Step into the shadowy alleys of 14th-century London with the Crispin Guest Medieval Noir series, where a disgraced knight turned detective unravels mysteries as gritty as the streets he roams! Crafted by Jeri Westerson, this captivating blend of historical fiction and hard-boiled noir follows Crispin Guest, a man stripped of his title but not his honor, as he navigates a world of holy relics, political intrigue, and murder. With its vivid medieval backdrop and pulse-pounding plots, this series is a must-read for fans of historical mysteries with a dark, detective twist.
From the moment Crispin steps onto the page, you’re hooked by his sharp wit and unyielding quest for justice. Whether you’re a history buff or a mystery lover, the Crispin Guest Medieval Noir series promises a thrilling ride through a world where danger lurks in every shadow.
How Crispin Guest Medieval Noir Began
Jeri Westerson, a Los Angeles native with a passion for medieval history, launched the Crispin Guest series in 2008 with Veil of Lies. Inspired by the gritty detective tales of Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett, Westerson envisioned a medieval Sam Spade—a tough, flawed hero who could bring noir sensibilities to 14th-century England. Crispin, a knight disgraced for treason against King Richard II, emerged as the perfect protagonist: a man forced to reinvent himself as the 'Tracker,' a private investigator for hire. Westerson’s background in graphic design and journalism honed her knack for vivid storytelling, making the series a standout in the medieval mystery genre.
The Heart of Crispin Guest Medieval Noir
The series spans 15 books, each plunging Crispin into a new web of intrigue. In Veil of Lies (2008), Crispin investigates a merchant’s murder and a missing holy relic, uncovering secrets that threaten war. Serpent in the Thorns (2009) sees him entangled in a plot involving a French courier’s death, while Troubled Bones (2011) takes him to Canterbury, where he grapples with murder among pilgrims, including a cameo from Geoffrey Chaucer. Shadow of the Alchemist (2013) pits Crispin against the legendary Nicholas Flamel in a quest for the Philosopher’s Stone.
Themes of honor, redemption, and justice weave through every tale. Crispin’s fall from grace fuels his complex character—proud yet vulnerable, romantic yet cynical. The vivid setting of medieval London, with its muddy streets, bustling taverns, and looming castles, grounds the series in rich historical detail. Westerson’s noir style infuses the stories with a dark, suspenseful edge, blending medieval sensibilities with modern detective tropes. Fans love the dynamic between Crispin and his cutpurse apprentice, Jack Tucker, whose loyalty and street-smarts add humor and heart.
Why Crispin Guest Medieval Noir Resonates
The Crispin Guest series has carved a niche in historical fiction, earning nominations for prestigious awards like the Macavity, Shamus, and Agatha. Its blend of meticulous historical research and gripping mystery appeals to readers who crave authenticity with a side of suspense. Crispin’s journey from nobleman to streetwise detective resonates as a timeless tale of resilience, while the series’ exploration of medieval society—its class divides, religious fervor, and political machinations—offers a window into a fascinating era. Fans on platforms like Goodreads praise its immersive world and compelling characters, cementing its cult status among medieval mystery enthusiasts.
- First Book: Veil of Lies (2008)
- Total Books: 15, ending with The Deadliest Sin (2021)
- Awards: Nominated for Macavity, Shamus, Agatha, and more
- Setting: 14th-century London and beyond
Grab Veil of Lies and dive into the Crispin Guest Medieval Noir series’ thrilling world of medieval mystery! Whether you’re chasing clues with Crispin or dodging danger in London’s underbelly, this series delivers a historical adventure you won’t forget.