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3.73 AVERAGE
3.73 AVERAGE
This book took a long time to get going. The main plot point didn't occur until page 80 - and it was tough to pay attention through a wide swatch of characters and head hopping.
Once the book got through the swing of things it got better, though the 2nd half moved really quickly. I enjoyed seeing everything tied up neatly in the end, but the pacing was very screwy.
Overall, this was one I think my grandparents might approve of - nothing too grisly or graphic, but still a fun read.
Once the book got through the swing of things it got better, though the 2nd half moved really quickly. I enjoyed seeing everything tied up neatly in the end, but the pacing was very screwy.
Overall, this was one I think my grandparents might approve of - nothing too grisly or graphic, but still a fun read.
Cadfael first came to my knowledge many years ago in the form of the tv show. Recently I discovered it on Amazon and re-watched it. This brought to mind that I had never actually read the books. I remedied that. I really enjoyed Ellis Peters writing style. While you might not think a Benedictine monk as the most exciting of characters to go around solving murders, Cadfael is the sort of character that you wish were a real person. He is steady and sensible, but also carries a deep compassion and delight for people. Peters has a lovely, lyrical type of writing. It flows and draws you along with it. I plan on reading more of her books (as soon as I finish the other three I'm trying to read at once).
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
this was one of my granny's favourite murder mysteries and i am so excited to have finally gotten around to reading it.
it is a canny and interesting murder, and the mystery is short and snappy. this neatly toes the line of appropriate criticisms of the church, mysticism and the people who utilise the structure of the church to abuse their power.
it is a canny and interesting murder, and the mystery is short and snappy. this neatly toes the line of appropriate criticisms of the church, mysticism and the people who utilise the structure of the church to abuse their power.
adventurous
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
lighthearted
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
adventurous
mysterious
relaxing
medium-paced
adventurous
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
The first book of the Cadfael Chronicles, credited for popularization of the historical mystery genre. Set in the England of year, it incorporates real people and events to tell the story.
The impetus of the story is the transfer of the remains of St Winifred from Wales to England, as commanded by the saint herself through a vision. Though the local Welshmen are not too happy about this. The man leading the opposition ends up dead, which is claimed to be divine punishment.
Our protagonist, Brother Cadfael, a benedictine monk however believes this to be work of purely human malice. He has to rely only his own wits and wisdom to solve this mystery, and come up with a resolution that will keep everyone happy.
A quick and easy read, the mystery is compelling enough to keep you hooked, with great insights on Christian theology and welsh culture.
Okay, this is just damned charming. It's snarky and sweet at the same time, and of course the setting is complete catnip for me. The mystery is good, and overall just very very enjoyable. I look forward to the other books in the series.