I felt really bad for her in this situation because even the best cops can’t see rat even in the heavy embrace of passion, it gets in the way, but once a cop, always a cop, she will route it out. Feudalism – the system under which Isabel’s family were required to work for nothing on Sir Edmund’s land – was severely weakened, as was the power of the church. I got totally caught up in events, guessing some right and getting others completely wrong but that’s all part of the fun. The constantly changing narrators make the pace snappy, other readers may find that they aren’t left alone with them enough to get to know them, but personally I found it drove the plot forward and made it an easy read-this is hopefully coming across as a compliment as I find some crime novels tend to over fill short chapters and somehow slow down the pace.

The Black Death, or pestilence as it is referred to in the novel, was brought about by a deadly illness that spread through Europe killing at least a third of its population.But, after being lured in by the sinister premise I was easily able to pick up All Fall Down, I wasn’t disappointed with Arlidge delivering a twisted delight, a darkly gripping tale and I thoroughly enjoy it. The sheer drudgery of life at that time and the pervasive presence of the church and religion is powerfully described.

Sometimes the walls that stand between us and our neighbours are all that stand between our country and war. The age level is a little lower than I usually read, I would classify this book as a middle grade for ages 12-16. Early in the thirteenth century, Elinor's parents attempt to marry her off to an elderly nobleman but she escapes disguised as a boy, with a troupe of travelling entertainers.With journalist Elena Garanita trying to muscle in as much as she can, trying to get the best scoops, using whatever tactics she can, most of the time not being helpful, just totally focused on what she can get to further her career, as well as trying to make the police look bad, or something to use as leverage. I am a huge fan of DI Helen Grace series and the newest addition is another fantastic book from the author. DS Joseph Hudson has an air of trouble to him, selfishness and anger that simmers beneath the surface. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives and builds to a high octane climax, showdown and satisfying conclusion.