Book Review: A Play of Dux Moraud

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

A Play of Dux Moraud     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Margaret Frazer
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Historical
Series: Joliffe and Company # 2
Berkley, August 2005, $6.99, 273 pp.

Since they acquired Lord Lovell as their patron, players (actors) Basset, Joliffe, Elis,Rose and her son have a feeling of security that was missing in their lives and they intend to do everything in their power to please his so he will keep on supporting the troupe. After performing in his home for Michalmas, Lord Lovell asks them to journey to the manor home of his vassal Sir Edmund

Sir Edmund’s daughter is getting ready to wed a wealthy merchant but Lord Lovell is uneasy because her first betrothal ended when her bridegroom to be died quite suddenly. He wants the players, to see if there is any sense of wrong doing going on in Deneby Manor. When they arrive, they find a husband and wife barely talking to one another, a mother and the bride at each others throats and Sir Edmund’s heir having “accidents”. Joliffe discovers there is corruption in the Deneby finally that has led to one murder and very will might lead to others.

Set in the same universe as Margaret Frazier’s Dame Frevisse mysteries, A PLAY OF DUX MORAUD is a meticulously researched, well written historical mystery that brings to life a bygone era. The working of society as seen through the eyes of the players is entertaining and full of unexpected surprises that add drama and color to the storyline. Historical mystery fans will love this series.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner