Dive into the sun-drenched, intrigue-laden streets of 15th-century Spain with the Thomas Berrington Historical Mystery series by David Penny! This captivating blend of historical fiction and gripping mystery follows Thomas Berrington, an English physician with a knack for unraveling secrets amidst the fading glory of Moorish al-Andalus. Perfect for fans of historical whodunits, this series transports readers to a world of political tension, cultural richness, and pulse-pounding suspense.
With its vivid settings and complex characters, the Thomas Berrington Historical Mystery series offers a fresh take on the historical mystery genre, weaving real history with fictional intrigue. Ready to join Thomas and his enigmatic companion Jorge on a thrilling journey? Let’s explore what makes this series a hidden gem!
How Thomas Berrington Historical Mystery Began
David Penny, a former science fiction author, returned to writing after a 40-year hiatus, inspired by the vibrant history of Moorish Spain. Fascinated by the turbulent final years of al-Andalus (1482–1492), Penny crafted a series around an unlikely hero: Thomas Berrington, an English émigré physician. His vision was to blend gritty detective work with the rich tapestry of 15th-century Spain, a period rarely explored in mystery fiction. Starting with The Red Hill in 2014, Penny independently published the series, drawing readers into a world of sultans, queens, and shadowy killers.
The Heart of Thomas Berrington Historical Mystery
The series spans nine novels, each a standalone mystery tied to the broader arc of Moorish Spain’s decline. In The Red Hill (2014), Thomas investigates brutal murders in the Alhambra palace, navigating court intrigue alongside his friend Jorge, a charismatic eunuch. Breaker of Bones (2015) takes Thomas to Cordoba, where a deranged killer crafts grotesque figures from victims’ bodies, testing his resolve. The Sin Eater (2016) sees him in Garnatah, unraveling mysterious deaths while facing personal chaos. The Inquisitor (2018) plunges Thomas into plague-ridden Sevilla, tackling a killer amidst the Spanish Inquisition’s grip.
Themes of loyalty, identity, and cultural clash permeate the series. Thomas, an outsider in Moorish society, grapples with his place in a world torn between Islamic and Christian powers. Penny’s evocative prose brings settings like Granada’s Alhambra and Cordoba’s ancient streets to life, blending historical accuracy with suspenseful pacing. The dynamic between Thomas and Jorge—part Sherlock and Watson, part odd-couple friendship—adds humor and heart, making each mystery as much about relationships as it is about crime.
Why Thomas Berrington Historical Mystery Resonates
The Thomas Berrington Historical Mystery series has carved a niche among historical fiction fans for its unique setting and compelling storytelling. Readers praise Penny’s ability to weave historical figures like Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand into fictional narratives, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal era. The series’ blend of mystery, action, and cultural insight appeals to those craving immersive, lesser-known historical settings. Its independent publishing success highlights its grassroots appeal, with fans eagerly awaiting potential new installments.
- Publication Years: 2014–2020
- Number of Books: 9 full-length novels, plus a prequel
- Setting: Moorish Spain, 1482–1492
- Genre: Historical Mystery
Grab The Red Hill and step into the Thomas Berrington Historical Mystery series’ vibrant, suspense-filled world! Whether you’re a history buff or a mystery lover, Thomas and Jorge’s adventures will keep you hooked.