on sabbatical from the Franciscan order, who enjoys using his skills to solve murders in modern-day Dublin) is the leading character in a detective series that was first broadcast in 2000. It had been developed by BBC Northern Ireland from characters created by Barry Devlin, who trained at a Franciscan seminary before becoming a rock musician. Different writers wrote different episodes. The stories have not appeared in book form. (Philip Grosset)
Firstly, congratulations on a truly useful site, i`ve made some notes and will go to my library tomorrow (today is Sunday) and look for several of the authors - so muchly thanks. Secondly how about expanding the site to cover historical detectives who are not in holy orders. That would be absolutely brilliant.Thank you for your hard work and keep it up. " (Thomas Farquhar)
Thanks for the suggestion, but I'm afraid it would be too much for me to add non-clerical detectives. I'd no idea there were so many clerical detectives when I started - 95 of them, if you count the ones I decided not to include (I've listed these in my Introduction). I hope I've found them all now! (Philip Grosset)
"Wow! I love this site & have favorited it! Boucher wrote 2 Sr. Ursula short-stories that are worth your time and one novella about her that's never been reprinted! Also, I feel that Melville Davisson Post's "Uncle Abner" stories deserve a mention. Abner comes off as an Old Testament Prophet figure, though he is not officialy clergy. Hey, great job on this site!!!" (Mike Baker)
Many thanks for the Uncle Abner suggestion. I have now added him to the site. The Sister Ursula novella is called "Vacancy with Corpse" (1946) but I have not been able to find a copy of it. I have also added mention of the short stories to the Ursula page. (Philip Grosset)
"The girl's family never thought Ursula was trying to talk her into being a nun. It was only her boyfriend (and hence the narrator and reader) who thought that. There was a Sister Ursula short story or novelette called "The Stipper".
You only fixed "Adso of Elk (to Melk) in one spot." (Ralph Merridew)
Thanks for the suggested corrections that I have now made to the site. The short story is called The Stripper. (Philip Grosset)
"I enjoyed your commentary, and have agreed with your opinions on most of the (Dame Frevisse) books. I especially related to your remark, "let's hope than the next book ... will be more concerned with Dame Frevisse than with all this political strife".
I'm now reading her next book, "The Apostate's Tale". It looks like your wish has been granted. I'm a cheat, and read the author's note before I began the book. She wrote, "The lack of politics in this story may have been noted" and explained that in 1452, there had been insufficient real conflict to carry gossip to Frevisse's end of England. It certainly is making the story much more entertaining for me.
You also mentioned that wandering player, "[who] admits to Frevisse, his name is not really Joliffe and he is obviously much more than the strolling actor he once pretended to be." If you have been sticking to clerical detectives, you might have missed Frazer's "Play" series. They center on that person who is not really Joliffe. While they don't tell us where he came from (yet) they do explain how he came to be in the employ of so august a personage as the Cardinal.
The four novels in that series that I have read are:
A Play of Isaac -- The heir apparent was an "Eden Child" (had Down's Syndrome). He could have been put away, so why was he killed?
A Play of Dux Moraud -- A creepy tale of doomed bridegrooms.
A Play of Knaves -- Nasty neighbors kick it up a notch.
A Play of Lords -- Politics as usual.
I like them much better than the Frevisse Novels. (And I like Frevisse quite well.) I hope you can find the time to read them, as I think you will like them, too. Kathy (Kathryn Merry)
"Just finished "The Assassin's Riddle" ending w/ Brother Athelstan's leaving St. Erconwald's. Can't find in any other books of the series the thread that ties his leaving w/ his return to Southwark & details John of Gaunt's interference. I've enjoyed your writing & hope you'll be able to help solve THIS riddle! Thanks for your help." (Marti Hrones)
There is mention in the next book, "The Devil's Domain", that Athelstan had left St Erconwald's and "had got as far as Cripplegate before Prior Anselm had intervened and sent a message ordering the Dominican back to his parish". But even Sir John could not discover why, as, when he had asked him, "Athelstan had just shaken his head and smiled". (Philip Grosset)
"It was very good of you to take time to reply. I was wishing for at least a couple chapters from Mr. Harding detailing Athelstan's departure & return: a normal progression from the book's ending chapter. Didn't think I'd be that affected by the characters! Many thanks for your note and good reading in the New Year, Marti."
"The Dorothy Gilman books are always the ones I can curl up with after a long tiring day. I don't usually read books over again but hers I do. I don't usually buy books but hers I will. Thank you." (Marilyn Thiessen).
I have enjoyed reading 'Gold and Gaiters' which I would describe as 'an entertainment'. I would agree that it takes a little time for CAA to get going but I enjoyed the story. Why did he choose to use quotes from Wordsworth at the head of every chapter? Any suggestions?" (Thomas Christie)
Alington explains in "Archbishops Ashore" that "Lady Strathmungo's extensive and peculiar acquaintance with the works of Wordsworth has been invaluable to me while selecting the mottoes for the several chapters". In "Gold and Gaiters" he adds, "I have to thank the compiler of the Index to First Lines appended to Wordsworth’s works; they provide, as will be seen, an inexhaustible supply of quotations appropriate to every occasion." (Philip Grosset)
"Fen, along with Nero Woolfe and Archie Goodwin, is one of the most interesting detectives in fiction and it is a tragedy that Crispin dried up so early in his writing life and didn't dry up in his personal life. I remember one TV dramatisation of Moving Toyshop which brought the character to life admirably although I can't remember who played Fen. I wonder who owns the copyright?" (Peter Birchwood)
"Firstly, congratulations on an excellent site. However, as you might expect, we take exception to the various comments about Stratus 'Innes' books being 'full' of typographical errors. These appear to have originated in one email; now lost, according to your Guest Book page. I'm sure there are one or two 'typos' we have not yet been made aware of, but all books were proof read by independent professional proof readers prior to publication and any discovered since would have been corrected in the next printing.
I wonder if your anonymous correspondent struggled with the age old problem of two nations divided by a common language/spelling? (David Lane, House of Stratus)
I can sympathise with the spelling problem. On this site, I try to use English spelling for English authors and American spelling for American ones - but it gets complicated when an English author's books are published in American editions complete with American spelling! (Philip Grosset)
"Who would ha' thought there were so MANY clerical detectives in fiction?" (Sally Odgers)
"I love the Sr. Joan series. Do you know if Ms Black will continue the series. I would be very disappointed if she did not." (Rosanne Hughes)
Has anyone any information about this? (Philip Grosset)
Looking for CM Smith. I will enjoy returning often. Thanks." (Suzy Hill)
"Great site." (Kathie Nicolet, Chicago)
"Does anyone have any information about DM Greenwood. I love her books and would like to know if she has any plans to write any more." (JEP)
"I have just begun a degree course in Creative Writing and have to turn in a piece on a book by someone I have not previously read. I just happen to have read The 13th Apostle, and your item headed Father Nil will help enormously in givng me a picture of the author and allowing me to organise my own thoughts on the book. Thanks!" (Claire)
"Thank you for this useful website. I have enjoyed Veronica Black's Sister Joan series since the 90s, when I found some of the series' books in the county library. You are correct about the paucity of information about the author and the difficulty in finding books from this series. Your list will be most helpful in my attempts to locate copies of the books - not only those I have not read, but finding and rereading the ones I read and thoroughly enjoyed years ago. And the list will be handy in discovering new clerical sleuths." (Nancy)
"Fantastic work. I am an Adult Services librarian in a public library. I can use your web site to create a new book display. Many thanks!" (Brett Castleberry)
"I think your site is wonderful. Everything I have been looking for. Thanks." (Betty Day)
"What a wonderful web site! I have a great interest in clerical detectives, and you haven't missed too many of them. There are a couple of factual errors in my bio. My husband isn't a Brit - or at least he wasn't when I married him. We both now have UK nationality. And after 20 years in Bedford, we now live in Ludlow, near the Welsh border. I was interested to see the photo and have no idea where you got it." (Kate Charles)
Many thanks for the corrections. I have now amended the text! (Philip Grosset)
"i stumbled upon your website while searching for more info on sister pelagia and author boris akunin. i just want to let you know that i find your site very useful since i am a big fan of mysteries and in particular those solved by clerical detectives. my personal favorites are sister joan, father koesler, and recently sister pelagia. i just finished reading pelagia and the black monk and plan to get a copy of the first of the trilogy, pelagia and the white bulldog.
i will definitely visit your site again to check out the other clerical detectives. thank you!" (eliz s. reyes)
"Just a grateful line to say many thanks for your nice review of my absurd novel, "A Load Of Old Bones". Have just returned from an excellent holiday feeling slightly tired and flat - and your comments on The Revd Oughterard et al have certainly given me a boost! Good luck for your website. Regards, Suzette."(Suzette A Hill)
"What a fantastic site! I read a mystery involving an Episcopal priest who owned a large dog...it was very funny...ever heard of this series? also, how do you pronounce Ellis Peter's Brother Cadfael properly? I love her books...too bad she died...I miss her mysteries." (Freddy Weller)
The priest with the large dog could well be The Rev Francis Oughterard, whose dog Bouncer tells part of the story. Cadfael is usually pronounced Cad-file (as in the TV series), but there are some Welsh speakers who insist it should be Cad-vile! (Philip Grosset)
"It would be an honor to find an address for Sister Carol Anne O'Marie, so that her fans could send her cards & letters. The hours and hours of reading enjoyment that she has given the world with her "Sister Mary Helen" Mystery Series is an absolute Blessing!" (Sallie Bourgeois)
To contact Sister Carol Anne O'Marie, you could contact her through her publisher at: St. Martin’s Press, ATTN: PUBLICITY DEPT.,175 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10010. Or, as you subsequently found, it would be even better to write to her: c/o Sisters of St. Joseph, Carondelet Center, 11999 Chalon Road, Los Angeles, CA 90049 as they will forward letters to her. (Philip Grosset)
How about Freda Bream's clerical detective?" (Valerie A Roth)
Many thanks for the suggestion. She is in the list on my introduction page of detectives not so far included, but I have been unable to get hold of her books except for the few that are only available in large print editions. (Philip Grosset)
Can you please advise me as to the correct pronunciation of the cloth 'LUYE' which appears in 'The Sempsters Tale' as I have never heard of it. ...LOOY ( / ) ... LOO-YAY ( / ) (Graeme Peacock)
Sorry, I don't really know, but there is a river in SE France called Luye, an area still known for cloth production, so I'd go for the French pronunciation. (Philip Grosset)
"I came across your site while researching Chesterton's Father Brown and found it fascinating! You have not included Father Paolo Baldi. Is this because, to the best of my knowledge, he has only appeared on the radio? I have listened to and enjoyed three or four series of half-hour playlets on BBC Radio 4, written I think by a variety of authors." (Paul Randall)
Yes, Father Paolo Baldi only seems to appear in radio plays. If he ever makes it to book form, I'll be pleased to include him! (Philip Grosset)
"How wonderful to find this site. I so enjoy finding more folks to read about. I have been reading clerical mysteries long before I became a clergyperson, but I enjoy them even more now that I have ten year's of parish ministry under my proverbial belt! Thank you for this site, for I would have had to create this site if you had not, and I think you've done it better! I salute you with gratitude!" (Lynn S. Smith-Roberts (Rev.))
"The Sister Fidelma mysteries are wonderful brain candy, and the authentic 7th century ambience gives a feeling of having a history lesson while being entertained. I do feel that the author has used up his lifetime allotment (perhaps even still overdrawing on his account!) of the word "grimace" which seems to be now a default word for telling us what characters' faces are doing. It is now a kind of running laugh between me and friends who introduced me to Fidelma and Eadulf. Could we have a book, no a chapter, even a page--without a gr..., gri...--I'm sorry, I can't say it. Thanks so much for making this part of history take on life and identity and making me care about it." (Alden Josey)
"Enjoyed the reviews. I have just discovered Dean Feldmeyer and was looking for more of his books. THANKS. Your reviews of his books are right on." (Mitch)
"Enjoy your site--I'm a Merrily Watkins fan and have been from the beginning of the series. One question: is Michelle Blake ever going to write another Lily Connor book?" (Kathryn MacAlister)
According to an interview on the Julia-Spencer Fleming site, a fourth book is under way. (Philip Grosset)
"As a boy I read a Dutch translation of "Waiting for Oliver" by Simon Troy and I always have kept a soft spot for the author. I'm glad I found out at this site that "Troy" was a pseudonym and I thank you for the short biography. There isn't by any chance a full length bio or some memoires?" (Paul Jacobs)
Sorry, I don't know of anything more on Thurman Warriner. (Philip Grosset)
"Hi. Sorry about the format on my blog Getting Medieval. I know that those with Firefox have a bad time with it. I just liked the format when I started it about two years ago now and it kind of stuck. Please give it a try anyway. And even though I don't have a clerical detective, I hope you and your readers will find my Crispin Guest mysteries just as fun to read as these others. Be on the lookout for Veil of Lies in the Fall of 2008." (Jeri Westerson)
I particularly like your interviews with Sharan Newman and Margaret Frazer - despite the odd format! (Philip Grosset)
"Kindly tell me the correct pronounciation for Josse d'Acquin. French/English/Spanish? Thank you." (Maureen Holmes-Higgin)
He was a French knight. Hope this helps! (Philip Grosset)
"Fascinating site - I came across it googling for D.M. Greenwood - for whom this is now undoubtedly the best source of information on the net. It is very sad that she appears to have stopped writing.
I am also not sure if you are aware that Wyatt James sadly died early last year (2006) - you can see his tribute page at http://www.dismantle.org/grobius.htm There are now problems getting into his site (mysterylist) and the link you are showing does not work. There are other ways back into the site but you can also find all his comments on Innes' books at the GA of Detection wiki...http://gadetection.pbwiki.com/Innes,%20Michael." (Nick Hay)
I've now removed the link to Mystery List from my Appleby page, but am glad that the comments on the Innes books are still available. (Philip Grosset}
"On your synopsis of Leonard Holton's book The Pact with Satan you suggest that Father Bredder uses old fashioned theology. Catholic theology and it's teachings are the same yesterday, today and forever and aren't subject to change (no matter what liberal so-called theologian has taught you) Change in teachings is what is called Protestism. As for his character saying tobacco was a gift from GOD, Catholics don't see tobacco, gambling, or liguor as evil only when the money used for them becomes excessive and hurts the family. Otherwise all is great with your website. May JESUS and his only Church guide you with his Teaching!!!!!!" (Ed)
"My wife and I have been reading mysteries for almost 30 years. While I recognize some of my favourite writers here, your site will be a useful reference for finding new ones. Thank you for setting it up. After 20 years of reading mysteries, we had read many great mystery writers and some not so. One night, I flung a particularly badly written tome across the room and said, "I can write better than this." My wife said, "Why don't you?" So far, three of my John Smyth mysteries have been published (Who's Grace?, Desolation Highway, and Mountaintop Drive). I would be interested in your opinion of them. John Smyth is editor of a denominational magazine in Canada. He is also named after the 17th-century English separatist who founded the first English Baptist church and who was the subject of my doctoral dissertation. (James R. Coggins, Abbotsford, B.C. Canada)
Thanks for suggesting your books. I enjoyed reading them and have now added a page about John Smyth. (Philip Grosset)
I don't know why but I have always liked Clerical Detectives and never found a site before yours. I loved all of Sister Joan series and didn't realize Black had written Vow of Evil (sorry to hear its not of the same quality of the others). Also read all of Rabbi Small. Hope to find great enjoyment in your other selections. Thank you," (Franklin Frandsen)
"You might like to add the following authors to your list of near clerical mysteries. Kate Charles wrote five mysteries with the central character of David Middleton-Brown, whose interest in church architecture & his dealings with the Anglican church are the basis for a marvellous series. A similar central character was church official Richard Hastings, created by Michael David Anthony. These mysteries are all within the Canterbury Cathedral community. Unfortunately Michael David Anthony wrote only three of this series before his death in 2003." (Trevene Shillam)
I don't really think that solicitor David Middleton-Brown could be counted as a clerical detective, but now that Kate Charles has introduced The Revd Callie Anson, I've added a page about her.
I had not heard of Michael David Anthony, but have now included Richard Harrison (not Hastings!). Many thanks for both suggestions. (Philip Grosset)
"I am trying to get a hold of James L. Johnson to let him know that I'm a friend of Farouk Hamouda's, who was your (Johnson's) heart surgeon. I went to Wheaton College and have gotten to know Farouk playing the piano at Von Maur in Lombard, where I still work. I also teach his young daughters piano lessons. I just wanted to inform you that today is his 70th birthday. He has had a stroke and heart attack himself but can still talk. It's just kind of hard to understand him. I thought you might want to call him to wish him a happy 70th birthday today (2/17/07). I'm going to read your book "Coming Back" that Farouk lent me. My husband and I are trying to be a witness to Farouk and have taken him to church a few times with us and we take him out to eat occasionally too!" (Robyn Vitson)
I'm afraid that James L Johnson died in 1987, aged 60. He had had major bypass surgery in 1978. (Philip Grosset)
"this is a very interesting site. i love reading Alys Clare's novels because i'm really fond of medieval times and the monastic life, and this great author bridges these two loves in one for me." (Robbie)
"This site is a treasure! I read what I think was the first Clare Munnings book and, because Jill Ker Conway is one of my heroines, have been looking for additional books by the Munnings duo. Dare I say I was "led" to this site? Now I've discovered lots of new clerical detective volumes to investigate and am hoping my library has at least some of them. Small correction: Margaret Coel's priest is Father O'Malley and the Indians he and Vicki aid are the Arapahos." (M.C. Bucholtz)
Many thanks for the corrections. I have now added Clare Munnings to the site. (Philip Grosset)
"Just wanted to say I thought the site was really good. Theodora Braithwaite and Sister Fidelma are two of my favourite detectives. As a Christian I find church history absolutely fascinating, and the DM Greenwood's books are a fascinating commentary on the state of the church today. I also love Inspector Appleby and Gervaise Fen. Appleby's End and The Moving Toyshop both had me in hysterics they are so funny. It was good to find a site with so much background information on them all and has given me some ideas for other authors to read." (Gillian Clarke)
"Hi Philip.Thanks for including me (and Hayden) on your Clerical Detective site! I apologize if I didn't answer your e-mails, but I don't think I received them. Anyway, this is a great site and I appreciate being part of it. Cheers. (Mark Schweizer)
"I love this site. Some of my favorite authors, and others to try." (Marilyn)
"I was DM Greenwood's editor and can perhaps answer any questions you might have about her, although we have not been in touch for some time." (Anne Williams)
"I gave one of your Sister Fidelma books to my 85 year old Father and he was sooooooo thrilled with the character and stories. He says he can picture Maureen O'Hara in the role! I have never seen him so excited about anything he has read in years. Thanks from me too." (Janet Cain)
"Mark - I met you at the KY book fair. I just finished the Alto Wore Tweed and LOVED IT! I'm an avid mystery reader and an episcopalian. In fact, my rector is a woman which made reading your book all the more fun. I've ordered your others and am curious when the next one is planned. Keep writing!" (Ruthe Holmberg)
I have forwarded your message to Mark Schweizer. (Philip Grosset)
"Is there still a Ellis Peters or Brother Cadfael Society that I may get in touch with? Many thanks" (Ann Bell)
Sue Feder, founder of The Ellis Peters Appreciation died in 2005, and I don't think that the Society survived her. (Philip Grosset).
"I am an Anglo-Saxonist, attempting to make a connection between a Lacnunga recipe for a "grene sealve" and the "green salve" that Cadfael uses to heal wounds. Can you tell me if Ellis Peters/Edith Pargeter was acquainted with any other Old English texts besides AElfric's list of plant names? Thanks for your help." (Marie Nelson)
Sorry, I can't help you. All I know is that Cadfael was said to have a copy of Aelfric's list. (Philip Grosset)
"Your section on William X. Kienzle's books referred to me as Jan. My name is Javan (10th Chapter Genesis). The reason I included the events about my own life and the dogs in Judged by Love, the biography of Bill, was because the events had a bearing on and interwove with Bill's life. For, as Bill often said, we were yin and yang. As I told a reporter after his death, I miss him as I would miss the ground beneath my feet. I will never be whole again without him." (Javan Kienzle)
Many thanks for writing. Sorry for the misprint that I have now corrected. I think Bill Kienzle was one of the very best writers of clerical detective stories. (Philip Grosset)
"Thanks for your note. I'm always interested in which of Bill's books readers find preferable in the series. Aside of "Rosary," which started the whole thing, "Mind Over Murder" was my own favorite. Despite the disclaimers, almost all the main characters were indeed based on real people, and the nasty monsignor in MOM was a particularly venial cleric whom diocesan readers recognized immediately. (He's dead now.) I think your thumbnail reviews of Bill's books are pretty much right on and reasonably fair. I myself didn't care for the "lighter" ones like "Assault With Intent" but then I like the old-fashioned English mystery novels myself. Again, thank you; it's obvious that you have done a tremendous amount of reading and research. I am in awe." (Javan Kienzle}
"I'm trying to track down information about Michael Gilbert's radio plays. Can you help?" (Gareth Tilley)
I'm afraid I can't, but see guestbook entry above for help. (Philip Grosset)
What a pity that D M Greenwood seems to have come to a halt. Her ecclesiastical mysteries are among the very best of English detective stories. Has she definitely retired from her writing career?" (Brian Butler)
D M Greenwood is one of the most elusive of all the writers featured on this site. All I know is that her last book was published in 1999. I too would welcome more information about her. (Philip Grosset).
"A recovering Catholic enjoying your books" (Pat Beatty)
Awsome site, very interesting and informative. I love all books, especially mysteries, history and bios. Thanks!" (Missoldlady)
"Hi thanks for your interesting article about Charlie Mortdecai, the Mortdecai ABC et al." (Chris)
"Hi, I typed in my mothers' pen-name (Edward Candy) and your site came up. I am the youngest of her five children and I was extremely pleased to find you like her detective books as much as I do. I too find her other books hard going but Fabian has always held a soft spot for me. My mother died of Motor Neurone Disease 13 years ago this October, but I'm sure she would have been pleased to be remembered.
I have been talking to my Dad today and he said that mum had published quite a lot of poetry before she married him and always under the name of Alison Boodson (see question about this below), and yes my Mum knew Tambi very well.
She wrote under the name of Edward Candy for two reasons apparently; firstly there was a shop near Fitzjohn Avenue called Edwards' Candy and also because the G.M.C. council frowned on any kind of self advertisement in those days so she had to safe guard her anonymity.
There is an archive of her work at Boston University in the U.S.A which was put together by a friend of hers called Howard J. Gottlieb, if that is of any academical help. My Dad was very touched that Mum is actually on the internet,so, thanks for making his day. Best Wishes." (Sarah Hiom [Neville])
"Very interesting and helpful." (Marty Nelson)
"Fascinating website, though it's poetry that interests me, primarily. Thanks very much for the information - I'm writing about Tambimuttu for an outfit called the Modernist Magazines Project. 'Alison Boodson' contributed poems to Poetry (London) No. X, the glorious book-thick issue, edited by Tambimuttu in 1944; and to The New British Poets edited by Kenneth Rexroth (1949). Tambimuttu describes her and another poet as 'under twenties', so her date of birth would check out. I would guess that she's the same person as Barbara Alison Boodson Neville - assuming Neville was her married name." (Jim Keery)
Thanks for the info about Alison Boodson. Her daughter (see above) confirms that she was indeed Barbara Alison Boodson Neville as you suggest. (Philip Grosset)
"I have a book by Mr. Charles Merrill Smith and it is called "Reverend Randolph And The Fall From Grace, Inc". I have been trying, all day, to get some information on it and I can't find anything anywhere. Perhaps you can help me. It is an uncorrected proof copyright 1979 for limited distribution. I have searched everywhere and none seem to exist. Can you help me with my curiosity about this book? Thank you." (Sarah)
"Reverend Randollph And The Fall From Grace, Inc." was, I think, first published in 1979 by G P Putnam's Sons in New York. Subsequent paperback copies were published by Avon Books in 1982. I give basic info about the author on my Randollph page. Hope this helps. (Philip Grosset)
"I have always been interested in places associated with writers. Lately I have been combining this with my liking for Real Ale - and researching literary pubs. You can preview my 'work in progress' at: http://www.homestead-bb.co.uk/litpubs/index.html. I'd be grateful to know about any leads I have missed.
I was sad to learn through your website of the death of Michael Gilbert. I interviewed him at his home in Kent back in 1988 for a literary magazine - he was a real gent." (Terry Townsend)
"How nice to read such an accurate and well written piece on one of my favorites authors. And a very good selection of quotes. A film being made are you saying??? And what about traductions , Spanish and Japanese I read about, but I'm wondering about French." (Etienne)
Assuming you are referring to Kyril Bonfiglioli, his book The Great Moustache Mystery is being filmed with Sacha Baron-Cohen (see photo on the right) cast as Mortdecai. (Philip Grosset)
"first its adso of melk not elk. second it is nice that some people unlike others care for helping others by sharing their knowledge with them for free. thanks for the help, but i was hoping to find something related to eco and historiographic metafiction for my finals. anyway it is a good contribution." (Marcel Najm)
Thanks for telling me about the misprint on my William of Baskerville page. I've corrected this now. (Philip Grosset)
"Your site rocks! I though I was the only one who remembered the "Rabbi" Mysteries and Reverend Randolph series. I loved them all. I am in the process of seeking these fun books out to re-read. Thank you for having such complete list. I will be checking out the other series that I have missed.
I was so disappointed that Mr. Terrance Lore Smith had died. Yes, I could tell roughly where his father had left off and his son continued the stories. I am not a clerical scholar, so that nuance in the writing missed me. I really loved the series. I have been waiting for more Rabbi Winter books. Thanks again for the head's up on your site. it is bookmarked!" (Jan Wells)
"I am not a mystery fan, but I want to read ONE of the Rabbi Small books to get a feeling for the style and content. The first book in a series is not always the best. Please recommend one that is a good representative of Kemelman's body of work. Thank you." (Marian Bock NYC)
I quite agree that the first book in a series isn't always the best, but even so, in this case, I'd go for the first Rabbi Small novel, 'The Rabbi Slept Late' (1964), as this won the Mystery Writers of America Edgar Allan Poe Award, and got the series off to a good start. (Philip Grosset)
"Thank you so much! I think I will start with 'The Rabbi Slept Late' (1964) and then jump to "Conversations with," since I'm more interested in the Jewish philosophy than in who-did-it." (Marian Bock)
"A very good appraisal of Michael Innes although it would seem you Yanks don't always appreciate the humour of we Brits (though technically both Innes and myself are Celts!). I have known about Innes for years because I am a librarian but only started reading him recently. I think his books are great and am a huge fan. I love all the recondite allusions etc. also, "lament for a maker" is one of my faves and I find the opening moonlight snow sequence in "Appleby's End" one of the most moving passages of english prose I have ever read. Keep up the good work. ps have you ever read Charles Willeford?, I think you'd like him." (Margaret Mcdermott)
"I've just discovered your wonderful site, via the MysteryFile site, and am looking forward to reading it all when I have the time. I would like to suggest another clerical detective who doesn't seem to be included yet - Sister Joan of the series by Veronica Black. There are at least ten of them and she's my second most favourite - right after Theodora Braithwaite.' (Betty Harris)
Many thanks for the suggestion. I''ve just added Sister Agnes (Alison Joseph), Rabbi Winter (Joseph Telushkin), Archdeacon Toft (Thurman Warriner) and Dan Thompson (Dean Feldmeyer). I wasn't at first so impressed by Sister Joan, but have now been won over and added a page about her too. (Philip Grosset)
"Thank you for such an interesting view of early Irish life. Where are the manuscripts from that time that were so carefully created by the monks at the time of Sister Fidelma?" (Sylvia)
The earliest surviving (badly damaged) Irish manuscript (Cathach of Colmcille) dates from the late 6th/early 7th century, just before the time of Fidelma, and is at the Royal Irish Academy in Dublin. The psalms in it are said to be copied by Columba himself. The famous Book of Kells, seen on the right, is later - around 800 AD - and can be seen in the Trinity College Library, Dublin. (Philip Grosset)
The attractive cover you show was from a Faber reprint,- I'm not sure of the date & sadly haven't got it. I think it may be by Edward Ardizzone, the very distinguished artist and illustrator who did the dust jackets for An English Murder & That Yew Tree's Shade (the view of Yew Hill was the view of Box Hill from my bedroom window!)