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A review by english_lady03
A Morbid Taste for Bones by Ellis Peters
4.0
Of course, I have seen the TV adaptation of this Cadfael Mystery, so I knew who did it and there were no great surprises, but the book has more in it, including the relationship between Brother John (Cadfael's original novice) and Angest, Sioned's maid.
The character of Cadfael in the book might shock fans of the series somewhat. He's more skeptical, jaded, perhaps even slightly unpleasant.
The details about Welsh culture (such as the lack of a coin based economy in rural areas) and the importance of tribal and familial ties was interesting. Makes me want to learn more about Medieval Wales.
Of course, this is a mystery. As far as it went, well if I didn't already see the adaptation I probably wouldn't guess who had done it, although I did find the revelation a little sudden without many clues either way. I think there's a lot more emphasis on character development and motivations then just the mystery though, as well as an interesting exploration of the Medieval attitude towards Saints and relics.
The character of Cadfael in the book might shock fans of the series somewhat. He's more skeptical, jaded, perhaps even slightly unpleasant.
The details about Welsh culture (such as the lack of a coin based economy in rural areas) and the importance of tribal and familial ties was interesting. Makes me want to learn more about Medieval Wales.
Of course, this is a mystery. As far as it went, well if I didn't already see the adaptation I probably wouldn't guess who had done it, although I did find the revelation a little sudden without many clues either way. I think there's a lot more emphasis on character development and motivations then just the mystery though, as well as an interesting exploration of the Medieval attitude towards Saints and relics.