The Tale of the Tailor and the Three Dead Kings: A Medieval Ghost Story

Bestselling historian Dan Jones retells a chilling medieval ghost story originally recorded by an unknown monk in the early fifteenth century. The narrative follows a tailor traveling home during the dark days of King Richard II. He rides through dank, wet, and gloomy conditions from Gilling to Ampleforth, eager to reach the warmth of his fire. A raven knocks him from his horse, transforming into a hideous dog with a mouth writhing in its own innards. This creature warns the tailor to seek absolution from a priest or face dire consequences. Jones builds upon the tradition established when medievalist M. R. James transcribed the tale from Latin in 1922. The book is published as a small-format hardback by Head of Zeus, offering crisp and creepy prose that captures the atmosphere of the period. It serves as an ideal Halloween read or a Christmas gift for those who appreciate supernatural fiction rooted in historical contexts. The story draws on medieval traditions and the specific era of King Richard II to create a sense of dread. This volume suits readers interested in gothic tales and historical ghost stories. It may not appeal to those seeking modern horror or fast-paced action, as it relies on the slow build of atmospheric tension. The text remains faithful to the source material while making it accessible to contemporary audiences through Jones's clear writing style.