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Chronicles of Brother Cadfael #3
Monk's Hood
When a visitor to the abbey dies, Brother Cadfael faces a personal drama. For not only was the man poisoned by monk's hood oil, made in Cadfael's own laboratory, the dead man's widow is also the woman to whom Cadfael was betrothed before he took his vows.
210 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 1, 1980
1817 people are currently reading
3352 people want to read
About the author
Ellis Peters
214 books1,122 followersA pseudonym used by Edith Pargeter.
Edith Mary Pargeter, OBE, BEM was a prolific author of works in many categories, especially history and historical fiction, and was also honoured for her translations of Czech classics; she is probably best known for her murder mysteries, both historical and modern. Born in the village of Horsehay (Shropshire, England), she had Welsh ancestry, and many of her short stories and books (both fictional and non-fictional) were set in Wales and its borderlands.
During World War II, she worked in an administrative role in the Women's Royal Naval Service, and received the British Empire Medal - BEM.
Pargeter wrote under a number of pseudonyms; it was under the name Ellis Peters that she wrote the highly popular series of Brother Cadfael medieval mysteries, many of which were made into films for television.
Edith Mary Pargeter, OBE, BEM was a prolific author of works in many categories, especially history and historical fiction, and was also honoured for her translations of Czech classics; she is probably best known for her murder mysteries, both historical and modern. Born in the village of Horsehay (Shropshire, England), she had Welsh ancestry, and many of her short stories and books (both fictional and non-fictional) were set in Wales and its borderlands.
During World War II, she worked in an administrative role in the Women's Royal Naval Service, and received the British Empire Medal - BEM.
Pargeter wrote under a number of pseudonyms; it was under the name Ellis Peters that she wrote the highly popular series of Brother Cadfael medieval mysteries, many of which were made into films for television.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 784 reviews
April 5, 2024
A woman from his past comes again into Cadfael's life
By Charles van Buren on August 31, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
As I write this review in August 2018, there are already over 100 reviews on Amazon. All but seven are four and five stars. The single one star review erroneously complains that MONK'S HOOD is the same book as ST. PETER'S FAIR under a different title. The edition which I read does have a preview of ST. PETER'S FAIR at the end but is not the same book.
One of the three star reviews says that the language is difficult to understand and recommends keeping a dictionary by your side as you read. If you really do have trouble with the language, read the book on a Kindle or similar device with built-in dictionary. I do not think that most will have any trouble with the words. The only things I recall looking up were some of the occupation titles in the monastery. They were mostly understandable in context but I am a curious sort and wanted to know exactly. This is not a difficult book to read. In fact this and the other Brother Cadfael mysteries are what I call fun books. Well researched, quick, easy reads and they always have a good, if unexpected ending.
In this one, Cadfael, devoted to truth and his ideas of justice, violates the law himself by hiding a wanted man from the sheriff and his men. Of course it all works out in the end.
By Charles van Buren on August 31, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
As I write this review in August 2018, there are already over 100 reviews on Amazon. All but seven are four and five stars. The single one star review erroneously complains that MONK'S HOOD is the same book as ST. PETER'S FAIR under a different title. The edition which I read does have a preview of ST. PETER'S FAIR at the end but is not the same book.
One of the three star reviews says that the language is difficult to understand and recommends keeping a dictionary by your side as you read. If you really do have trouble with the language, read the book on a Kindle or similar device with built-in dictionary. I do not think that most will have any trouble with the words. The only things I recall looking up were some of the occupation titles in the monastery. They were mostly understandable in context but I am a curious sort and wanted to know exactly. This is not a difficult book to read. In fact this and the other Brother Cadfael mysteries are what I call fun books. Well researched, quick, easy reads and they always have a good, if unexpected ending.
In this one, Cadfael, devoted to truth and his ideas of justice, violates the law himself by hiding a wanted man from the sheriff and his men. Of course it all works out in the end.
May 30, 2013
I really, really liked the book, but I LOVE Cadfael. Cadfael gets ten stars. These books may be classified as stand-alones,but I believe you should read them in order, starting with the second book. Why? Because it is important to know who each one of the characters really is, their souls, what makes them tick, how they think and behave. In book two I came to understand who Beringar was. Book three has now taught me, showed me, who Cadfael is. I have seen the choices he makes, and I absolutely love him. I wish I had had this knowledge before I tackled the later books. Personally I think you can skip the first, or go back and read that when you want o fill in lost details because you know you love the whole series.
Super narration by Stephen Thorne.
One more thing. I guessed who the murderer was after two or three chapters, but you do not read these books to "solve the mystery". You read them to be with people you admire and respect. You read to see how they will deal with what is thrown in their path. The books let you escape into a completely different world. Is this why I less often enjoy picking up books set in modern times?
I really enjoyed this book; I do not want to leave Shrewsbury so I will move on to "Virgin in the Ice". I have read all the books between this and that one.
Super narration by Stephen Thorne.
One more thing. I guessed who the murderer was after two or three chapters, but you do not read these books to "solve the mystery". You read them to be with people you admire and respect. You read to see how they will deal with what is thrown in their path. The books let you escape into a completely different world. Is this why I less often enjoy picking up books set in modern times?
I really enjoyed this book; I do not want to leave Shrewsbury so I will move on to "Virgin in the Ice". I have read all the books between this and that one.
July 5, 2019
While it is certainly and definitely true that Ellis Peters' Monk's Hood does not (and will likely also never) rank as one of my favourites of the Brother Cadfael Mediaeval mystery novels, I still very much and actively do consider it one of the more important earlier books of the series (and as such to be read if not in actual order of appearance then still relatively early on, as indeed, there are in my opinion some very good reasons why Monk's Hood is the third mystery featuring Brother Cadfael and not a later instalment).
For one, Monk's Hood presents to us readers quite a bit of supplemental information regarding Brother Cadfael's past (before he decided to become a monk), important details regarding the latter's so-called back story, even though part of me does tend to consider the arrival of Cadfael's former lover Richildis at the abbey just a wee bit too deliberately coincidental. And for two (and yes, in my opinion, much more essentially and importantly for the entire series as a whole), in Monk's Hood Ellis Peters clearly portrays and points out in no uncertain terms why it would be an absolutely horrible fiasco in every sense of the word were Prior Robert ever to permanently become abbott of the Monastery of Saint Peter and Paul in Shrewsbury (and actually not even so much because of Prior Robert's rather strict and unbending ways but more because of his devoted fan and obsessive acolyte, Brother Jerome, with his penchant for gossiping, spying and seeing the work of Satan in even the most innocent of behaviours).
Now with regard to the actual mystery featured and presented in Monk's Hood (as to who poisoned Gervase Bonel with one of Brother Cadfael's own herbal tinctures), there is frankly rather a bit too much of the standard and traditional whodunnit present for my tastes (and I also tend to enjoy those Brother Cadfael novels somewhat more where Cadfael, while of course still being the one to ultimately solve the mystery or mysteries at hand, also tends to remain more in the background, is not acting so much front and centre with regard to discovering the identity of the main villain or villains). But all in all, I have certainly and indeed very much enjoyed Monk's Hood (and yes, especially and as usual due to Ellis Peters' writing style and her wonderfully descriptively imaginative yet always spot-on realistic sense of historic time and place, giving us as readers truly marvellous portraits of Mediaeval England and in Monk's Hood of course also of Mediaeval Wales).
But for me, what has finally and ultimately moved Monk's Hood from three to four stars is that Ellis Peters does not simply end up having the main villain appear as some downright evil and utterly vile entity but as basically a decent enough person pushed to the limit and then having the temptation of Brother Cadfael's monkshood tincture dangled in front of him (and I guess that this is actually one of the main and recurring reasons that I do consider the Brother Cadfael series such a personal favourite, namely that in the vast majority of the novels, Ellis Peters does not usually present her villains as horridly evil caricatures but as nuanced and fully fleshed out human beings who have made some very terrible and problematic mistakes and choices leading to murder and mayhem).
For one, Monk's Hood presents to us readers quite a bit of supplemental information regarding Brother Cadfael's past (before he decided to become a monk), important details regarding the latter's so-called back story, even though part of me does tend to consider the arrival of Cadfael's former lover Richildis at the abbey just a wee bit too deliberately coincidental. And for two (and yes, in my opinion, much more essentially and importantly for the entire series as a whole), in Monk's Hood Ellis Peters clearly portrays and points out in no uncertain terms why it would be an absolutely horrible fiasco in every sense of the word were Prior Robert ever to permanently become abbott of the Monastery of Saint Peter and Paul in Shrewsbury (and actually not even so much because of Prior Robert's rather strict and unbending ways but more because of his devoted fan and obsessive acolyte, Brother Jerome, with his penchant for gossiping, spying and seeing the work of Satan in even the most innocent of behaviours).
Now with regard to the actual mystery featured and presented in Monk's Hood (as to who poisoned Gervase Bonel with one of Brother Cadfael's own herbal tinctures), there is frankly rather a bit too much of the standard and traditional whodunnit present for my tastes (and I also tend to enjoy those Brother Cadfael novels somewhat more where Cadfael, while of course still being the one to ultimately solve the mystery or mysteries at hand, also tends to remain more in the background, is not acting so much front and centre with regard to discovering the identity of the main villain or villains). But all in all, I have certainly and indeed very much enjoyed Monk's Hood (and yes, especially and as usual due to Ellis Peters' writing style and her wonderfully descriptively imaginative yet always spot-on realistic sense of historic time and place, giving us as readers truly marvellous portraits of Mediaeval England and in Monk's Hood of course also of Mediaeval Wales).
But for me, what has finally and ultimately moved Monk's Hood from three to four stars is that Ellis Peters does not simply end up having the main villain appear as some downright evil and utterly vile entity but as basically a decent enough person pushed to the limit and then having the temptation of Brother Cadfael's monkshood tincture dangled in front of him (and I guess that this is actually one of the main and recurring reasons that I do consider the Brother Cadfael series such a personal favourite, namely that in the vast majority of the novels, Ellis Peters does not usually present her villains as horridly evil caricatures but as nuanced and fully fleshed out human beings who have made some very terrible and problematic mistakes and choices leading to murder and mayhem).
June 6, 2025
This third novel of the Brother Cadfael series fell a little short of the two preceding novels. The story was heavily anchored on Cadfael while the rest of the characters were mere fill-ins. This was quite a reversal from the previous two novels where multiple characters and multiple actions positively contributed towards shaping the plot. The story was also slow-moving. The first half dragged on although the second half somewhat picked up the pace. The result was that I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected.
On a positive note, however, I enjoyed the personal entanglement of Brother Cadfael in the murder mystery. The crime had a vicarious claim on Brother Cadfael's conscience since one of his medicinal preparations was the instrument of death. Also, the accused was the son of the victim's wife from a former marriage and Cadfael was convinced of his innocence. And to top it all, the lady was a former fiancée of Cadfael, and he felt duty-bound to assist her in her distress. I also enjoyed the reading about the legal question that was knotted with the motive. The subject of the dispute - a manor house - which, given its geographical situation, was subjected to Welsh law. It was interesting to learn how justice was administrated by Welsh law in the medieval ages. But the best of all was the humanity shown by Brother Cadfael in uncovering the truth. Yet again he showed that God's justice is far greater than human justice.
More of my reviews can be found at
On a positive note, however, I enjoyed the personal entanglement of Brother Cadfael in the murder mystery. The crime had a vicarious claim on Brother Cadfael's conscience since one of his medicinal preparations was the instrument of death. Also, the accused was the son of the victim's wife from a former marriage and Cadfael was convinced of his innocence. And to top it all, the lady was a former fiancée of Cadfael, and he felt duty-bound to assist her in her distress. I also enjoyed the reading about the legal question that was knotted with the motive. The subject of the dispute - a manor house - which, given its geographical situation, was subjected to Welsh law. It was interesting to learn how justice was administrated by Welsh law in the medieval ages. But the best of all was the humanity shown by Brother Cadfael in uncovering the truth. Yet again he showed that God's justice is far greater than human justice.
More of my reviews can be found at
June 17, 2024
The first books I read about the mystery-solving medieval monk were a bumper edition of the first three: “A Morbid Taste for Bones”, “One Corpse Too Many” and this one Monk’s Hood. There are twenty books by Ellis Peters (a pseudonym for Edith Pargeter) about Brother Cadfael, as well as a few later ones about her invented character by other authors. They are collected together in various ways; this is not the edition I read.
Several of these novels have also been dramatised for television, with Derek Jacobi in the lead role and a good supporting cast. The dramatisation here though is the first part of a series of 3 radio dramas on one DAISY disc: Brother Cadfael: A BBC Radio Collection of Three Full-Cast Dramatisations.
Philip Madoc stars as Cadfael, who used to be a Crusader in the Holy Wars, and also a sailor, but is now a Benedictine monk at the monastery in Shrewsbury. He has skill as their herbalist, and spends his days ministering to his brothers using the medical skills he acquired in the Holy Lands. With his knowledge of the world and wide experience of human nature however, he often finds himself called upon when there is a murder to solve.
All the books are historically accurate and set between about 1135 and about 1145, during “The Anarchy”. This was a destructive contest for the crown between King Stephen and Empress Maud.
In Monk’s Hood the year is 1138. Brother Cadfael is asked to supply a healing potion for a sick monk—but the monk’s hood oil he uses could kill as well as cure.
The rich, sonorous timbre of Philip Madoc’s voice is perfect for Brother Cadfael, the stolid but compassionate Welsh monk who used to be a soldier. Other stand-out characters in this story were Prior Robert (Geoffrey Whitehead), the monk who has an eye to becoming the Abbot; Hugh Beringar (Alan Barker), a sympathetic local deputy sheriff; Brother Mark (Ian Targett), a young monk who is Cadfael's bold, sometimes cheeky apprentice; Aelfric (Mark Straker) Edwy Bellecote (Stephen Garlick) and Edwin Gurney (Richard Pearce), three youths on whom suspicion falls at various points; and Richildis Bonel (Pat Heywood), the woman to whom Cadfael was once betrothed.
Michael Hordern’s intermittent narration is also excellent. The adaptation was made in 1991 by Bert Coules, one of the BBC’s best writers in my opinion. He has managed to include a perfect balance of plot and description, so that we get a real sense of medieval Shrewsbury and the Welsh borders. The theme tune is played on contemporary instruments. The entire production lasts for 2 and a half hours (5 episodes). It is recommended.
Also on this disc are dramatisations of “The Virgin in the Ice” and “Dead Man’s Ransom”.
Several of these novels have also been dramatised for television, with Derek Jacobi in the lead role and a good supporting cast. The dramatisation here though is the first part of a series of 3 radio dramas on one DAISY disc: Brother Cadfael: A BBC Radio Collection of Three Full-Cast Dramatisations.
Philip Madoc stars as Cadfael, who used to be a Crusader in the Holy Wars, and also a sailor, but is now a Benedictine monk at the monastery in Shrewsbury. He has skill as their herbalist, and spends his days ministering to his brothers using the medical skills he acquired in the Holy Lands. With his knowledge of the world and wide experience of human nature however, he often finds himself called upon when there is a murder to solve.
All the books are historically accurate and set between about 1135 and about 1145, during “The Anarchy”. This was a destructive contest for the crown between King Stephen and Empress Maud.
In Monk’s Hood the year is 1138. Brother Cadfael is asked to supply a healing potion for a sick monk—but the monk’s hood oil he uses could kill as well as cure.
The rich, sonorous timbre of Philip Madoc’s voice is perfect for Brother Cadfael, the stolid but compassionate Welsh monk who used to be a soldier. Other stand-out characters in this story were Prior Robert (Geoffrey Whitehead), the monk who has an eye to becoming the Abbot; Hugh Beringar (Alan Barker), a sympathetic local deputy sheriff; Brother Mark (Ian Targett), a young monk who is Cadfael's bold, sometimes cheeky apprentice; Aelfric (Mark Straker) Edwy Bellecote (Stephen Garlick) and Edwin Gurney (Richard Pearce), three youths on whom suspicion falls at various points; and Richildis Bonel (Pat Heywood), the woman to whom Cadfael was once betrothed.
Michael Hordern’s intermittent narration is also excellent. The adaptation was made in 1991 by Bert Coules, one of the BBC’s best writers in my opinion. He has managed to include a perfect balance of plot and description, so that we get a real sense of medieval Shrewsbury and the Welsh borders. The theme tune is played on contemporary instruments. The entire production lasts for 2 and a half hours (5 episodes). It is recommended.
Also on this disc are dramatisations of “The Virgin in the Ice” and “Dead Man’s Ransom”.
September 14, 2017
I read this for the “Murder Most Foul” square of my 2017 Halloween Bingo card.
Brother Cadfael has not disappointed me yet. In this book, one of his herbal potions is used for evil instead of for good and the Brother feels he must right the wrong caused by his tincture. A very young step-son is blamed for the murder and since Cadfael is sure the boy is innocent, he pursues the matter all the way to Wales.
Cadfael is such a steady, sensible character. It’s a joy to watch as he methodically put together the pieces, assesses the people involved, and uses his opportunities to solve the mystery, while still managing to (mostly) obey the rules of the Abbey. This situation has probably perturbed him the most because of his reconnection with Richildis, the woman he loved before he went to the Crusades and joined the religious order. One poignant scene has him looking at her son and thinking “That child could have been mine if I’d returned to her.”
This is a very quietly enjoyable series and I will look forward to the next installment with anticipation.
Brother Cadfael has not disappointed me yet. In this book, one of his herbal potions is used for evil instead of for good and the Brother feels he must right the wrong caused by his tincture. A very young step-son is blamed for the murder and since Cadfael is sure the boy is innocent, he pursues the matter all the way to Wales.
Cadfael is such a steady, sensible character. It’s a joy to watch as he methodically put together the pieces, assesses the people involved, and uses his opportunities to solve the mystery, while still managing to (mostly) obey the rules of the Abbey. This situation has probably perturbed him the most because of his reconnection with Richildis, the woman he loved before he went to the Crusades and joined the religious order. One poignant scene has him looking at her son and thinking “That child could have been mine if I’d returned to her.”
This is a very quietly enjoyable series and I will look forward to the next installment with anticipation.
February 26, 2021
I love the humanity and wisdom of Brother Cadfael.
Favorite passages:
When a lad addresses Cadfael directly and asks him what his business is: "Now I know I am in Wales thought Cadfael. An English servant if he ventured to challenge the proceedings at all would do it roundabout and obsequiously for fear of getting his ears clipped but your Welsh lad speaks his mind to princes."
"Thank God I didn't make the mistake of suggesting it to him thought Cadfael devoutly. There's nothing the young hate and resent so much as to be urged to a good act when they've already made the virtuous resolve on their own account."
Favorite passages:
When a lad addresses Cadfael directly and asks him what his business is: "Now I know I am in Wales thought Cadfael. An English servant if he ventured to challenge the proceedings at all would do it roundabout and obsequiously for fear of getting his ears clipped but your Welsh lad speaks his mind to princes."
"Thank God I didn't make the mistake of suggesting it to him thought Cadfael devoutly. There's nothing the young hate and resent so much as to be urged to a good act when they've already made the virtuous resolve on their own account."
October 22, 2017
In the third of the Brother Cadfael mysteries, one Gervase Bonel leaves his estate to the Abbey in exchange for him and his wife being looked after for life, in the process disinheriting his stepson. Not long after moving in, Bonel is killed by poison in a special dish sent out for him by the Abbey and the poison is an oil for joint pain prepared by Brother Cadfael. The most of obvious suspect is Bonel’s stepson, fifteen-year-old Edwin Gurney who turns out to be the son of Cadfael’s old sweetheart Richildis (now married to Bonel), and Cadfael is convinced by his own methods that the boy is innocent. There are plenty of disgruntled people in Bonel’s household for though never bending the law, he was not above doing things for his own profit but none seems to have a strong enough motive. To add to Cadfael’s difficulties, Hugh Beringar is away and the case is in the hands of the less sympathetic (and rather condescending) sheriff Gilbert Prestcote. And then Cadfael finds himself confined to the Abbey for his unbecoming conduct in having talked to the widow Bonel at night. Meanwhile the Abbey is the midst of its own troubles with Abbot Heribert set to be replaced and Prior Robert taking over before he has even been named successor. While Cadfael is confined to the Abbey’s precincts for a bit, he is helped by Brother Mark, his young apprentice who is quite glad to go “detecting”, and even forego prayers in the process.
This mystery felt surprisingly “gentle” and slow considering the urgency of solving the murder and clearing Edwin of the charge, the uncooperative sheriff other impediments he faces from the Abbey, the politically charged atmosphere at the Abbey, and Cadfael’s own concern in the matter of his concoction (its key ingredient being monk’s hood) having been used in the murder, and of course, the matter involving Richildis. I enjoyed the setting as always, which gives one glimpses into life at the Abbey and its surroundings and a great “feel” of the period. The little excursion that Cadfael makes into Wales was also very enjoyable, particularly the time he spends outdoors with the sheep under the night sky-felt lovely and peaceful. This was again a winter story ending at Christmas but despite the snow the whole atmosphere never felt as chilly and awful as in the Virgin in the Ice. An enjoyable instalment in the series.
p.s. The ending was great fun (the comic touch in one scene particularly)!
This mystery felt surprisingly “gentle” and slow considering the urgency of solving the murder and clearing Edwin of the charge, the uncooperative sheriff other impediments he faces from the Abbey, the politically charged atmosphere at the Abbey, and Cadfael’s own concern in the matter of his concoction (its key ingredient being monk’s hood) having been used in the murder, and of course, the matter involving Richildis. I enjoyed the setting as always, which gives one glimpses into life at the Abbey and its surroundings and a great “feel” of the period. The little excursion that Cadfael makes into Wales was also very enjoyable, particularly the time he spends outdoors with the sheep under the night sky-felt lovely and peaceful. This was again a winter story ending at Christmas but despite the snow the whole atmosphere never felt as chilly and awful as in the Virgin in the Ice. An enjoyable instalment in the series.
p.s. The ending was great fun (the comic touch in one scene particularly)!
April 3, 2022
Brother Cadfael in the monastery of Shrewsbury in the year 1138 tended the medical workshop with potions of health and danger. One potion had killed a local lord.
Why? Who? How?
Gervase Bonel, with his wife and servants, is a guest at the Shrewsbury Abbey of Saint Peter and Saint Paul when he is suddenly taken ill. Luckily, the abbey boasts the services of the shrewd and kindly Brother Cadfael, a skilled herbalist. Cadfael hurries to the man's bedside, only to be confronted by two very different surprises.
An old flame from the past
In Master Bonel's wife, the good monk recognizes Richildis, whom he loved many years ago, before he took his vows. And Master Bonel himself has been fatally poisoned by a dose of deadly monk's hood oil from Cadfael's own laboratory.
The wrong man is accused and will hang
The Sheriff is convinced that the murderer is Richildis' son, Edwin, who had reasons aplenty to hate his stepfather. But Cadfael, guided in part by his tender concern for a woman to whom he was once betrothed, is certain of her son's innocence. Using his knowledge of both herbs and the human heart, Cadfael deciphers a deadly recipe for murder.
All the classic elements proper to a whodunnit are here, but set in an accurate medieval tapestry.
Enjoy!
Why? Who? How?
Gervase Bonel, with his wife and servants, is a guest at the Shrewsbury Abbey of Saint Peter and Saint Paul when he is suddenly taken ill. Luckily, the abbey boasts the services of the shrewd and kindly Brother Cadfael, a skilled herbalist. Cadfael hurries to the man's bedside, only to be confronted by two very different surprises.
An old flame from the past
In Master Bonel's wife, the good monk recognizes Richildis, whom he loved many years ago, before he took his vows. And Master Bonel himself has been fatally poisoned by a dose of deadly monk's hood oil from Cadfael's own laboratory.
The wrong man is accused and will hang
The Sheriff is convinced that the murderer is Richildis' son, Edwin, who had reasons aplenty to hate his stepfather. But Cadfael, guided in part by his tender concern for a woman to whom he was once betrothed, is certain of her son's innocence. Using his knowledge of both herbs and the human heart, Cadfael deciphers a deadly recipe for murder.
All the classic elements proper to a whodunnit are here, but set in an accurate medieval tapestry.
Enjoy!
June 19, 2025
the novel opens really nicely, with descriptions of the Abbey, and it's monks and their different roles. I enjoyed it's familiar and friendly tongue-in-cheek(i)ness 🙂😉
Cadfael's gardens, his routines within them, and his stored and drying herbs, are nicely described too 🌿 I think I'd enjoy being his apprentice 😁💚
I liked the scene setting, and also the storyline - a potential change of prior bringing small, and less small, disruptions to their order.
no less a murder! 😯
the murder is of the second husband of Richildis, Cadfael's once love, and her son is the chief suspect (not that anyone who knows him believes that). Cadfael determines to find the real murderer, while keeping the boy/young man safe.
Cadfael muses on the path of fatherhood he never took... tho also whether there are any children with his heritage born to women, and in places, he once knew 🤔🙂
much more investigation ensues... Brother Cadfael is assisted in Shrewsbury by his apprentice, young Brother Mark 🙂 and then travels into Wales, called there to treat an ailing Brother, where he manages to further his investigations and bring the case to a close.
🌱🌿🌿🌿🌱
I especially enjoyed:
🧡 Cadfael's moments of musing on mistakes/things he hadn't foreseen.. not in a self reproaching way, but in his usual quiet considered way, and leaving things to trust/not fretting overly over things he can't control 🙂
💚 Cadfael's time in Wales to administer to a sick Brother across the border (and to help tend the sheep while he recovers). I enjoyed his interactions and reflections there, the descriptions of the land (his homeland) and some of the Welsh practices and culture, and there's a nice mention of Welsh/Celtic Christianity compared to Roman led Christianity.
💙 young Brother Mark's energy and uncomplicated enthusiasm and glee 😃😁
🌱🌿🌿🌿🌱
my favourite Brother Cadfael novel so far! not sure what it was about this one, and/or maybe just where I was at/my mood, but I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and my time with it 😊
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
accessed as an RNIB talking book, ably read by George Hagan.
Cadfael's gardens, his routines within them, and his stored and drying herbs, are nicely described too 🌿 I think I'd enjoy being his apprentice 😁💚
I liked the scene setting, and also the storyline - a potential change of prior bringing small, and less small, disruptions to their order.
no less a murder! 😯
the murder is of the second husband of Richildis, Cadfael's once love, and her son is the chief suspect (not that anyone who knows him believes that). Cadfael determines to find the real murderer, while keeping the boy/young man safe.
Cadfael muses on the path of fatherhood he never took... tho also whether there are any children with his heritage born to women, and in places, he once knew 🤔🙂
much more investigation ensues... Brother Cadfael is assisted in Shrewsbury by his apprentice, young Brother Mark 🙂 and then travels into Wales, called there to treat an ailing Brother, where he manages to further his investigations and bring the case to a close.
🌱🌿🌿🌿🌱
I especially enjoyed:
🧡 Cadfael's moments of musing on mistakes/things he hadn't foreseen.. not in a self reproaching way, but in his usual quiet considered way, and leaving things to trust/not fretting overly over things he can't control 🙂
💚 Cadfael's time in Wales to administer to a sick Brother across the border (and to help tend the sheep while he recovers). I enjoyed his interactions and reflections there, the descriptions of the land (his homeland) and some of the Welsh practices and culture, and there's a nice mention of Welsh/Celtic Christianity compared to Roman led Christianity.
💙 young Brother Mark's energy and uncomplicated enthusiasm and glee 😃😁
🌱🌿🌿🌿🌱
my favourite Brother Cadfael novel so far! not sure what it was about this one, and/or maybe just where I was at/my mood, but I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and my time with it 😊
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
accessed as an RNIB talking book, ably read by George Hagan.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2023
A beautiful piece of writing.
Read
April 29, 2021Rešila sam da posle decenija čitanja romana o Kadfaelu kad i kako mi koji padne pod ruku upriličim sebi jedno lagano i hronološko čitanje. I evo već kod trećeg dela do pola nisam bila sigurna da li sam ovaj čitala ili ne (ne pomaže to što sam više od pola romana čitala u nemačkim prevodima koji se vrlo slobodno ophode prema naslovima). Elis Piters piše udobno i pouzdano ali nadasve formulaično i tu nema leka. Ne da kritikujem :)
March 26, 2020
3/2020- joining in with Detectives group for my umpteenth reread - Cadfael is a comforting delight, and as a member pointed out, with all the horrible virus news, we could all use a comfort read about now!
2018 - Another wonderful outing in the series which made me a lover of historical mysteries many years ago, when I first met Cadfael. I had forgotten the plots, so rereading the series is like reading each book for the first time.
This time, Cadfael is called to administer what aid he can to a dying man (Gervase Bonel) who has just signed his manor over to Shrewsbury Abbey and moved into “retirement” on abbey grounds with his household (a house, daily meals from the abbey kitchens and stabling for a horse are provided, in exchange for the manor). Cadfael is unable to save the man, who has been poisoned, but recognizes the widow as Richildis, the sweetheart of his youth. This attachment adds a poignant touch to the mystery, and further fleshes out Cadfael’s fascinating life story; Richildis was happily married before Master Bonel, and her youngest son had been named heir to Bonel’s manor, as he had no legitimate children of his own. Bonel was apparently a stubborn, difficult man and fell out with Edwin, his heir and Richildis’ youngest child. Edwin becomes prime suspect in the poisoning murder of his step-father.
What I loved about these mysteries, and am rediscovering, is the appeal of a much slower pace of life - apparent throughout is Cadfael’s acceptance of who he is, his vocation, the worth of this contemplative life he has chosen after a lifetime soldiering and sailing around the world, and his humility and decency. Nothing surprises him, he truly treasures every day among his herb garden, making potions and remedies to care for his brothers and townsfolk as needed. Peters created a wonderful character, and her research and beautifully written stories are full of peace, tranquility and humanity, and provide a satisfying puzzle, as well; I enjoyed them when I first read them 20+ years ago, and in the current political climate, I find them a balm to my overloaded nerves, and am enjoying getting reacquainted with Cadfael and his world.
2018 - Another wonderful outing in the series which made me a lover of historical mysteries many years ago, when I first met Cadfael. I had forgotten the plots, so rereading the series is like reading each book for the first time.
This time, Cadfael is called to administer what aid he can to a dying man (Gervase Bonel) who has just signed his manor over to Shrewsbury Abbey and moved into “retirement” on abbey grounds with his household (a house, daily meals from the abbey kitchens and stabling for a horse are provided, in exchange for the manor). Cadfael is unable to save the man, who has been poisoned, but recognizes the widow as Richildis, the sweetheart of his youth. This attachment adds a poignant touch to the mystery, and further fleshes out Cadfael’s fascinating life story; Richildis was happily married before Master Bonel, and her youngest son had been named heir to Bonel’s manor, as he had no legitimate children of his own. Bonel was apparently a stubborn, difficult man and fell out with Edwin, his heir and Richildis’ youngest child. Edwin becomes prime suspect in the poisoning murder of his step-father.
What I loved about these mysteries, and am rediscovering, is the appeal of a much slower pace of life - apparent throughout is Cadfael’s acceptance of who he is, his vocation, the worth of this contemplative life he has chosen after a lifetime soldiering and sailing around the world, and his humility and decency. Nothing surprises him, he truly treasures every day among his herb garden, making potions and remedies to care for his brothers and townsfolk as needed. Peters created a wonderful character, and her research and beautifully written stories are full of peace, tranquility and humanity, and provide a satisfying puzzle, as well; I enjoyed them when I first read them 20+ years ago, and in the current political climate, I find them a balm to my overloaded nerves, and am enjoying getting reacquainted with Cadfael and his world.
June 27, 2023
3rd in the series, Welsh-born 12th-century Benedictine monk Cadfael – once a soldier in the crusades before taking Holy orders – now a self-taught herbalist, apothecary and sometime sleuth, is working in his garden and storage shed in the Abbey at Shrewsbury. As Christmas approaches, news arrives that the aging Abbot has been summoned to London by the Pope’s representative, who is overseeing a restructure of the abbeys. Fearing his tenure may be at an end, the Abbot temporarily hands his duties to the supercilious Prior Robert until his future is decided.
One of the pressing matters to be addressed is the allocation of a house, chattels, food and stabling for one horse for ailing landowner Gervase Bonel, his wife, stepson and two servants – in exchange for his manor and lands on the border with Wales. Though the formalities are incomplete, the ambitious Prior Robert is only too willing to accept the exchange, to further his credentials.
Soon after the family moves in, Bonel is suddenly stricken and dies from a poison from Cadfael’s own dispensary, and Cadfael is confounded as he recognises the widow as Richildis, the girl he courted as a teenager, now twice married. The evidence points to the son by her first marriage, but she and others are convinced he is innocent, asking Cadfael to investigate on their behalf. His journey takes him across the border into Wales – a different language and a people who practise a Celtic Christianity unhitched from Rome.
This series is an absolute delight. Written as English would be spoken back in the twelve century, with helpful maps and a glossary of medieval terms, it is easy for the reader to become immersed in the many places and characters. My own favourite: Hugh Beringar, deputy to the Sheriff of Shrewsbury, Gilbert Prestcote: he and Cadfael having a long-standing friendship.
There had been few direct questions asked, and few but oblique answers. Their conversation was often as devious as their relationship was easy and secure, but they understood each other.
Well recommended.
One of the pressing matters to be addressed is the allocation of a house, chattels, food and stabling for one horse for ailing landowner Gervase Bonel, his wife, stepson and two servants – in exchange for his manor and lands on the border with Wales. Though the formalities are incomplete, the ambitious Prior Robert is only too willing to accept the exchange, to further his credentials.
Soon after the family moves in, Bonel is suddenly stricken and dies from a poison from Cadfael’s own dispensary, and Cadfael is confounded as he recognises the widow as Richildis, the girl he courted as a teenager, now twice married. The evidence points to the son by her first marriage, but she and others are convinced he is innocent, asking Cadfael to investigate on their behalf. His journey takes him across the border into Wales – a different language and a people who practise a Celtic Christianity unhitched from Rome.
This series is an absolute delight. Written as English would be spoken back in the twelve century, with helpful maps and a glossary of medieval terms, it is easy for the reader to become immersed in the many places and characters. My own favourite: Hugh Beringar, deputy to the Sheriff of Shrewsbury, Gilbert Prestcote: he and Cadfael having a long-standing friendship.
There had been few direct questions asked, and few but oblique answers. Their conversation was often as devious as their relationship was easy and secure, but they understood each other.
Well recommended.
July 22, 2021
Обожаю, когда брат Кадфаэль уже обо всем догадался, а я ещё ни сном, ни духом. И общую безмятежность этих книжек, родом точно не из нашего века.
October 7, 2021
Снова очень уютно, но убийцу я на этот раз угадала буквально едва ли не до совершения убийства.
February 29, 2020
It is Christmas, 1138, and the hostilities of the Civil War have moved away from Shrewsbury Abbey, which is about to have a new household. Gervase Bonel is to sign his manor, Mallilie, to the Abbey, in order to ‘retire’ there. This involves him, and his wife, Richildis, moving into a property on the Abbey grounds, where they will be fed and clothed.
Cadfael becomes involved when Bonel is poisoned, using an oil that he had provided for the use of a fellow brother’s aching joints. Useful on the outside, it is highly poisonous when taken in food, or drink, and Cadfael’s warnings had been heard by many in the household. To complicate matters, Richildis was once, long ago, Cadfael’s sweetheart and she begs him for help that he can’t refuse. Her son, by her previous marriage, disinherited by Bonel, argued with his step-father the day of his death and is suspected of the murder.
Can Cadfael clear young Edwin, not yet fifteen years old, and disentangle those with a motive to kill – including the young villain, Aelfric, who feels he was tricked out of his freedom, and Bonel’s illegitimate son, Meurig. Worse, Cadfael himself provided the means of the death and feels a need to solve the crime.
The pleasure of this series, really, is to spend time with the characters. Reading them too closely together tends to highlight the similarities between the books – such as the love triangles that tend to pop up regularly. Still, good fun and comforting reading, with Cadfael always the calm voice of reason.
3.5
Cadfael becomes involved when Bonel is poisoned, using an oil that he had provided for the use of a fellow brother’s aching joints. Useful on the outside, it is highly poisonous when taken in food, or drink, and Cadfael’s warnings had been heard by many in the household. To complicate matters, Richildis was once, long ago, Cadfael’s sweetheart and she begs him for help that he can’t refuse. Her son, by her previous marriage, disinherited by Bonel, argued with his step-father the day of his death and is suspected of the murder.
Can Cadfael clear young Edwin, not yet fifteen years old, and disentangle those with a motive to kill – including the young villain, Aelfric, who feels he was tricked out of his freedom, and Bonel’s illegitimate son, Meurig. Worse, Cadfael himself provided the means of the death and feels a need to solve the crime.
The pleasure of this series, really, is to spend time with the characters. Reading them too closely together tends to highlight the similarities between the books – such as the love triangles that tend to pop up regularly. Still, good fun and comforting reading, with Cadfael always the calm voice of reason.
3.5
August 13, 2013
I have a feeling that this series will be like the series for me. Every book is solid, they give you the warm, cozy feeling, you enjoy the atmosphere and the immersion into another time and/or place, and what more can you say?
I almost feel this series would be stronger without the murder mystery aspect. I really enjoy feeling like I'm right there in the 12th century, working with Brother Cadfael and his herbs and potions. He is a decent man, and the book is kind and wise, but never preachy. I enjoy it. I always know this is a series I can come to for an entertaining comfort read.
I almost feel this series would be stronger without the murder mystery aspect. I really enjoy feeling like I'm right there in the 12th century, working with Brother Cadfael and his herbs and potions. He is a decent man, and the book is kind and wise, but never preachy. I enjoy it. I always know this is a series I can come to for an entertaining comfort read.
February 7, 2024
Although there were lots of things to like about 'Monk's Hood', the third Chronicle of Brother Cadfael, I didn't enjoy it as much as the first two, 'A Morbid Taste For Bones' and 'One Corpse Too Many'.
I loved the evocation of the lives of shepherds on a remote, two-man farm in winter. There was a sense of peace and an atmosphere closer to prayer and service than I feel when I'm reading about the Abbey.
The operation of the Welsh law courts grabbed my attention, both because I knew nothing about their distinctive way of working and because Ellis Peters used the court scene skillfully to generate tension that started low-key and escalated quite credibly into something dramatic.
As I'm beginning to expect, the plot was crafted to highlight an aspect of twelfth-century life that might hold a few surprises for modern readers. This time, the focus was on three manifestations of patriarchal power: the ability of a lord to disinherit his heirs and grant his estate to the Church. the lack of rights of widows and the practice of villeinage which could allow a free man to be enslaved and the children of villeins to be born into bondage,
All of this made for an entertaining read. The main problem that I had was with the plot. It was clever and held a few twists but I felt it was too dominant. For the first time, solving the mystery felt out of balance with getting to know the people, the place and the time. I thought too much time was spent explaining every detail and that the resolution was too tidy and hopeful to ring true.
That being said, this was still an enjoyable read and I'll be back for more Brother Cadfael soon.
I loved the evocation of the lives of shepherds on a remote, two-man farm in winter. There was a sense of peace and an atmosphere closer to prayer and service than I feel when I'm reading about the Abbey.
The operation of the Welsh law courts grabbed my attention, both because I knew nothing about their distinctive way of working and because Ellis Peters used the court scene skillfully to generate tension that started low-key and escalated quite credibly into something dramatic.
As I'm beginning to expect, the plot was crafted to highlight an aspect of twelfth-century life that might hold a few surprises for modern readers. This time, the focus was on three manifestations of patriarchal power: the ability of a lord to disinherit his heirs and grant his estate to the Church. the lack of rights of widows and the practice of villeinage which could allow a free man to be enslaved and the children of villeins to be born into bondage,
All of this made for an entertaining read. The main problem that I had was with the plot. It was clever and held a few twists but I felt it was too dominant. For the first time, solving the mystery felt out of balance with getting to know the people, the place and the time. I thought too much time was spent explaining every detail and that the resolution was too tidy and hopeful to ring true.
That being said, this was still an enjoyable read and I'll be back for more Brother Cadfael soon.
June 19, 2013
This is a yeoman's work mystery with a middle ages veil draped over it. Seriously, Ellis Peters' Monk's Hood felt like a throwaway whodunnit set in the medieval period. I know these are very popular, popular enough to have a tv series made from them, but I just don't see it. The whole thing could've been done in any setting at any time.
Being that this is the only book in the Cadfael series I've read, with no plans on reading more at this point, I'd be happy to hear from any fans that are willing to vouch for these books. Perhaps I grabbed a bad egg? Should I have started at the very beginning of the series? Does it get better as you go on? I'm willing to be cajoled!
Being that this is the only book in the Cadfael series I've read, with no plans on reading more at this point, I'd be happy to hear from any fans that are willing to vouch for these books. Perhaps I grabbed a bad egg? Should I have started at the very beginning of the series? Does it get better as you go on? I'm willing to be cajoled!
March 5, 2015
Excellent! As always, Brother Cadfael's wisdom shines through in this mystery. He does not rush to conclusions or believe coincidences but muddles through what clues there are to find the truth. And being a Brother, his opinion of the culprit isn't always as harsh as those of the law, compassion playing a large part in his decision.
The author does a wonderful job of putting the reader into the 12th century and uses dialogue that might have reflected that time period as well.
These stories are a wonderful glimpse into a different world and I appreciate the uniqueness of them!
The author does a wonderful job of putting the reader into the 12th century and uses dialogue that might have reflected that time period as well.
These stories are a wonderful glimpse into a different world and I appreciate the uniqueness of them!
June 12, 2024
This is my second time reading this and apparently I've either never written a review or I merely posted it on a Shelfari group. However, I gave it 4 stars back then, which is what I'd rate it now as well, since it's one of the better Cadfael installments and I can see why the average rating of this one is more than 4 stars. The blurb tells you virtually nothing about the book, which I think is good, because with mysteries, less is more. Suffice it to say that there are some great characters in this and that Cadfael and others work to solve the mystery of who murdered this man. Rest assured, he was never a suspect.
If you've never read a Cadfael novel, while you don't have to read them all in order, it's best to read the first two first so that certain things about certain characters are not spoilers. This is the third.
If you've never read a Cadfael novel, while you don't have to read them all in order, it's best to read the first two first so that certain things about certain characters are not spoilers. This is the third.
January 25, 2019
It is wintertime in Shrewsbury and an unpleasant man is poisoned. It takes Cadfael some sleuthing and a trip to Wales to find the culprit and exonerate an innocent suspect.
What I enjoyed most is the leadership change in the abbey and ci-devant abbot Heribert's introduction of his successor.
The monks have a warming-room in the winter where they can spend a little time every day - we have central heating. Makes me truly grateful.
Looking forward to the next one.
What I enjoyed most is the leadership change in the abbey and ci-devant abbot Heribert's introduction of his successor.
The monks have a warming-room in the winter where they can spend a little time every day - we have central heating. Makes me truly grateful.
Looking forward to the next one.
October 19, 2022
4.5 to 4.75 Stars rounded down. Very good. There should be a new Brother Cadfael series made animated somewhat in the style of the old illuminated manuscripts!
November 27, 2021
This is the third of the Brother Cadfael series. As in others of this series that I have read, I find a compassionate, intelligent, aware healer of bodies and souls.
December 16, 2019
It is 1138 and a kinder, gentler time than we have now, not only because Brother Cadfael peoples Ellis Peters' world. As in all books in this series – this is the third – there is a mysterious death, generally a murder, at the book's heart. Cadfael came late to his vocation, after a time soldiering in the Crusades. He left his heart with several women along the way.
In this book, Gervase Bonel has left his manor to the abbey, making some hearts envious and others excited: He had not been an evil man, only a child of his time and place (Kindle 2383). Bonel was given a special portion of a plump partridge for his dinner; unfortunately, it was poisoned with herbs from Cadfael's herbal stores. Perhaps more unfortunately, Bonel's wife was Cadfael's first love and the person accused of killing him is Mistress Bonel's son from her first marriage.
The events that unfold have an innocence to them that one doesn't regularly find in our world: 14-year-olds tusseling with each other, fooling adults, being mistaken for each other, and running away in a temper. Cadfael, as per usual, moves quietly and observantly through this world, drawing the conclusions that are obvious after we see them, but which we readily missed.
In the course of these interactions, we discover more about this world: a world where four-year-olds followed their uncle's plow with a sack of stones to scare the birds from the newly-laid seed in order to earn their keep; where men could lose their freedom because their fathers and brothers had worked as villeins, although free; and where if born in Wales, one was son, but in England, bastard.
Maybe not so gentle a world.
Yet, Cadfael approached his world with tranquillity of mind, prepared to be tolerant even towards the dull, pedestrian reading of Brother Francis, and long-winded legal haverings of Brother Benedict the sacristan. Men were variable, fallible, and to be humoured (Kindle 24).
And, when Cadfael approached his world in this way, he left more comfort and less uneasiness in his wake, even for the murderer, who he gives the penance, "Live, amend, in your dealings with sinners remember your own frailty, and in your dealings with the innocent, respect and use your own strength in their service" (Kindle 2995). In our world, people are judged by their crimes rather their character, their intent, or their ability to be rehabilitated, the last a goal that is given only lip service in our world. Cadfael reminds us that there are other ways of meting out justice.
Peters' mysteries are as much interesting for their interactions between characters – between Cadfael and the novice, Brother Mark; between the accused murderer and his nephew; and Cadfael and his best friend Hugh Berengar, the sheriff's deputy. In this exchange, Hugh and Cadfael are attempting to make sense of some strange events that happened after the apprehension of the murderer:
In this book, Gervase Bonel has left his manor to the abbey, making some hearts envious and others excited: He had not been an evil man, only a child of his time and place (Kindle 2383). Bonel was given a special portion of a plump partridge for his dinner; unfortunately, it was poisoned with herbs from Cadfael's herbal stores. Perhaps more unfortunately, Bonel's wife was Cadfael's first love and the person accused of killing him is Mistress Bonel's son from her first marriage.
The events that unfold have an innocence to them that one doesn't regularly find in our world: 14-year-olds tusseling with each other, fooling adults, being mistaken for each other, and running away in a temper. Cadfael, as per usual, moves quietly and observantly through this world, drawing the conclusions that are obvious after we see them, but which we readily missed.
In the course of these interactions, we discover more about this world: a world where four-year-olds followed their uncle's plow with a sack of stones to scare the birds from the newly-laid seed in order to earn their keep; where men could lose their freedom because their fathers and brothers had worked as villeins, although free; and where if born in Wales, one was son, but in England, bastard.
Maybe not so gentle a world.
Yet, Cadfael approached his world with tranquillity of mind, prepared to be tolerant even towards the dull, pedestrian reading of Brother Francis, and long-winded legal haverings of Brother Benedict the sacristan. Men were variable, fallible, and to be humoured (Kindle 24).
And, when Cadfael approached his world in this way, he left more comfort and less uneasiness in his wake, even for the murderer, who he gives the penance, "Live, amend, in your dealings with sinners remember your own frailty, and in your dealings with the innocent, respect and use your own strength in their service" (Kindle 2995). In our world, people are judged by their crimes rather their character, their intent, or their ability to be rehabilitated, the last a goal that is given only lip service in our world. Cadfael reminds us that there are other ways of meting out justice.
Peters' mysteries are as much interesting for their interactions between characters – between Cadfael and the novice, Brother Mark; between the accused murderer and his nephew; and Cadfael and his best friend Hugh Berengar, the sheriff's deputy. In this exchange, Hugh and Cadfael are attempting to make sense of some strange events that happened after the apprehension of the murderer:
“I hear you lost a horse while you were up on the borders,” said Beringar.This is a world that I need to visit regularly. I'm thankful that Peters wrote 20 books in this series. By the time I finish them, I can start again. Maybe I'll do them in order this time.
“Mea culpa!” owned Cadfael. “I left the stable unlocked.”
“About the same time as the Llansilin court lost a man,” observed Hugh.
“Well, you’re surely not blaming me for that. I found him for them, and then they couldn’t keep their hold on him.”
“I suppose they’ll have the price of the horse out of you, one way or the other?”
“No doubt it will come up at chapter tomorrow. No matter,” said Brother Cadfael placidly, “as long as no one here can dun me for the price of the man.”....
“I’ve been saving a piece of news for you, Cadfael, my friend. Every few days a new wonder out of Wales! Only yesterday I got word from Chester that a rider who gave no name came into one of the granges of the monastery of Beddgelert, and left there his horse, asking that the brothers would give it stable-room until it could be returned to the Benedictine brothers at the sheepfolds of Rhydycroesau, whence it had been borrowed. (Kindle 3134)
August 10, 2024
(third reading: May 2016, fourth reading: August 2024)
“Every time I come near you I find myself compounding a felony.”
One of the best of the twenty chronicles. I am not one to judge the merits of murder mysteries, but as historical fiction this takes the reader right into the history and culture of twelfth century England and Wales. Improves with subsequent readings. Set in July 1139 during The Anarchy of rival claimants for the English throne.
“What seems to be an easy life in contemplation can be hard enough when it comes to reality.”
Along the way Pargeter treats us to multiple suspects, blind allies, false trails, officious police and even abbey politics. All peppered with homey aphorisms about life then and now. Thoroughly enjoyable reading.
“The means of comfort and healing should not be used to kill.”
Quibble: twelfth century law would not so easily release a murder suspect in hand to another, lesser-in-their-eyes authority for horse stealing. Despite a game attempt to explain it away, it blatantly served plot advancement, not realism.
“We are all the victims and the heirs of our fellow-man.”
Cadfael series: excellent historical fiction. Ellis Peters draws the reader into the twelfth century with modern story telling but holds us there with a richness of detail which evokes a time and place which might as well be mythic. Though the foreground of each chronicle is a murder mystery, behind it a nation and a culture are woven in a wondrous tapestry.
“Every time I come near you I find myself compounding a felony.”
One of the best of the twenty chronicles. I am not one to judge the merits of murder mysteries, but as historical fiction this takes the reader right into the history and culture of twelfth century England and Wales. Improves with subsequent readings. Set in July 1139 during The Anarchy of rival claimants for the English throne.
“What seems to be an easy life in contemplation can be hard enough when it comes to reality.”
Along the way Pargeter treats us to multiple suspects, blind allies, false trails, officious police and even abbey politics. All peppered with homey aphorisms about life then and now. Thoroughly enjoyable reading.
“The means of comfort and healing should not be used to kill.”
Quibble: twelfth century law would not so easily release a murder suspect in hand to another, lesser-in-their-eyes authority for horse stealing. Despite a game attempt to explain it away, it blatantly served plot advancement, not realism.
“We are all the victims and the heirs of our fellow-man.”
Cadfael series: excellent historical fiction. Ellis Peters draws the reader into the twelfth century with modern story telling but holds us there with a richness of detail which evokes a time and place which might as well be mythic. Though the foreground of each chronicle is a murder mystery, behind it a nation and a culture are woven in a wondrous tapestry.
June 18, 2022
Non so come siano gli altri libri della serie di fratello Cadfael, ma questo l'ho trovato di una noia mostruosa. Poco più di 200 pagine che mi sono trascinata per una settimana sperando in una accelerazione della storia che non arriva mai.
Al centro della vicenda, la morte per avvelenamento di un anziano possidente e la sua eredità. Nonostante come contorno ci sia l'arrivo in città di una vecchia fiamma del nostro protagonista e la contesa per il ruolo di abate, questo romanzo non mi ha proprio conquistata.
Al centro della vicenda, la morte per avvelenamento di un anziano possidente e la sua eredità. Nonostante come contorno ci sia l'arrivo in città di una vecchia fiamma del nostro protagonista e la contesa per il ruolo di abate, questo romanzo non mi ha proprio conquistata.
December 27, 2015
This is the best of the series so far. I love Father Cadfael; his outlook, his thoughts....everything about him.
This mystery brought out some interesting facts of law in the medieval times of England and Wales. I enjoy how Ellis Peters brings out the history and village life-styles.
The murder in this book is interesting and the book kept me thinking about circumstances throughout.
This mystery brought out some interesting facts of law in the medieval times of England and Wales. I enjoy how Ellis Peters brings out the history and village life-styles.
The murder in this book is interesting and the book kept me thinking about circumstances throughout.
July 24, 2020
Honestly, I cannot say whether this is a reread or not. I recalled the basics of the plot from seeing the TV adaptation (with Derek Jacobi) but even knowing the solution to the mystery, this book was enjoyable to read. Peters did a masterful job of conveying life in 11oos England & Wales and Cadfael is a wonderful protagonist.
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