An Excellent Mystery

By: Ellis Peters

Narrated by: Roe Kendall

This is the eleventh chronicle of Brother Cadfael, of the Benedictine Abbey of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, at Shrewsbury.

In the year of our Lord 1141, August comes in golden as a lion, and two monks ride into the Benedictine Abbey of Saint Peter and Saint Paul bringing with them disturbing news of war...and a mystery.

The strangers tell how the strife between the Empress Maud and King Stephan has destroyed the town of Winchester and their priory. Now Brother Humilis, who is handsome, gaunt, and very ill, and Brother Fidelis, youthful, comely (and totally mute) must seek refuge at Shrewsury. And from the moment he meets them, Brother Cadfael senses something deeper than their common vows binds these two good brothers. What the link is he can only guess...what it will lead to is beyond his imagining. But as Brother Humilis' health fails, and nothing can stop death's lengthening shade, Brother Cadfael faces a poignant test of his discretion and his beliefs as he unravels a secret so great it can destroy a life, a future, and a holy order.

©1984, 1985, 1987 Ellis Peters (P)2000 Blackstone Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"Absorbing, superbly crafted....Unflagging tension which builds to a swift, satisfying climax....Peters never disappoints" (Kirkus Reviews)

Among Peters’ best

This is among my favorite of the Brother Cadfael adventures, and most mysterious of murder mysteries. The story is less centered on Brother Cadfael than most, lifting up other members of the community, but as always Peters’ rich portraits of the inner workings of people and detailed knowledge of medieval life bring to life of a far distant world. Roe Kendall’s superb narrative excellently complement the story.

one of the best plots ever

this is my favorite Cadfael book. The story is weaved together so well.

I love Roe Kendalls narration. Great voice actor

A good historical mystery .

I enjoyed the story. The narration was well done but,missed the Welsh accent by a continent for the series lead man Cadfael.

A poor choice for reader

The narrator made Cadfael sound like a young Indian rather than old Welshman. It was difficult to listen to.

Good mystery!

Very enjoyable. I enjoy the Brother Cadfael mysteries, and this was no exception. Good narrator, too.