Venture into the mist-shrouded world of the Hawkenlye Mysteries, where medieval England’s secrets unravel in thrilling whodunits! Penned by Alys Clare, this captivating series blends historical richness with gripping murder mysteries, following the sharp-witted Abbess Helewise and knight Josse d’Acquin as they solve crimes in 12th-century Kent. Perfect for fans of Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael, Hawkenlye invites you to step back in time and uncover tales of faith, intrigue, and valor.
From the sacred halls of Hawkenlye Abbey to the wild Wealden Forest, each novel paints a vivid picture of life under Richard the Lionheart’s reign. With its blend of historical detail and page-turning plots, this series is a hidden gem for mystery lovers craving an atmospheric escape.
How Hawkenlye Began
Alys Clare, the pseudonym of Elizabeth Harris, crafted the Hawkenlye Mysteries inspired by her deep connection to the English countryside. Raised near Tonbridge, Kent, Clare drew from the area’s chalybeate springs and ancient relics to create the fictional Hawkenlye Abbey. Her background in archaeology and love for medieval history fueled the series’ authentic setting. Launched in 1999 with Fortune Like the Moon, the series grew from Clare’s desire to weave historical accuracy with compelling detective tales, introducing the dynamic duo of Helewise and Josse.
The Heart of Hawkenlye
The series kicks off with Fortune Like the Moon, where a young nun’s brutal murder threatens King Richard’s coronation. Josse, sent to investigate, teams up with the astute Abbess Helewise, setting the stage for their crime-solving partnership. Ashes of the Elements dives into a lumberjack’s murder in Wealden Forest, with locals blaming mythical forest folk—until Helewise uncovers darker truths. The Tavern in the Morning sees Josse tackling a poisoned meat pie case, while A Dark Night Hidden explores tensions between Christian and pagan beliefs as the duo confronts a fanatical priest.
Hawkenlye’s charm lies in its rich themes: the clash of Christian and pagan traditions, the gritty realities of medieval life, and the interplay of faith and reason. Clare’s prose brings 12th-century England to life, from the healing springs of Hawkenlye Abbey to the political intrigues of the Crusades. The series’ supernatural undertones, rooted in the era’s beliefs, add a mystical layer, making each mystery a blend of historical and fantastical intrigue.
While the dialogue occasionally feels modern, Clare’s vivid storytelling and well-crafted characters keep readers hooked. Helewise’s intelligence and Josse’s loyalty create a partnership that evolves across the series, offering both emotional depth and investigative thrills.
Why Hawkenlye Resonates
The Hawkenlye Mysteries have carved a niche among historical mystery fans, often compared to the Cadfael series for their immersive settings and clever plots. With 17 novels, the series has built a loyal following, praised for its atmospheric storytelling and strong female protagonist in Helewise. Its exploration of medieval religious tensions and social dynamics offers timeless insights, resonating with readers curious about the past.
Clare’s ability to balance historical grit with mystical allure ensures Hawkenlye’s lasting appeal. Fans on platforms like Goodreads celebrate its detailed world-building and engaging mysteries, cementing its status as a must-read for genre enthusiasts.
- First Published: 1999 (Fortune Like the Moon)
- Total Books: 17
- Setting: 12th-century Kent, England
- Key Characters: Abbess Helewise, Josse d’Acquin
Grab Fortune Like the Moon and dive into Hawkenlye’s world of medieval mysteries, where every shadow hides a secret!