Book Review: Sword of Shadows by Jeri Westerson

Publisher: Severn House

Date: 2020

Genre: Historical Fiction/Mystery

Plot: London, 1396. A trip to the swordsmith shop for Crispin Guest, Tracker of London, and his apprentice Jack Tucker takes an unexpected turn when Crispin crosses paths with Carantok Teague, a Cornish treasure hunter. Carantok has a map he is convinced will lead him to the sword of Excalibur – a magnificent relic dating back to King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table – and he wants Crispin to help him find it.

Travelling to Tintagel Castle in Cornwall with Carantok and Jack, Crispin is soon reunited with an old flame as he attempts to locate the legendary sword. But does Excalibur really exist, or is he on an impossible quest? When a body is discovered, Crispin’s search for treasure suddenly turns into a hunt for a dangerous killer.

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I received Sword of Shadows from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I read my first Jeri Westerson last year and fell in love with the charm of the books. Set in the 1300’s, this series follows the adventures of Crispin Guest, the “Tracker” of London who solves crimes and, more often than not, finds a mythical/mysterious artefact along the way.

Having loved the characterisations in Traitor’s Codex, I wanted to continue, even though I hadn’t started at the beginning. When Sword of Shadows became available to request, I jumped at the chance. What I didn’t realise, however, was this book was based around the hunt for Excalibur: it combined the historical fiction I love with one of my favourite myths. Perfect.

The plot is a little different this time: rather than solving a crime and accidentally discovering an artefact, Crispin and Jack are employed to help find Excalibur – and the murders along the way distract them. Given Crispin’s scepticism, it was fun seeing him get excited about the prospect of finding the sword and what it means to him personally given his past.

“I wouldn’t argue with Master Tucker, Carantok,” said Kat, scrupulously studying her nails. “He’s terribly protective of Master Guest. As am I.”

Crispin is a great character. He’s noble and dignified, despite no longer having claims to titles. Regardless of personal feelings, he’s determined to do the right thing, regardless of what that costs him. He can be stern and proper but at the same time, you see his massive heart: he cares deeply for Jack and his family and is always surprised when that love is returned.

I haven’t read all the books in the series to comment on previous relationships. But it was amusing seeing Crispin with his heart on the line: a casual marriage proposal reveals his longing for something more and despite his proper ways, he takes his pleasure when he can.

Jack remains my favourite. His loyalty to Crispin – even when he’s disapproving – and his determination to stay on the straight and narrow, regardless of what is thrown his way, is entertaining. Jack’s determination to be a good man is matched by his need to help his master – even if that means reverting to old tricks better forgotten.

This is a gripping and enjoyable read, albeit not one to necessarily get your heart racing. The mystery kept me guessing: obvious signs were misleading and the secondary characters were all eccentric enough it could have been anyone. Not to mention certain characters who are not what they seem – if they are even there at all.

I loved the hunt for the sword and all the potential hiding places. Throughout the entire novel, you’re guessing whether they will find it – and whether they should or it should be left in peace.

Sword of Shadows is a whirlwind of charm and suspense, mystery and love where a man’s worth isn’t measured in what he owns, but who he is. Crispin and Jack are a great literary duo, Crispin’s love interest provides sharp entertainment and his employer helps define how much of a good man Crispin is.

If you’re into historical fiction, this is a definite read.

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