The Lancelot Murders: A Merlin Investigation

by: J.M.C.Blair

Published by: Berkley Prime Crime/ Penguin

Reviewed by Kathy Perschmann

Second in the excellent historical mystery series by J.M.C.Blair, after The Excalibur Murders, this tale finds Merlin having to investigate the murder of Guenevere’s father, Leodegrance, in Spider’s House, the castle that his exiled wife Guenevere and Lancelot are living in with their supporters.

Guenevere has appeared to be totally out of control, possibly influenced by her evil French mother, Leonilla. She has “married” Lancelot, and claims to be the true ruler of Britain. Merlin advises Arthur to take control by inviting representatives from many rulers from across Europe to celebrate Guenevere’s birthday with him at Spider’s House.

It is at this event that Lancelot is found standing over Leodegrance’s body, and he is imprisoned. As much as Arthur and Merlin would like the culprit to be Lancelot, they have some niggling doubts. They have some spies in place, and learn quite a bit about Guenevere, her secretary Petronilla, Lancelot, and the plots of some of the attending dignitaries, especially those sent by the nefarious Justinian.

There are some very special jeweled daggers made by a French jeweler given as presents for Lancelet and Guenevere. But how many were made, and how many will be found sticking out of corpses? Who else will die?

Merlin is a delightful, philosophical character, trying to rein in the inexperienced hothead Arthur and teach him how to rule. The setting of Spider’s House is dark, dank, and suitably creepy.

Armchair Interviews says: An excellent addition to this historical fiction series.