Step into the vibrant streets of Restoration London, where Christopher Redmayne, a dashing architect with a knack for solving mysteries, brings history to life! Edward Marston’s Christopher Redmayne series is a delightful blend of historical fiction and gripping whodunits, set against the backdrop of a city rebuilding after the Great Fire of 1666. With Puritan constable Jonathan Bale by his side, Redmayne tackles crimes that unravel the secrets of 17th-century England, making this series a must-read for fans of historical mysteries.
Marston, a pseudonym for Keith Miles, crafts a world where architectural ingenuity meets sleuthing prowess, offering readers a fresh take on the genre. Whether you’re drawn to the intrigue of royal courts or the grit of London’s underbelly, this series promises adventure at every turn.
How Christopher Redmayne Began
Edward Marston, a prolific British author born in 1940, created the Christopher Redmayne series to explore the dynamic era of Restoration England. Inspired by his love for historical settings, Marston drew on his background in modern history from Oxford to craft a vivid portrayal of 1660s London. Launched in 1999 with The King’s Evil, the series reflects Marston’s fascination with periods of transformation, blending meticulous research with engaging storytelling. His goal was to pair Redmayne’s cavalier charm with Bale’s steadfast morality, creating a duo that mirrors the era’s social tensions.
The Heart of Christopher Redmayne
The series spans six novels, each a standalone mystery enriched by the evolving partnership between Redmayne and Bale. The King’s Evil (1999) introduces Redmayne as he investigates the murder of Sir Ambrose Northcott, navigating brothels and royal courts to uncover a conspiracy. The Amorous Nightingale (2000) follows the kidnapping of a celebrated singer, Harriet Gow, blending romance and danger. The Repentant Rake (2001) sees the duo tackling a blackmailer terrorizing London’s elite, while The Frost Fair (2003) delivers a chilling murder mystery set on the frozen Thames.
Marston’s novels shine through their vivid depiction of Restoration London, from its bustling theaters to its smoky taverns. Themes of social contrast—between Redmayne’s aristocratic flair and Bale’s puritanical rigor—drive the narrative, highlighting the era’s political and cultural shifts. The series’ style is accessible yet rich, with plots that balance action, humor, and historical detail, making it perfect for readers seeking both entertainment and insight into 17th-century life.
Why Christopher Redmayne Resonates
The Christopher Redmayne series captivates readers with its immersive storytelling and relatable characters. Fans praise Marston’s ability to weave historical accuracy with page-turning plots, offering a window into a pivotal moment in English history. The dynamic between Redmayne and Bale, marked by mutual respect despite their differences, resonates as a timeless exploration of unlikely alliances. Though less known than Marston’s other works like The Railway Detective, the series has a dedicated following among historical mystery enthusiasts, cementing its niche appeal.
Its legacy lies in its ability to transport readers to a bygone era while keeping them guessing until the final page. For those who love uncovering hidden gems, Christopher Redmayne is a treasure worth discovering.
- About Christopher Redmayne
- Publication Years: 1999–2007
- Number of Books: 6
- Setting: Restoration London, 1660s–1670s
- Author: Edward Marston (Keith Miles)
Ready to explore the cobbled streets of 17th-century London? Grab The King’s Evil and dive into Christopher Redmayne’s thrilling world of mystery and history!