good read - Rated 
I read alot of historic fiction from this period and am usually put off by murder mysteries as opposed to those that are closer to historic fact. This was certainly an interesting read of political intrigue of the period and intend to read more of Baldwin and Simon in the future.
"Dispensation of Death" is Another Jecks 5+ Star - Rated 
This time I can't agree with "J. Chippindale's review." I confess that I had been concerned where the series was going after the previous title. I can also appreciate Chippindale's concerns regarding taking the series out of Devon. However, I think that rather than taking the story out of Devon, Jecks has brought Devon into the greater picture and that is the politics, mystery, intrigue, murder, etc. that made up this period in English history. Sir Baldwin and friends don't have to particularly like what they are doing, but they know as brave men and women have always known and that is that "freedom is not free." Sir Baldwin is "doing his part" to help protect family and home which is something we all need reminding of from time to time. Rather than detract from this well written, well researched tomb, we should applaud Jecks continuing this series and expanding upon it rather than just allowing it to wallow and become redundant.
I am also thankful for Amazon.co.uk for providing this title when it is still not available in the U.S. The price and shipping charges were well worth it not to mention speed of delivery and courteous customer service.
Paul S.
Lt. Col. (Ret)
The Latest in the Sir Baldwin de Furnshill Novels - Rated
Michael Jecks gave up a career in the computer industry when he began writing the internationally successful Templar series. Well all I can say is the Computer Industries loss is the reader's gain. He has now written about a score of the Knights Templar mystery books featuring Sir Baldwin de Furnshill and Bailiff Simon Puttock and there are more to follow. Michael's books are full of intrigue and mystery and they are particularly well researched. Mr. Jecks lives in the area he writes about and I am sure this must assist him a great deal with his background research.
It is the year 1325, England is in turmoil, even the common people who do not normally care who is on the throne of England as long as they are able to put bread in their mouths, are showing signs not only of concern but there are also muttering of unrest growing almost daily. Edward II and his lover Dispenser are showing utter disregard not only for the Queen but also the King's Barons and chief advisers.
When the Queen's lady-in-waiting is slaughtered for no apparent reason and a man's body, that has been terribly mutilated is found behind the throne, the King demands justice. Sir Baldwin de Furnshill, Keeper of the King's Peace and an experienced man in these matters is called in to track down the killer. He is aided by his long time friend Simon Puttock.
However in a time when the King's friends can use any means at their disposal to promote their own ends, Sir Baldwin and his friends the bailiff must keep their wits about them just to stay alive.
I have always enjoyed the books of Michael Jecks, but I believe the author, like many before him and I am sure many to come, lost his way a little, mainly by taking his characters out of their Devon environment. This book also falls into that category, but I enjoyed it very much.
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