A Snake in the Barley - (Owen Archer Mystery) by Candace Robb (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Where is taverner Tom Merchet? Owen Archer unearths a series of troubling secrets and a dangerous foe intent on retribution when his good friend goes missing.

"A standout . . . Robb reinforces her place among the top writers of medieval historicals" - Publishers Weekly Starred Review

York, 1377. Owen Archer is determined to find his friend, taverner Tom Merchet, who has been missing for five days. His wife, Bess, is frantic with worry.

AN ENIGMATIC STRANGER.

Who is the elusive Widow Cobb that Tom was seen visiting? And who is the man spotted following Tom before he vanished? As Owen hunts for clues, Bess decides to visit the widow's lodgings and makes a terrifying discovery.

RETRIBUTION IS BREWING . . .

Owen digs up past sins and long-buried secrets that answer some of the questions surrounding Tom's disappearance. But who is the sly and malevolent figure intent on destroying his friend, and why? A shocking confession will rock Owen to his core . . .

An action-packed, evocative and masterfully plotted medieval mystery in the critically acclaimed Owen Archer series, perfect for fans of C.J. Sansom, Ellis Peters and Paul Doherty.

Review Quotes

Tense and dark-- "The Historical Novels Review"

Political intrigue, deception, violence, thievery, and a family's quest for revenge . . . a fine read for genre fans-- "Booklist"

A story of love, danger,
and political intrigue sure to please history buffs-- "Kirkus Reviews"

A detailed ramble through 1376 York peopled by a brace of engaging characters-- "Kirkus Reviews on A Fox in the Fold"

A highlight in a solid series-- "Publishers Weekly on The Riverwoman's Dragon"

A melange of medieval political plotting . . . Sure to please fans of historical mysteries-- "Kirkus Reviews on A Choir of Crows"

A multitude of new and old supporting characters round out the delightful cast and contribute to the twists and turns of the compelling plot-- "Booklist on A Conspiracy of Wolves"

A standout . . . Robb reinforces her place among the top writers of medieval historicals-- "Publishers Weekly Starred Review of A Fox in the Fold"

Magda, who's appeared in many of Owen's adventures, is the rightful star of this tale of murder, betrayal, and superstition-- "Kirkus Reviews on The Riverwoman's Dragon"

Recommended for fans of historical writers such as C.J. Sansom, Ellis Peters and Sharon Kay Penman-- "Library Journal on A Conspiracy of Wolves"

Robb once again effectively blends crime with the politics of 14th-century England-- "Publishers Weekly on A Choir of Crows"