The fifth book in the Matthew Shardlake series by C.J. Sansom, and it’s one of the best so far. It is likely one of the longest books in the series so far, if memory serves me correctly. In truly spectacular fashion, the author seems to have drawn me into Tudor London yet again. I believe I had some reservations about this series after the second book, but with just two more books in the series to go, I think I’m going to call it one of the best Tudor mystery series I’ve had the opportunity to read. Heartstone throws Matthew and Barak from their comfortable environs in London into the countryside to inquire about a family’s mysterious wardship of a young boy.

I think one of the reasons Heartstone is one of the most critical stories in the series so far is that we finally get to see the consequences of Master Shardlake’s choices and interference in other people’s affairs. While his adventures so far have obviously affected him, I think what happens in this story will have the greatest impact on him in the final two novels. It will be interesting to see how these changes affect his decision-making, as well as whether his attitude toward those seeking his help will change.

The primary mystery of the Hobbey family, along with Matthew trying to discover what actually happened to Ellen, kept me engaged for the most part. Yes, the book could obviously have been trimmed a bit, but it’s clear to me now that I actually enjoy even some of the more mundane parts of these stories. As in the other books, Matthew has a calm and keen perspective regardless of whatever situation he finds himself in, and it’s something I admire about his character—and likely why I fell in love with this series the more time I invested in it. I may have mentioned this before in my other reviews, but readers who enjoy this series should definitely check out The Chronicles of Osreth series by Katherine Addison. It has a fantasy setting, but I believe it is equally enjoyable for readers who enjoyed this one.