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3.73 AVERAGE
3.73 AVERAGE
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I just wasn't in the mood for this book, I don't remember why I put it on my queue, it's been months.
Unusually for me, I enjoyed the imagery and quiet descriptions of the landscape and characters, which breathed life into this book as historical fiction. Usually I just want plot plot plot. I had a hard time paying attention to this, for whatever reason. I do like the character of Cadfael, though, especially the way in which he seems worldy but not jaded, and pious but not lawful good. I would like to read more books, if only for him. The historical setting, as well as the fact that Cadfael is a monk, makes for a different twist on the cozy mystery. Since there aren't modern forensics, it was interesting to see the way in which Ellis Peters wrote her characters investigating and luring out the murderer.
I love a good historical murder mystery and this one was fine enough. The uncovering of the mystery was OK, and had some development to it. Cadfael was an enjoyable enough character, although it was hard to reason why he'd joined the monastery given he shows dislike enough about it.
Honestly I feel that the depiction of medieval religion as a whole was off, and at times even mean-spirited, trying to dunk on those who lived over a thousand years ago. The split 'good' characters who are shown ambivalent at best, or dismissive at worst towards religion, and the 'bad' characters who are deeply religious feels insensitive, and is just historically inaccurate to boot. Probably just stick with the Shardlakes if you're wanting something both enjoyable and accurate.
Honestly I feel that the depiction of medieval religion as a whole was off, and at times even mean-spirited, trying to dunk on those who lived over a thousand years ago. The split 'good' characters who are shown ambivalent at best, or dismissive at worst towards religion, and the 'bad' characters who are deeply religious feels insensitive, and is just historically inaccurate to boot. Probably just stick with the Shardlakes if you're wanting something both enjoyable and accurate.
I really enjoyed reading this. This really combined several things I really love, a good period mystery and a medieval history book. What's more, most of it took place in Wales, which I'm always happy to read about. The characters also felt extremely real, and I became quite fond of Cadfael by the end. I would definitely recommend this book, and I look forward to reading more of the series in the future.
lighthearted
mysterious
slow-paced
DNFing at 45% just because I'm in a slump and it's too difficult for me to read rn :(
A very enjoyable little bit of historical fiction. Solid writing, endearing characters, cute plot, if thin in places. Not at all trying to be another Name of the Rose or Matthew Shardlake, and is all the better for it. Go in without expecting high lit and you'll probably enjoy it.
I enjoy Cadfael mysteries. Slower paced, not crazily exciting, but enjoyable, interesting, and fun. This one is a good introduction to the series.
adventurous
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Death of parent, Murder
Moderate: Sexism
Minor: Xenophobia, Blood, Pregnancy, Alcohol