Company of Liars by Karen Maitland

Age Level: Adult
Format: Book

Camelot, a peddler of religious relics, narrates this story that shares similarities to Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. A group of strangers meet up in 1348 England during the Plague breakout and decide to travel together, searching for an area untouched by the fatal disease. Each traveler lives a lie; balancing truth with the lies leads to dangerous secrets being revealed in each traveler’s story. Along the way, the travelers face starvation, lack of shelter, an ever-present wolf and death. The only thing that keeps the travelers marching to destinations unknown is the hope that someday they will reach a place of safety before death comes for them.

I really enjoyed reading this novel. While the topic of death and despair may not appeal to many readers, those who like to read historical fiction or are fans of Canterbury Tales should pick up this book. It is a perfect fictional study of life and societal fears in 14th century England. Each of Maitland’s characters bring a fascinating, yet sometimes horrific, secret to the group; once secrets are discovered, it is very interesting to see how the travelers react to one another. These reactions lead to a shocking ending, one I did not expect.

I look forward to reading Company of Liars again in the future!

Reviewed by Jessica