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A Morbid Taste for Bones

Book 1 in the series:Chronicles of Brother Cadfael

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'A Morbid Taste for Bones' in the series 'Chronicles of Brother Cadfael' follows the protagonist Brother Cadfael, a medieval monk and amateur sleuth, as he accompanies a group of monks on a journey to a Welsh village to retrieve the relics of a saint. The local community opposes the relocation of the saint's bones, and when a murder occurs, suspicion falls on the monks. Brother Cadfael takes it upon himself to investigate the murder and unravel the deception surrounding the crime, all while bringing justice to the Welsh village they have invaded.

The plot of the book combines historical fiction with mystery, featuring well-developed characters and intricate descriptions of the medieval setting. The narrative follows Brother Cadfael's intelligent and deft hand in solving the murder mystery, incorporating themes of justice, deception, and the clash between different cultures and beliefs.

Characters:

The characters are well-defined, with Cadfael's pragmatism contrasting sharply with the ambition of others.

Writing/Prose:

The writing combines humor with historical detail, creating an engaging and thoughtful narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative involves a quest to acquire saintly relics which leads to murder, prompting Cadfael to investigate.

Setting:

The story is set in 12th century England and Wales, showcasing both monastic life and rural challenges.

Pacing:

The pacing is slower, emphasizing characters and setting, with crucial plot developments unfolding gradually.
ON THE FINE, BRIGHT MORNING IN EARLY MAY when the whole sensational affair of the Gwytherin relics may properly be considered to have begun, Brother Cadfael had been up long before Prime, pricking out...

Notes:

Brother Cadfael is a 57-year-old Benedictine monk living in the 12th century in Shrewsbury, England.
He has a colorful past, including involvement in the Crusades.
Cadfael works in the herbarium of the abbey and has knowledge of medicinal herbs.
The plot revolves around the quest for the bones of St. Winifred from a Welsh village.
The abbey's prior is ambitious and wants the saint's relics to boost the abbey's status.
Brother Cadfael serves as an interpreter during the expedition to Wales.
There is a significant cultural clash between the monks and the villagers in Gwytherin.
A murder occurs shortly after the monks arrive, complicating their mission.
Brother Cadfael uses his intellect and experience to solve the murder mystery.
The story includes elements of romance and match-making, reflecting Cadfael's character.
The book provides insights into religious life in 12th Century England and Wales.
Cadfael has fond memories of his youth, which influences his interactions with others.
The narrative mixes humor with the serious themes of murder and ambition.
The series is known for its historical detail and character development.

Has Romance?

There are elements of romance woven into the narrative, particularly involving the younger characters.

From The Publisher:

The ambitious head of Shrewsbury Abbey wants to acquire Saint Winifred's sacred remains for his Benedictine order. And when the ensuing controversy leads to murder, Brother Cadfael investigates.

Ratings (18)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (13)
Liked It (3)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (52):

Read It (19)
Want To Read (21)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (11)
 
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