Discover books similar to "The Council of the Cursed"

Peter Tremayne

The Council of the Cursed

4.16

"The Council of the Cursed" by Peter Tremayne is a captivating historical mystery that transports readers to seventh-century Ireland. Tremayne, a pseudonym for prominent crime novelist Peter Berresford Ellis, has built a dedicated following for his Sister Fidelma series, and this novel is a shining example of his ability to weave historical detail with intriguing mystery. Set in the year 668 AD, the story follows Sister Fidelma, a religieuse, and her companion, Brother Eadulf, as they investigate a series of bizarre and gruesome murders. The victims, all members of a high-ranking council, have been discovered with cursed symbols carved into their flesh. The pair must navigate the complex political landscape of the time, where the old pagan beliefs clash with the new Christian order, to unravel the truth behind these heinous crimes. Tremayne's meticulous research shines through in his vivid portrayal of the historical setting, providing a rich backdrop for the unfolding mystery. The characters are well-developed, and Sister Fidelma, with her sharp intellect and strong will, is a compelling protagonist. The author's ability to seamlessly integrate historical detail with a gripping plot makes "The Council of the Cursed" a satisfying read for both mystery and historical fiction fans. The novel also offers a fascinating look into the early Christian church and the legal system of the time, with Sister Fidelma serving as a dálaigh, or advocate, in the ancient Brehon Law courts. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the plot, as the pair must also navigate the legal intricacies of the time to solve the case. In conclusion, "The Council of the Cursed" is a compelling historical mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its rich historical detail, intricate plot, and well-developed characters, this novel is a must-read for fans of the genre...

List of books similar to "The Council of the Cursed":

Oliver Pötzsch

The Hangman's Daughter

If you enjoyed the historical setting and the mystery of 'The Council of the Cursed', you might like 'The Hangman's Daughter'. Set in 17th century Germany, a hangman and his daughter get entangled in a series of murders, exposing a dark conspiracy.

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Umberto Eco

The Name of the Rose

Fans of 'The Council of the Cursed' will appreciate 'The Name of the Rose' for its medieval monastery setting, complex mystery, and intellectual intrigue. A series of murders threaten a Franciscan monastery, and a Franciscan friar and his young apprentice must solve the mystery.

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Caleb Carr

The Alienist

For those who liked the historical crime-solving aspect of 'The Council of the Cursed', 'The Alienist' is a great choice. Set in 1896 New York, a criminal psychologist, a newspaper illustrator, and a police commissioner team up to track down a serial killer.

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Matthew Pearl

The Dante Club

If you're looking for a historical mystery with literary ties, similar to 'The Council of the Cursed', try 'The Dante Club'. Set in post-Civil War Boston, a series of murders resemble the scenes from Dante's Inferno, and a group of poets must solve the mystery.

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Katherine Howe

The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane

If you enjoyed the blend of history, mystery, and the supernatural in 'The Council of the Cursed', you might like 'The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane'. A historian uncovers her family's secret past and a dangerous grimoire in 17th century Salem.

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Donna Tartt

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Fans of 'The Council of the Cursed' might appreciate the historical and mysterious elements of 'The Secret History'. Set in a New England college, a group of classics students commit a murder and must deal with the consequences.

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Michel Faber

The Crimson Petal and the White

For those who liked the historical setting and complex characters of 'The Council of the Cursed', try 'The Crimson Petal and the White'. Set in Victorian London, a prostitute rises in society and seeks revenge on her clients.

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Helene Wecker

The Golem and the Jinni

If you enjoyed the supernatural elements of 'The Council of the Cursed', you might like 'The Golem and the Jinni'. Set in 1899 New York, a golem and a jinni, both recently freed from their masters, must navigate their new lives.

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Sarah Perry

The Essex Serpent

For those who liked the historical setting and the blend of mystery and supernatural elements in 'The Council of the Cursed', try 'The Essex Serpent'. Set in 1893 England, a widow moves to Essex and becomes involved in the search for a mythical serpent.

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Erik Larson

The Devil in the White City

If you're looking for a historical true crime book, similar to 'The Council of the Cursed', try 'The Devil in the White City'. The book tells the story of the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago and a serial killer who used the fair to lure his victims.

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