Absolutely gripped for 3/4 of the story, but the ending left me dissatisfied. Also, I don't understand why it's called "The Hangman's Daughter" when she doesn't do anything except serve as sexual interest to other characters. So 4 stars is a little high, really more like 3.5, but a galloping plot really counts for a lot with me. Also, I like the postscript where the author recounts his connection to this tale.

A particularly excellent book, given the politics of the world today- we could learn much from this tale. This takes place towards the end of the "burning times." A village with a child murdered. The Hangman who must torture the witch for confession though most involved understand her innocence. This novel has everything, it's a bit like the Alienist in terms of capturing the time-period while telling a plot-driven story with fascinating characters. It's a thriller. I really enjoyed this novel.

Even Grover Gardner's narration couldn't save this book for me. :( There were historical parts that seemed doubtful to me. There were actions by the protagonists that were just stupid and unbelievable. I couldn't tell the supporting characters apart. And then there was the torture. No, it wasn't really graphic, but it was UBIQUITOUS throughout the book. I guess that's hard to avoid in a book about an executioner whose job description also includes torture. And at this time in my life, reading about women being put in danger because of some supposed "witchcraft" or forbidden knowledge just makes me unhappy. I don't care if it's truly historical. I don't want to read about it. I just didn't care for it at all. I won't be venturing into any others in the series.

I'll write more later. In general I really enjoyed it. However at times the pace felt awkward (maybe due to translation?) and I found it to be extremely predictable. A fun scooby doo, but a scooby doo no less.

Not what I was expecting Not sure what I was expecting but this wasn’t it. A really interesting read especially on how we looked down on people in certain professions. Can’t wait to read more