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cmbohn's review against another edition
4.0
This book contains three stories about Brother Cadfael, one that occurred before he took the cowl and two that were later.
tylersimko's review against another edition
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
3.0
bowienerd_82's review against another edition
4.0
I very much enjoyed this little collection of short stories, particularly because the edition I got from the library had illuminated manuscript style illustration (a lovely surprise). I also enjoyed the intro by the author- it was nice to see some of her thoughts on Cadfael and the series.
The first story ("A Light on the Road to Woodstock") was perhaps the least interesting, despite being the story that leads to Cadfael becoming a friar. It was fun to see him in his earlier days, but really not that necessary, and the mystery itself was hardly that.
The second story ("The Price of Light") was the most compelling of the bunch. Set in earlier days of Cadfael's monkhood than the books, it was a nice little microcosm of the usual book style, making me wish that the author had written more Cadfael short stories.
The last story ("Eye Witness") was also well done, and I enjoyed seeing some of the townspeople. It wasn't a particularly remarkable story, but it was still a pleasure to read.
The first story ("A Light on the Road to Woodstock") was perhaps the least interesting, despite being the story that leads to Cadfael becoming a friar. It was fun to see him in his earlier days, but really not that necessary, and the mystery itself was hardly that.
The second story ("The Price of Light") was the most compelling of the bunch. Set in earlier days of Cadfael's monkhood than the books, it was a nice little microcosm of the usual book style, making me wish that the author had written more Cadfael short stories.
The last story ("Eye Witness") was also well done, and I enjoyed seeing some of the townspeople. It wasn't a particularly remarkable story, but it was still a pleasure to read.
ellisknox's review
3.0
For some reason I thought this was going to be a novel, but it's actually three shorts. Even so, it's always a pleasure to read Peters. Brother Cadfael is one of the most agreeable characters in detective fiction. Father Brown is a little sharp; fun to read, but it's difficult to get away from Chesterton's preachy tone. Peters never preaches, only teaches.
If you're new to Brother Cadfael's adventures, I recommend any of the novels. This one's more for completists.
If you're new to Brother Cadfael's adventures, I recommend any of the novels. This one's more for completists.
sharon_geitz's review against another edition
4.0
A perfect short read, 3 short stories featuring Brother Cadfael. A perfect read for a between larger books kind of read.
chandraisenberg's review against another edition
4.0
A Rare Benedictine was great! The three short stories included in this book apparently provide the background to how Brother Cadfael joined the Benedictine Order. This book was a major page turner. Brother Cadfael is like a medieval Sherlock Holmes with a tonsure. I'm so excited to read the novels!
crystalisreading's review against another edition
4.0
A mild, pleasant collection of Brother Cadfael stories. If other books are desperate chases or hilarious romps, this collection is like a slow, leisurely stroll through nice scenery, where one points out the lovely sunset and that cute young couple and the frolicking squirrels and whatnot. I can't even remember many details about any of the stories, three days later. I did like the Cadfael origin story--it fit with what we knew of him, but added a little extra dimension to my understanding of his motivations. Of course, all the stories feature comly lads and lasses and true love, often illicit, but all the sweeter for it. A lovely light read for when you're craving low-stakes, charming historical cozy mysteries.
volare's review
5.0
This is a wonderful book with three very charming short stories, one of which, "A Light on the Road to Woodstock", is the origin story for Brother Cadfael. I enjoy these Brother Cadfael stories for the sense of peace they bring to me. The voice they are written in is so calming and kind. Brother Cadfael is himself such a lovely, generous, and brilliant fellow. A role model for all of us.
During these challenging COVID-19 days, Brother Cadfael is a wonderful tonic!
During these challenging COVID-19 days, Brother Cadfael is a wonderful tonic!
summermsmith's review against another edition
4.0
I really enjoyed the three short prequels to the Brother Cadfael series. It is set in 12th c. Wales and/or in the border of and deals with the man that used to be a Crusader turned Benedictine monk. I have secretly/ not now so secretly, wished to stay in an abbey/monastery and experience the quiet especially with magnificent gardens. I've seen these books and have been curious about them and figured why not. I have also learned 15 new words in a 118 page book. Even if they are Archaic. It is by no means a fast paced thriller but I find myself relaxing reading them.
I really enjoyed the entertaining of the illustration for this book. I thought it was clever.
I really enjoyed the entertaining of the illustration for this book. I thought it was clever.
elzbethmrgn's review against another edition
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0