I am most definitely both an Anglophile and a reader of many mysteries with clerical themes. For example, I think of the wonderful series by Kate Charles or Susan Hill that I have enjoyed. So, when I saw this title that was about the churches of England and Wales, I knew that I wanted to read it.

First...the photographs are absolutely gorgeous. Crystal clear in their reproductions, they complement the text perfectly and allowed for happy, contemplative armchair travel.

The author starts the book by describing churches as places that have absorbed the histories of their times, places and communities. He notes their artwork, design and origins. Next, there is a thorough history on building churches and the sponsorship of different churches; some were part of a wealthy person's estate while others were build for contemplation. After this, there are sections on the churchyard, the interior and exteriors of churches and the furnishings. As a bonus, there are sections on further reading and places to visit.

I very much enjoyed this title. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this beautiful and informative book. I am now very eager for my next trip, whenever that may be!

Question - Have you ever had a Shire Book that isn't useful? The answer has to be a resounding no! Even for those who have some background knowledge of a subject there are always new snippets in every volume.
This book takes a look at the way the church and its hierarchy developed before moving on to give an overview of the architectural features of the interior and exterior of churches and their churchyards showing the changes through time and relating those to the changing fashions and changing demands on the church. All is supported by stunning photographs and the book concludes with a highlights list of places to visit on a county by county basis.
This book is to be highly recommended and adds to the growing list from this author looking at aspects of our ecclesiastical heritage. It really does make you want to find out more.

#ChurchesAndChurchyardsOfEnglandAndWales #NetGalley

I received an arc of this book on netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was actually more interesting than I thought it was going to be! If you are interested in English/Welsh history, this is a really good book for you to read. All parts of the church and churchyard are explained, but it isn't boring because there are many pictures and illustrations to show what is being talked about.

Churches and Churchyards of England and Wales by Richard Hayman is a fabulous reference on the history of the churches of England and Wales in how the hierarchy was created, how the structures and locations themselves were created (and why), how the churchyards and boundaries were created and developed, and how the internal and external components were added and altered throughout the history of the Christian existence in these countries.

It was fascinating to learn how the structures and the uses of the churches were altered based on the needs of the population and towns “parishes” and how the ranking of what was considered important changed over time.

I did not know a lot about how parishes and monasteries came to be in England and how it all changed structure wise.

The supporting pictures were breathtaking.

5/5 stars. If you love English/Welsh history, or if you are a history buff on the church structure, this is a must read.

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC and in return I am submitting my voluntary review and unbiased opinion.