Step into the shadowy streets of 12th-century Worcestershire, where the Bradecote and Catchpoll Investigation series by Sarah Hawkswood weaves gripping medieval mysteries! Set during the chaotic reign of King Stephen, this historical fiction gem follows Undersheriff Hugh Bradecote and the wily Serjeant Catchpoll as they unravel murders with wit, grit, and a touch of medieval flair. Perfect for fans of Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael, this series blends rich historical detail with clever plotting that keeps you guessing.
From arson to assassination, each book plunges readers into a world of moral dilemmas, gritty justice, and vibrant characters. Whether you’re a history buff or a mystery lover, the series’ immersive storytelling and dynamic duo make it a must-read adventure.
How Bradecote and Catchpoll Investigation Began
Sarah Hawkswood, a historian with a passion for medieval life, crafted the Bradecote and Catchpoll series after studying Modern History at Oxford. Inspired by Worcestershire’s rich past and the turmoil of The Anarchy—a civil war between King Stephen and Empress Maud—she set out to create authentic mysteries that feel like stepping into the 1140s. Her pen name, borrowed from a great-grandmother, adds a personal touch to her work. Hawkswood’s goal? To build a vivid world where readers live alongside her characters, not just observe them.
Published by Allison & Busby, the series debuted in 2014 with Servant of Death (also known as The Lord Bishop’s Clerk). Hawkswood’s shift from military history to fiction allowed her to explore the human side of medieval justice, pairing the novice Bradecote with the seasoned Catchpoll for a dynamic investigative team.
The Heart of Bradecote and Catchpoll Investigation
The series kicks off with Servant of Death (June 1143), where a despised clerk is bludgeoned in Pershore Abbey, forcing Bradecote and Catchpoll to navigate a web of suspects. Ordeal by Fire (September 1143) sees the duo tackling a string of arson attacks in Worcester, revealing a vengeful killer. In Marked to Die (October 1143), a mysterious archer terrorizes the salt road, blending action with intricate clues. A Taste for Killing (January 1145) delivers a chilling poisoning case, testing the team’s bonds as Bradecote faces personal fears.
Themes of justice, loyalty, and morality run deep, set against the backdrop of The Anarchy’s lawlessness. Hawkswood’s prose captures the era’s grit—think muddy streets, feudal tensions, and candlelit interrogations—while her characters shine. Bradecote, the educated lord, grows into his role, while Catchpoll’s street-smarts and grim humor steal scenes. Their evolving partnership, joined later by apprentice Walkelin, grounds the series’ complex plots. The setting, from Worcester’s bustling markets to eerie forests, feels alive, making each mystery a journey through time.
Hawkswood’s style balances historical accuracy with accessibility. You’ll find no info-dumps here—just seamless details about medieval life, from salt trade disputes to the power of sheriffs. The series’ standalone nature means you can jump in anywhere, though the characters’ personal arcs reward loyal readers.
Why Bradecote and Catchpoll Investigation Resonates
The Bradecote and Catchpoll series has carved a niche among historical mystery fans for its authentic portrayal of 12th-century life and compelling sleuths. Readers praise Hawkswood’s ability to make the past feel immediate, with reviews calling her work “a joy” and “compulsively readable.” The series’ focus on human-driven detection—relying on clues and cunning, not modern forensics—offers a refreshing contrast to contemporary crime novels.
Its lasting appeal lies in its characters and setting. Catchpoll’s sardonic wit and Bradecote’s growth resonate with readers, while Worcestershire’s vivid depiction feels like a character itself. As the series grows, with 13 books by 2025 and more planned, it continues to captivate those craving immersive, intelligent mysteries.
- First Book: Servant of Death (2014)
- Latest Book: Feast for the Ravens (2025)
- Number of Books: 13 (as of 2025)
- Publisher: Allison & Busby
Ready to solve medieval murders with Bradecote and Catchpoll? Grab Servant of Death and dive into this captivating world of mystery and history!