3.97
Part of "Chronicles of Brother Cadfael" series
"A Morbid Taste for Bones" by Ellis Peters is a captivating historical mystery novel that transports readers to the 12th century Welsh Marches. The story revolves around Brother Cadfael, a Benedictine monk with a past life as a crusader, who has a knack for solving crimes. The novel begins with the arrival of a group of monks from Shrewsbury Abbey, who wish to transfer the remains of Saint Winifred to their own abbey. The monks travel to the small Welsh village of Gwytherin, where the saint is said to have lived and been martyred. However, the villagers are fiercely protective of their saint and refuse to give up her bones. When the body of a young monk is found dead near the saint's well, Brother Cadfael suspects foul play. He begins to investigate the murder, uncovering a web of secrets, feuds, and hidden relationships within the village. As Cadfael delves deeper into the mystery, he must navigate the tensions between the Welsh villagers and the English monks, as well as the political maneuverings of the local nobility. Peters's vivid descriptions of the Welsh countryside and the daily life of the monks bring the 12th century to life, while her complex characters and intricate plot make for a compelling read. "A Morbid Taste for Bones" is a delightful blend of history, mystery, and human drama, and it is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and cozy mysteries. The novel is the first in the Cadfael Chronicles, a series of 20 books that follow Brother Cadfael's adventures as he solves crimes and upholds justice in his community. "A Morbid Taste for Bones" sets the stage for the series, introducing readers to Cadfael's unique perspective and establishing the historical and cultural context for the stories to come. Overall, "A Morbid Taste for Bones" is a rich and rewarding read that will transport you to another time and place, and leave you eager for more of Brother Cadfael's adventures...
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