Picture a Michigan history teacher spinning tales of medieval intrigue—meet Mel Starr! This beloved author transformed his passion for the past into the gripping Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon, a series that whisks readers to 14th-century England with vivid detail and clever mysteries. Starr’s knack for blending historical accuracy with engaging storytelling has earned him a loyal following among fans of historical fiction.
Born and raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Starr’s journey from classroom to bookshelf is as fascinating as his novels. His love for history and storytelling shines through in every page, making him a standout voice in medieval mysteries.
The Making of Mel Starr
Mel Starr grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where his curiosity about the past took root. After earning an MA in history from Western Michigan University in 1970, he dedicated 39 years to teaching history in Michigan public schools, retiring in 2003 as chairman of the social studies department at Portage Northern High School. His deep knowledge of medieval England, sparked by years of research and a family connection to a medieval surgeon ancestor, inspired him to try his hand at fiction. In 2008, Starr published his debut novel, The Unquiet Bones, launching a career that would captivate readers worldwide.
Mel Starr’s Unforgettable Stories
Starr’s Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon series is the heart of his literary legacy. Set in the 1360s in Bampton, Oxfordshire, the series follows Hugh de Singleton, a surgeon and bailiff who solves murders with wit and medical expertise. The first book, The Unquiet Bones (2008), introduces Hugh as he investigates a young woman’s remains found in a castle cesspit, blending gruesome clues with droll humor. A Corpse at St. Andrew’s Chapel (2009) deepens the mystery with a beadle’s brutal murder, while A Trail of Ink (2010) weaves in a romantic subplot as Hugh searches for a wife. Later titles like The Easter Sepulchre (2020) and The Way of the Wicked (2024) showcase Starr’s ability to keep the series fresh with intricate plots and rich historical detail.
Starr’s writing style is immersive yet accessible, painting a vivid picture of medieval life—from the taste of pottage to the tension of village feuds. His meticulous research shines through in details about medical practices, social hierarchies, and even the Church of St. Mary the Virgin in Bampton, a real location featured in his books. Fans praise his authentic voice and the way he balances suspense with Hugh’s personal journey, including his faith and family life.
Why Mel Starr Matters
Mel Starr’s impact lies in his ability to make history feel alive and relatable. His novels transport readers to a time of plague and piety, offering both entertainment and education. By grounding his mysteries in real historical figures like John Wycliffe and actual locations like Bampton Castle, Starr bridges the gap between past and present. His work appeals to fans of authors like C.J. Sansom and Ellis Peters, earning accolades for its authentic atmosphere and engaging plots. Starr’s dedication to his craft has also fostered a devoted readership, with fans eagerly awaiting each new chronicle.
- Born: Kalamazoo, Michigan
- Key Works: The Unquiet Bones, A Corpse at St. Andrew’s Chapel, A Trail of Ink, The Way of the Wicked
- Fun Fact: Starr’s books support a fund for a new roof at the Church of St. Mary the Virgin in Bampton.
Snag The Unquiet Bones and dive into Mel Starr’s enchanting world of medieval mysteries!