Ann Swinfen Knihy

Oxford, Spring 1353. When young bookseller Nicholas Elyot discovers the body of student William Farringdon floating in the river Cherwell, it looks like a drowning. Soon, however, Nicholas finds evidence of murder. Who could have wanted to kill this promising student? As Nicholas and his scholar friend Jordain try to unravel what lies behind William’s death, they learn that he was innocently caught up in a criminal plot. When their investigations begin to involve town, university, and abbey, Nicholas takes a risky gamble – and puts his own family in terrible danger.

Set against the backdrop of the harsh winter of 1648, Mercy Bennington and her community face the aftermath of a devastating flood while fending off land-grabbing speculators. With the local magnate's empty promises, Mercy's brother Tom seeks to recover an ancient charter that could secure their rights to the common land. As he navigates the dangers of London, he must race against time and enemies determined to thwart his mission, all while grappling with the challenges of his own disability.

Exploring the evolution of fantasy literature, Ann Swinfen examines its objectives and distinctions from mainstream realist fiction, particularly focusing on the period from 1945 onwards. Highlighting how Tolkien's influence legitimized the genre, she provides a thorough analysis of the developments and key figures in fantasy writing over three decades, offering insights into the genre's unique characteristics and its cultural significance.

When the novice Emma Thorgold goes missing from Godstow Abbey in the summer of 1353, the hunt is on throughout the Oxfordshire countryside. Bookseller Nicholas Elyot and scholar Jordain Brinkylsworth are anxious to help the girl, but her stepfather has other intentions. Why is he so determined to shut her away for life? Or worse? And will she be found unharmed?