In 14th century York the city's ageing archbishop, one of the most powerful men in the country, is dying.

While important families vie to appoint his successor, the king's wife seeks his advice on who she can trust in the North.

Soon the city is full of royals, nobles and church people each with their own political or personal agenda.

Owen Archer, the archbishop's captain of the guards, has the dangerous task of policing this hotbed of intrigue and deception.

One murder follows another and Archer fears for the future of the country as well as the safety of his VIP visitors.

This latest Archer whodunnit reads almost like a traditional country manor "locked room" mystery.

It's a very enjoyable read for history-mystery fans, even if there are a few too many characters.

David Knights