Review of A Trail of Ink

A Trail of Ink by Mel Starr is the third book of the Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton. This is such a unique book, as it is a mystery set in medieval times.

Some valuable books have been stolen from Master John Wyclif, the well known scholar and Bible translator. He calls upon his friend and former pupil, Hugh de Singleton, to investigate. Hugh's investigation leads him to Oxford where he again encounters Kate, the only woman who has tempted him to leave bachelor life behind, but Kate has another serious suitor. As Hugh's pursuit of Kate becomes more successful, mysterious accidents begin to occur. Are these accidents tied to the missing books, or to his pursuit of Kate?


One of the stolen books turns up alongside the drowned body of a poor Oxford scholar. Another accident? Hugh certainly doesn't think so, but it will take all of his surgeon's skills to prove that it is no accident.

This book definitely was different for me. It took me while to get into the whole plot and story, but it was so enjoyable. I loved following this medieval surgeon as he uses his medical knowledge, common sense, and a whole lot of investigating. The religious element was also well done. I felt immersed into medieval culture, and I applaud the author for what I am sure must have been lots of hours studying the culture. The romance element added to the appeal to women, so both guys and gals can enjoy this book. The romance is light and does not weight down the plot at all.

My only complaint is that women of ill-repute and place that they work in are mentioned.

All in all, I rate this book four out of five stars. Definitely a different book. Different is good! 

Specifics:
Paperback: 240 pages
Publisher: Monarch Books (February 28, 2011)


About the Author, Mel Starr:

Mel Starr was born and grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan. After graduating with a MA in history from Western Michigan University in 1970, he taught history in Michigan public schools for thirty-nine years, thirty-five of those in Portage, MI, where he retired in 2003 as chairman of the social studies department of Portage Northern High School. Mel and his wife, Susan, have two daughters and seven grandchildren. www.melstarr.org

Note: Thanks to Litfuse and the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes.

Blessings,