Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner
Cure For a Charlatan
Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Caroline Roe
Class/Genre: Mystery Historical Ethnic
Series: Isaac of Girona # 2
Berkley, Feb 1999, $5.99, 272 pp.
In 1353 Girona, Spain, the sudden death of three healthy, but discontented youths stun the townsfolk. Aaron the Baker's son, Loren, the seminarian's son, and Marc the weaver's son all die in the same horrific way. Most of the local residents believe evil witchcraft killed the three lads. However, the blind Jewish physician Isaac thinks it is more likely that mortal happenings occurred. He strongly feels an unknown assailant poisoned the trio.
Hysteria grips the town as any female could now be accused of practicing witchcraft by people seeking retaliation. Isaac, accompanied by his apprentice Yusef and his daughter-assistant Raquel, races against time to prove that a devious and deadly con artist is behind the apparent devilish disease.
Fans of historical mysteries will know that Caroline Roe is the real deal with her latest Isaac who-done-it. The story line is filled with detail and action that paints a panorama of Medieval Spain, especially the Jewish quarter. The medical mystery is absolutely awesome, but it is the depth to all the characters that turn this into one of the best historical mystery entries. CURE FOR A CHARLATAN and CHRONICLES OF ISAAC OF GIRONA are first rate reads.
Harriet Klausner
Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner
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