Book Review: A Conspiracy of Violence: Chaloner's First Exploit in Restoration London

Susanna Gregory is well known for her series of medieval mysteries set in Cambridge featuring Matthew Bartholomew. Now, she moves forward in time to 1662 London, during the early years of the Restoration.

Thomas Chaloner, a spy, has just returned from ten years abroad. Given the recent events of the Restoration, he finds work hard to come by, but eventually secures a place with the Earl of Clarendon and is sent to investigate rumours of a cache of gold buried in the Tower of London. However, Chaloner soon discovers that there is much more behind this than meets the eye and his own life is soon in danger.

Susanna Gregory’s medieval Cambridge mysteries have always been excellent and A CONSPIRACY OF VIOLENCE is another example of her versatile talent. She brings Restoration London vibrantly to life, creating a powerful sense of place and an aura of mystery and menace.

Thomas Chaloner is an outstanding character and Gregory makes a superb choice in introducing him in media res. Rather than beginning at the beginning, she launches into Chaloner’s adventures in London, leaving her room in later books to write about his ten years of exploits overseas. Chaloner is already multidimensional in this story, but I have no doubt that there is plenty more material in him.

In her Matthew Bartholomew Chronicles, Gregory tries to include as much humour as possible. Here, the period and setting make for an altogether darker story, but humour is injected from time to time nonetheless, particularly through some of Chaloner’s wry comments. The novel is long but in many ways, it reminds me of some of the classic mystery tales, such as those written by Wilkie Collins.

There is no doubt at all in my mind that this new series will be just as successful as Gregory’s other novels. It is well written, tightly plotted and with enough twists, turns and intrigue to keep the most ardent of mystery readers guessing. Highly recommended.

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Luke Croll - RAM