I’ve been reading the Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton almost since the beginning, and I’m more than willing to admit some of the books were better than others. This one, I think was one of the better ones. Mel Starr has managed to so something quite remarkable in this book- allow for there to be a complex mystery, investigation and a satisfactory conclusion with no murder having taken place. A man is attacked and left with a head injury but is not killed.

Another interesting aside: this series has spanned a length of time almost as long as I have been reading the series. The first book was set in 1364 and this one take place in 1377. I first discovered this series in 2011. Twelve years to Hugh’s thirteen. I had wondered for some time how the series would cover the death of Edward III and some of the more tumultuous events at the end of his reign, if it got that far. I think it handled both well, and some of the events were even woven into the story. Considering how some of the laws and political changes might have impacted on ordinary people was the backdrop of the story.

My only sort of gripe was the negative portrayal of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. Hugh never met the man, so why does he consider him corrupt, greedy and untrustworthy? Yeah, he was unpopular with some commoners, but Hugh is not a commoner. Seems more like the interpretation of modern historians if you ask me. I’ve read a biography of John of Gaunt and I don't think this image reflects reality, or at least its too simplistic.

Anyway, The Polluted Font was an interesting and detailed mystery which also managed to explore the importance of compassion and forgiveness, and even to make you feel sorry for the antagonist. It also explores the importance of religion to 14th century people, without some of the pitfalls of the genre which include treating all Medieval Catholics as bad and the proto-Protestant character as the only real believer.

Thanks to SPCK and Lion Fiction for approving me for this title via Netgalley. This did not influence my review and all opinions expressed are my own.

Why I Chose This Book: I have been a dedicated follower of the Hugh de Singleton series ever since the first book captured my imagination, particularly due to John Wycliffe's appearance in the story. Having read each book in the series twice, my anticipation for "A Polluted Font" was high, driven by my deep investment in the characters and the narrative world Mel Starr has so vividly created.

My Thoughts: The Hugh de Singleton series has been delightful, offering a unique blend of 14th-century medicine, gripping crime-solving, and likable characters. Mel Starr's style of writing continues to be a highlight in this installment. Notably, "A Polluted Font" maintains the series' tradition of being accessible as a stand-alone novel, although I would advise new readers to start from the beginning to fully appreciate the depth of the characters and the evolving storylines.

However, "A Polluted Font" fell slightly short of my expectations, which is why I've given it four stars. The central crime - the mystery of the stolen holy water - lacked the compelling nature I've come to expect from Starr's work. This plot element failed to evoke the same sense of urgency or danger as previous books in the series. Furthermore, Hugh's role as a surgeon, a facet of his character I particularly enjoy, was underutilized, with him attending to only one patient compared to the multiple intriguing medical cases in past novels.

Despite these shortcomings, my commitment to Hugh de Singleton's adventures remains unshaken. The charm of the series lies in its rich historical tapestry and the interesting occupations of its main character, which continue to be a draw for me. I read "A Polluted Font" eager to see what Hugh would encounter next and, despite my critiques, I am looking forward to the next chapter in this engaging series. My connection to Hugh and the world Starr has crafted is strong, and I am invested and will continue to read the books as they come.

I received this book from the publisher through the NetGalley review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I love this series and this was another great well written entry. The mystery was solid with the usual twists an turns. However since there is no murder it did loose a bit of the excitement. However it's probably more realistic as there can't always be murder or there will be no-one left. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This novel made me discover a very interesting historical mystery series. It's a twisty and gripping novel that I thoroughly enjoyed.
The background is vivid, and the mystery is solid.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

When the font at Bampton is found to be empty of holy water, Hugh Singleton is charged with investigating. The aftermath of the Plague means that money is tight and the King has enacted a new Poll Tax, every person has to pay and this makes some desperate. Hugh is also charged with demanding the tax from the people of Bampton. Could the disappearance of the Holy Water be connected to the need for individuals to raise money quickly?
This is the sixteenth volume in this very entertaining series. It's short, it's fun and it's beautifully researched. A comfortable read

The 16th in a wonderful series, they just keep getting better and better! It can easily be read as a stand alone however it’ll make you want to read them all if you haven’t.

I’ve got a long association with Bampton having moved there over 20 years ago, the books are written so accurately that you can easily see the characters in the location and feel the atmosphere- just brilliantly written. Keep this series going please Mel, they are fabulous!

Many thanks to the author publishers and Netgalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review