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Chronicles of Brother Cadfael #4
St. Peter's Fair
A pause in the civil war offers Shrewsbury's townsfolk hope that the upcoming fair will be successful, but the discovery of the body of a wealthy merchant could destroy that hope.
268 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 1981
1678 people are currently reading
2777 people want to read
About the author
Ellis Peters
207 books1,146 followersA pseudonym used by Edith Pargeter.
Edith Mary Pargeter, OBE, BEM was a prolific author of works in many categories, especially history and historical fiction, and was also honoured for her translations of Czech classics; she is probably best known for her murder mysteries, both historical and modern. Born in the village of Horsehay (Shropshire, England), she had Welsh ancestry, and many of her short stories and books (both fictional and non-fictional) were set in Wales and its borderlands.
During World War II, she worked in an administrative role in the Women's Royal Naval Service, and received the British Empire Medal - BEM.
Pargeter wrote under a number of pseudonyms; it was under the name Ellis Peters that she wrote the highly popular series of Brother Cadfael medieval mysteries, many of which were made into films for television.
Edith Mary Pargeter, OBE, BEM was a prolific author of works in many categories, especially history and historical fiction, and was also honoured for her translations of Czech classics; she is probably best known for her murder mysteries, both historical and modern. Born in the village of Horsehay (Shropshire, England), she had Welsh ancestry, and many of her short stories and books (both fictional and non-fictional) were set in Wales and its borderlands.
During World War II, she worked in an administrative role in the Women's Royal Naval Service, and received the British Empire Medal - BEM.
Pargeter wrote under a number of pseudonyms; it was under the name Ellis Peters that she wrote the highly popular series of Brother Cadfael medieval mysteries, many of which were made into films for television.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 683 reviews
October 30, 2025
The fourth Chronicle of Brother Cadfael, Saint Peter's Fair, is another great novel of the series. It had all the characteristics that made me fall for the series in the first place. I have come to notice that these stories are at their best when multiple characters and multiple actions are involved. Their absence tends to make the story a bit slow and monotonous.
Saint Peter's Fair presents a complex and intriguing plot. A cunningly planned murder causes chaos at the annual St. Peter's Fair hosted by the Shrewsbury Abbey. Soon, an assault and another murder follow suit. Are they all connected or separate incidents? Is it the work of one man or several? These are the questions to which Brother Cadfael and Hugh Beringar must find answers in order to unravel the murderer.
Ellis Peters writes the mystery well. She works through a tangle of possibilities and presents us with several suspects. Until the final chapters, it wasn't easy to single out one suspect. The motive was political, and I'm glad to have gotten that right from the beginning. :)
In addition to the mystery, I enjoyed reading about the growing bond between Cadfael and the Berringars. More and more, Cadfael comes to regard Hugh and Aline like his children, and they, in turn, treat him like a father figure. I liked Brother Cadfael from the very first novel, and I'm becoming more and more fond of him. I like his sense of justice - human and not rigid.
This novel is the best in the series so far, and like the first two, the fourth chronicle will stay in my mind for a long time to come.
More of my reviews can be found at http://piyangiejay.com/
Saint Peter's Fair presents a complex and intriguing plot. A cunningly planned murder causes chaos at the annual St. Peter's Fair hosted by the Shrewsbury Abbey. Soon, an assault and another murder follow suit. Are they all connected or separate incidents? Is it the work of one man or several? These are the questions to which Brother Cadfael and Hugh Beringar must find answers in order to unravel the murderer.
Ellis Peters writes the mystery well. She works through a tangle of possibilities and presents us with several suspects. Until the final chapters, it wasn't easy to single out one suspect. The motive was political, and I'm glad to have gotten that right from the beginning. :)
In addition to the mystery, I enjoyed reading about the growing bond between Cadfael and the Berringars. More and more, Cadfael comes to regard Hugh and Aline like his children, and they, in turn, treat him like a father figure. I liked Brother Cadfael from the very first novel, and I'm becoming more and more fond of him. I like his sense of justice - human and not rigid.
This novel is the best in the series so far, and like the first two, the fourth chronicle will stay in my mind for a long time to come.
More of my reviews can be found at http://piyangiejay.com/
August 11, 2021
The Fourth Chronicle Of Brother Cadfael, Of The Benedictine Abbey Of Saint Peter And Saint Paul, At Shrewsbury
Trouble between the Abby of St. Peter and St. Paul and the town of Shrewsbury leads to a minor riot at the yearly Fair of St. Peter. Then there is murder, intrigue, a wrongly suspected man and of course a damsel in need of assistance. All set against the backdrop of civil war between King Stephen and Empress Maud. Naturally Brother Cadfael is in the midst of it all along with Deputy Sheriff Hugh Beringar. A delightful, gentle mystery with fine and likeable characters. Who can be trusted?
A caveat concerning my reviews of Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael mysteries: I like them. I have read most of them more than once and seen the BBC TV series several times. I will give all of them, books and TV episodes, very favorable reviews. But it is not blind allegiance to Peters. I am not impressed with many of her non-Cadfael mysteries.
Trouble between the Abby of St. Peter and St. Paul and the town of Shrewsbury leads to a minor riot at the yearly Fair of St. Peter. Then there is murder, intrigue, a wrongly suspected man and of course a damsel in need of assistance. All set against the backdrop of civil war between King Stephen and Empress Maud. Naturally Brother Cadfael is in the midst of it all along with Deputy Sheriff Hugh Beringar. A delightful, gentle mystery with fine and likeable characters. Who can be trusted?
A caveat concerning my reviews of Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael mysteries: I like them. I have read most of them more than once and seen the BBC TV series several times. I will give all of them, books and TV episodes, very favorable reviews. But it is not blind allegiance to Peters. I am not impressed with many of her non-Cadfael mysteries.
January 17, 2013
Everybody knows about this fabulous writer of historical cozy mysteries, murders and crimes, so what can I add? Just that, don't read the first of the Brother Cadfael series and think, that isn't SO impressive, and stop there! This was better than A Morbid Taste for Bones, the very first in the series. I am no fan of mysteries, be they cozy or not, but the characters in this series draw you in. You cannot help but enjoy learning a spot of history among these good-souled people. Being in their company is comforting. You sigh with relief - there are nice people out there! What I particularly like is how it is not the historical events themselves that are stressed, but rather how these events play out in the lives of normal people. This is what draws me into reading about history, not the titles and dates and battle skirmishes. No, it is how life was for ordinary people living at the time. I like that the mystery itself is clearly explained. Brother Cadfael and Hugh Beringar explain how they reason, how they have come to their conclusions. Others may find this repetitive, but I love it. I hate tricky mysteries where I do not totally understand what is going on! Oh, and thirdly, the description of medieval life is superb!
Wow, a mystery novel series that I will be returning to. My dear GR friends have explained it is not necessary to read them in order. I loved listening to the audiobook, and given the generosity of Audible (see below), I will very soon continue with The Leper of Saint Giles and then The Sanctuary Sparrow and then Monk's Hood. What next? I guess Dead Man's Ransom or An Excellent Mystery, but the last is not set in lovely Shrewsburg! I would choose One Corpse Too Many, the second in the series, IF it were available. That is where you are first introduced to Hugh Beringar! Thanks, Gundula, for persistently stating that this series is wonderful. I must thank both Gundula and Shomeret for guiding me toward the next choices!
THIS IS IMPORTANT: I purchased from Audible the audiobook format of this book. It had release date: 010197. Narrator Johanna Ward. This version had a different cover. The recording was bad, although I could hear it. There was a background rumble and sometimes you heard an echo where there should be silence. You heard voices in the background. So I complained. Audible has another audiobook (release date 070510). It costs the same, has the same length and narrator, but the cover looks like the one above. I suggested to Audible that they exchange the two. First they offered to repay what I had paid for the book, but because I had bought it on sale the reimbursement would not cover the price of the other version since the sale is now over. What did they do? They gave me a credit to buy the other version AND repaid what I spent AND gave me a 30USD coupon! Now tell me if Audible isn't fantastic!!!! I love working with Audible. I want people to know how wonderful they are.
So, if you get this as an audiobook, buy the one that has release date 071510! IMPORTANT.
BTW - this is good! I love the description of the medieval times. I am not fussing about all the details, just enjoying the story. I am not going to get all stressed up and worry about the incriminating evidence. I am doing exactly as Gundula has advised me. You know what? I actually understand everything anyway! So far at least! This mystery is in fact very, very good. Thank you, Gundula, for recommending this one of the series! It is my third.
Wow, a mystery novel series that I will be returning to. My dear GR friends have explained it is not necessary to read them in order. I loved listening to the audiobook, and given the generosity of Audible (see below), I will very soon continue with The Leper of Saint Giles and then The Sanctuary Sparrow and then Monk's Hood. What next? I guess Dead Man's Ransom or An Excellent Mystery, but the last is not set in lovely Shrewsburg! I would choose One Corpse Too Many, the second in the series, IF it were available. That is where you are first introduced to Hugh Beringar! Thanks, Gundula, for persistently stating that this series is wonderful. I must thank both Gundula and Shomeret for guiding me toward the next choices!
THIS IS IMPORTANT: I purchased from Audible the audiobook format of this book. It had release date: 010197. Narrator Johanna Ward. This version had a different cover. The recording was bad, although I could hear it. There was a background rumble and sometimes you heard an echo where there should be silence. You heard voices in the background. So I complained. Audible has another audiobook (release date 070510). It costs the same, has the same length and narrator, but the cover looks like the one above. I suggested to Audible that they exchange the two. First they offered to repay what I had paid for the book, but because I had bought it on sale the reimbursement would not cover the price of the other version since the sale is now over. What did they do? They gave me a credit to buy the other version AND repaid what I spent AND gave me a 30USD coupon! Now tell me if Audible isn't fantastic!!!! I love working with Audible. I want people to know how wonderful they are.
So, if you get this as an audiobook, buy the one that has release date 071510! IMPORTANT.
BTW - this is good! I love the description of the medieval times. I am not fussing about all the details, just enjoying the story. I am not going to get all stressed up and worry about the incriminating evidence. I am doing exactly as Gundula has advised me. You know what? I actually understand everything anyway! So far at least! This mystery is in fact very, very good. Thank you, Gundula, for recommending this one of the series! It is my third.
November 24, 2023
My favorite of this series so far. I loved the quality of Ellis Peter's writing and the story is full of treachery, murder, and most importantly humanity. It was wonderful to have the time to listen for hours yesterday while I was painting, and then to finish the tale in the quiet of the early morning today.
Cadfael is described: "He had been sixteen years a monk, by his own considered choice, which he had never regretted after a very adventurous life, which he had never regretted either, and he was virtually out of reach of surprise."
He is also described as being "fifty-nine years old with a world of experience stored away within him and still as tough as a badger."
Cadfael is described: "He had been sixteen years a monk, by his own considered choice, which he had never regretted after a very adventurous life, which he had never regretted either, and he was virtually out of reach of surprise."
He is also described as being "fifty-nine years old with a world of experience stored away within him and still as tough as a badger."
September 30, 2024
While the fact that in Ellis Peters' Saint Peter's Fair, there are multiple murders has always bothered me a just wee bit (for one of the best parts of the Brother Cadfael series to and for me actually is that unlike so many historic mysteries, Ellis Peters does not usually have too much of a body count present in her novels), I do realise that the two supplemental murders post the demise of Thomas of Bristol are actually essential for both the development and moving along of the plot, of the storyline itself and also and importantly for once and for all clearing the name of the individual who had been originally accused of Thomas of Bristol's death and jailed for this (although truth be told, I for one never from the first assumed that Philip Corviser was guilty and always did find Ivo Corbiere too good to be true, too slick and too creepy in an arrogant way).
But aside from my very minor quips regarding more than one body, more than one murder in Saint Peter's Fair, this is probably one of my favourites of the earlier Brother Cadfael novels. For yes indeed, aside from the realistic portrait of 12th century Mediaeval England (and a typical church-run and organised fair) which Ellis Peters delightfully and descriptively paints (not to mention the historical details on the Civil War between King Stephen and the Empress Maud), I also and totally absolutely do adore both Brother Cadfael and Hugh Beringar as characters and how Ellis Peters shows in Saint Peter's Fair the every strengthening bond of friendship and comradeship between the two of them and yes, how first and foremost Hugh Beringar is for justice, law and order but also does not really ever impose his being King Stephen's man on everyone and therefore does not for example even expect Brother Cadfael to choose sides in the conflict between Stephen and Maud. And even though Hugh Beringar quickly realises that Emma Verold knows more about why her uncle Thomas might have been murdered and that it has likely something to do with the civil war, with clandestine messages and subterfuge, Hugh never is anything but both civil and even affectionate towards her, he does not put Emma in distress (and after her being rescued from Ivo Corbiere's clutches by Philip, Hugh backs off, leaves Emma alone and top Brother Cadfael's care).
And indeed, it is the differences in ESPECIALLY Hugh Beringar's character in the BBC mini-series adaptation of Saint Peter's Fair from Ellis Peters' printed words, from her actual text that have made me stop watching the series in both anger and frustration. For in the BBC production of Saint Peter's Fair, especially Hugh Beringar, he is shown like a total little dictator in many ways, not only completely pro King Stephen but as also generally decidedly unfriendly towards Brother Cadfael (and even rather too often accusing him of interfering and of not being loyal enough) and certainly downright cruelly nasty towards Emma Jerold (all because he feels as though she has not told everything she knows). And in fact and in my opinion, the BBC adaptation of Saint Peter's Fair basically takes almost everything humane and likeable out of Hugh Beringar and renders him into just a goose-stepping political functionary, a for the most part one-sided individual, not at all like the actual Hugh Beringar of Ellis Peters' Cadfael novels but in fact rather appearing like how in the Brother Cadfael series, Gilbert Prescote, the Sheriff for Shropshire and Hugh's boss so to speak is usually presented (and considering that I have always found Gilbert Prescott an interestingly rendered but personally unattractive and extremely unlikable character, I do find it rather personally offensive that the BBC dramatization of Saint Peter's Fair basically has turned one of my absolutely favourite characters of the Cadefael novels into another, how in the BBC series instalment of Saint Peter's Fair, Ellis Peters' sweet-natured, justice-oriented and personally likeable Hugh Beringar basically has ended up morphing into a Gilbert Prescote like stereotypical and as such also very much boring and tedious authority figure).
But aside from my very minor quips regarding more than one body, more than one murder in Saint Peter's Fair, this is probably one of my favourites of the earlier Brother Cadfael novels. For yes indeed, aside from the realistic portrait of 12th century Mediaeval England (and a typical church-run and organised fair) which Ellis Peters delightfully and descriptively paints (not to mention the historical details on the Civil War between King Stephen and the Empress Maud), I also and totally absolutely do adore both Brother Cadfael and Hugh Beringar as characters and how Ellis Peters shows in Saint Peter's Fair the every strengthening bond of friendship and comradeship between the two of them and yes, how first and foremost Hugh Beringar is for justice, law and order but also does not really ever impose his being King Stephen's man on everyone and therefore does not for example even expect Brother Cadfael to choose sides in the conflict between Stephen and Maud. And even though Hugh Beringar quickly realises that Emma Verold knows more about why her uncle Thomas might have been murdered and that it has likely something to do with the civil war, with clandestine messages and subterfuge, Hugh never is anything but both civil and even affectionate towards her, he does not put Emma in distress (and after her being rescued from Ivo Corbiere's clutches by Philip, Hugh backs off, leaves Emma alone and top Brother Cadfael's care).
And indeed, it is the differences in ESPECIALLY Hugh Beringar's character in the BBC mini-series adaptation of Saint Peter's Fair from Ellis Peters' printed words, from her actual text that have made me stop watching the series in both anger and frustration. For in the BBC production of Saint Peter's Fair, especially Hugh Beringar, he is shown like a total little dictator in many ways, not only completely pro King Stephen but as also generally decidedly unfriendly towards Brother Cadfael (and even rather too often accusing him of interfering and of not being loyal enough) and certainly downright cruelly nasty towards Emma Jerold (all because he feels as though she has not told everything she knows). And in fact and in my opinion, the BBC adaptation of Saint Peter's Fair basically takes almost everything humane and likeable out of Hugh Beringar and renders him into just a goose-stepping political functionary, a for the most part one-sided individual, not at all like the actual Hugh Beringar of Ellis Peters' Cadfael novels but in fact rather appearing like how in the Brother Cadfael series, Gilbert Prescote, the Sheriff for Shropshire and Hugh's boss so to speak is usually presented (and considering that I have always found Gilbert Prescott an interestingly rendered but personally unattractive and extremely unlikable character, I do find it rather personally offensive that the BBC dramatization of Saint Peter's Fair basically has turned one of my absolutely favourite characters of the Cadefael novels into another, how in the BBC series instalment of Saint Peter's Fair, Ellis Peters' sweet-natured, justice-oriented and personally likeable Hugh Beringar basically has ended up morphing into a Gilbert Prescote like stereotypical and as such also very much boring and tedious authority figure).
November 24, 2017
What a pleasure it is to find a character and a series that I consistently enjoy. Four books into the Chronicles of Brother Cadfael, and I am well and truly hooked. So I am well pleased to see that I still have 16 books ahead of me. The trick will be not to read them too quickly!
Brother Cadfael is a wonderful medieval sleuth—he’s participated in the Crusades, he’s had love affairs, he’s a man of the world, but he has chosen “retirement” in Shrewsbury Abbey. I think his philosophy would be that God helps those who help themselves, although in this installment he receives one of his greatest breakthroughs by withdrawing to the chapel to pray. Abbey politics also feature in these books and Cadfael is getting used to a new leader (and they seem to see eye to eye).
People are people, regardless of time period. Young people are going to have strong opinions, occasionally drink too much and embarrass themselves, fall in love, and generally do the things that young people do. Including getting implicated in crimes. Cadfael is wonderfully non-judgmental for a monk and full of quiet wisdom. A person who notices small details and can put them together quickly & accurately, he is an excellent forensic investigator before such a thing was considered.
A joy to read this comfortable, entertaining series.
Brother Cadfael is a wonderful medieval sleuth—he’s participated in the Crusades, he’s had love affairs, he’s a man of the world, but he has chosen “retirement” in Shrewsbury Abbey. I think his philosophy would be that God helps those who help themselves, although in this installment he receives one of his greatest breakthroughs by withdrawing to the chapel to pray. Abbey politics also feature in these books and Cadfael is getting used to a new leader (and they seem to see eye to eye).
People are people, regardless of time period. Young people are going to have strong opinions, occasionally drink too much and embarrass themselves, fall in love, and generally do the things that young people do. Including getting implicated in crimes. Cadfael is wonderfully non-judgmental for a monk and full of quiet wisdom. A person who notices small details and can put them together quickly & accurately, he is an excellent forensic investigator before such a thing was considered.
A joy to read this comfortable, entertaining series.
July 26, 2021
I think it’s high time I had a break: too many damsels in distress and noble young men ready to come to rescue. The series is super cosy but one should know their limits of cuteness. I’ll save the remaining ones for the rainy day.
March 1, 2023
The audiobook I borrowed of this early Cadfael mystery was read by Derek Jacobi - a Perfect choice.
I’m not confident that I’ve chosen the right edition from the list on Goodreads.
I’m not confident that I’ve chosen the right edition from the list on Goodreads.
June 27, 2025
"Brother Cadfael had been out before prime in his enclosed herb garden, observing with approval the blooming of his oriental poppies, and assessing the time when the seed would be due for gathering." 💚
🌸🌿🎚🌿🌸
the fourth novel in the Brother Cadfael series 🙂
my enjoyment of this novel (and consequently my review) was sadly marred by the narration. it made it harder to follow, awa less enjoyable - the reader generally seeming to pause every 3 or 4 words, instead of in line with the punctuation in the novel (with a few exceptions), and there often not being much distinction between the narrative and dialogue 😕
🌸🌿🎚🌿🌸
I think it was quite an interesting novel wrt the politics and conflicts - on a local scale between town and Church/Abbey, and on a larger national scale affecting monarchy and power.
and a woman with a secret and alot of forbearance 🙂
🌟 🌟 🌟
accessed as an RNIB talking book, stiltedly read by Robert Gladwell 😕
🌸🌿🎚🌿🌸
the fourth novel in the Brother Cadfael series 🙂
my enjoyment of this novel (and consequently my review) was sadly marred by the narration. it made it harder to follow, awa less enjoyable - the reader generally seeming to pause every 3 or 4 words, instead of in line with the punctuation in the novel (with a few exceptions), and there often not being much distinction between the narrative and dialogue 😕
🌸🌿🎚🌿🌸
I think it was quite an interesting novel wrt the politics and conflicts - on a local scale between town and Church/Abbey, and on a larger national scale affecting monarchy and power.
and a woman with a secret and alot of forbearance 🙂
🌟 🌟 🌟
accessed as an RNIB talking book, stiltedly read by Robert Gladwell 😕
May 9, 2021
I liked this a lot even though, as usual, it was easy to peg the villain from the moment he showed up. However, the complexity of the reason for the murders, the mysterious behavior of Emma, and her two potential suitors all made the story well worth listening to. I am finding these to be really good light mysteries.
August 13, 2024
(Fourth reading Aug 2024)
“The manifold gifts of God are those to be delighted in, to fall short of joy would be ingratitude.”
Better with each reading. I discovered Cadfael twenty years ago. I have read each book at least twice since as well as watched all thirteen ITV episodes. Though they have some merit, the latter turned the originals inside out.
“It’s no blame to men if they try to put into their own artifacts all the colors and shapes God put into his.”
Saint Peter's Fair is a murder mystery, but it is also an immersion in medieval culture and history, a reflection on the world and man’s place in it, and a romance. Peters weaves all her threads into a fascinating tapestry simultaneously fun and informative.
“Penitence is in the heart, not in the word spoken.”
Earlier readings left me with the impression that Cadfael was a twentieth century man in monk’s robes, but he is thoroughly a reflection of his time, though he rises above the stereotypes.
“What you see is only a broken part of a perfect whole.”
A good story, well told. Mystery Theater (PBS) got this one pretty close to right.
Cadfael series: excellent historical fiction. Ellis Peters draws the reader into the twelfth century with modern story telling but holds us there with a richness of detail which evokes a time and place which might as well be mythic. Though the foreground of each chronicle is a murder mystery, behind it a nation and a culture are woven in a wondrous tapestry.
“The manifold gifts of God are those to be delighted in, to fall short of joy would be ingratitude.”
Better with each reading. I discovered Cadfael twenty years ago. I have read each book at least twice since as well as watched all thirteen ITV episodes. Though they have some merit, the latter turned the originals inside out.
“It’s no blame to men if they try to put into their own artifacts all the colors and shapes God put into his.”
Saint Peter's Fair is a murder mystery, but it is also an immersion in medieval culture and history, a reflection on the world and man’s place in it, and a romance. Peters weaves all her threads into a fascinating tapestry simultaneously fun and informative.
“Penitence is in the heart, not in the word spoken.”
Earlier readings left me with the impression that Cadfael was a twentieth century man in monk’s robes, but he is thoroughly a reflection of his time, though he rises above the stereotypes.
“What you see is only a broken part of a perfect whole.”
A good story, well told. Mystery Theater (PBS) got this one pretty close to right.
Cadfael series: excellent historical fiction. Ellis Peters draws the reader into the twelfth century with modern story telling but holds us there with a richness of detail which evokes a time and place which might as well be mythic. Though the foreground of each chronicle is a murder mystery, behind it a nation and a culture are woven in a wondrous tapestry.
Read
September 21, 2017Možda bi trebalo da napravim Gudrids policu pod nazivom "za kišne dane uz ćebence i keks" i na nju poređam sve romane o bratu Kadfaelu kao 100% pouzdan lek protiv jesenjeg neraspoloženja. Dobro, i predvidljiv, ali u tome i jeste deo draži.
February 18, 2016
By way of full-disclosure, I have read most or all of Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael novels when they were first available. But that was long ago and far away in my memory. I picked up this one by chance and reading it was an opportunity to again explore a period of turmoil in English history when the land had not been long conquered by the Normans and royal succession was being fought-over by King Stephen and Empress Matilda. This, to my mind, is one of the best of the series.
Ellis Peters, a pen-name, created Brother Cadfael, who after a life as a Crusader, has retired to a Benedictine abbey adjacent to Shrewsbury, a significant town on the Welsh border. Not only was the country in civil war, but the borders of England were in frequent turmoil from both the Scots and the Welsh.
Peters enjoys exploring the moral and religious dilemmas posed by events in and around the abbey. In this story, there is a lull in the conflicts and the Benedictines are able to conduct their annual trade fair from which they derive much of the revenue to support the abbey and its functions. The town was in the year previous severely damaged by the war and a number its citizens lost their lives. The town fathers wish that the abbey share a portion of its revenue to help with those repairs. The abbot has heard their plea and refused based on a previously negotiated agreement with Shrewsbury.
As the fair begins, there is the death of a prominent merchant from Bristol. As the fair proceeds, there are other deaths. Is there a connection among them? Who will be the next? What should be the responsibilities of citizens, sheriff, monks, abbot, merchants and visitors? All of this is fit for exploration.
If I recall other Cadfael novels correctly, this is one of the minority that does not involve much in the way of internal abbey procedures and politics. The new abbot gives Cadfael responsibility for protecting the abbey’s reputation by making inquiries into the death of the merchant and keeping him informed. This gives him freedom to wander beyond the walls of the abbey while taking time, when possible, to keep his personal responsibilities as the abbey’s chief herbalist. Since this isn’t the first of these chronological tales, those who are reading them in order will find familiar characters including monks, merchants and the assistant sheriff, Hugh Beringar, and his wife Aline.
The plot is intricate and the sins are frequent and subtle. Though it is possible to guess the villain early, the “why” and the extent of villainy plays out only in the latter part of the book.
There is young love and mature love on display. We see most things through Cadfael’s well-honed eyes. As an investigator he applies his knowledge of life and relationships as much as his ability to spot physical clues. We also learn a bit more about his time as a crusader and his “home town” in Wales.
I am interested in the history of this period, so I am impressed at how well Peters integrates this with her story. Plot elements dovetail and she brings history down to its effects on the common man and the remote town. Having read, appreciated and reviewed Mortimer’s The Time Travelers Guide to Medieval England, I am further impressed with the details that Peters includes and makes part of an enriched story. She gives a real “feel” to the place and time.
Ellis Peters, a pen-name, created Brother Cadfael, who after a life as a Crusader, has retired to a Benedictine abbey adjacent to Shrewsbury, a significant town on the Welsh border. Not only was the country in civil war, but the borders of England were in frequent turmoil from both the Scots and the Welsh.
Peters enjoys exploring the moral and religious dilemmas posed by events in and around the abbey. In this story, there is a lull in the conflicts and the Benedictines are able to conduct their annual trade fair from which they derive much of the revenue to support the abbey and its functions. The town was in the year previous severely damaged by the war and a number its citizens lost their lives. The town fathers wish that the abbey share a portion of its revenue to help with those repairs. The abbot has heard their plea and refused based on a previously negotiated agreement with Shrewsbury.
As the fair begins, there is the death of a prominent merchant from Bristol. As the fair proceeds, there are other deaths. Is there a connection among them? Who will be the next? What should be the responsibilities of citizens, sheriff, monks, abbot, merchants and visitors? All of this is fit for exploration.
If I recall other Cadfael novels correctly, this is one of the minority that does not involve much in the way of internal abbey procedures and politics. The new abbot gives Cadfael responsibility for protecting the abbey’s reputation by making inquiries into the death of the merchant and keeping him informed. This gives him freedom to wander beyond the walls of the abbey while taking time, when possible, to keep his personal responsibilities as the abbey’s chief herbalist. Since this isn’t the first of these chronological tales, those who are reading them in order will find familiar characters including monks, merchants and the assistant sheriff, Hugh Beringar, and his wife Aline.
The plot is intricate and the sins are frequent and subtle. Though it is possible to guess the villain early, the “why” and the extent of villainy plays out only in the latter part of the book.
There is young love and mature love on display. We see most things through Cadfael’s well-honed eyes. As an investigator he applies his knowledge of life and relationships as much as his ability to spot physical clues. We also learn a bit more about his time as a crusader and his “home town” in Wales.
I am interested in the history of this period, so I am impressed at how well Peters integrates this with her story. Plot elements dovetail and she brings history down to its effects on the common man and the remote town. Having read, appreciated and reviewed Mortimer’s The Time Travelers Guide to Medieval England, I am further impressed with the details that Peters includes and makes part of an enriched story. She gives a real “feel” to the place and time.
June 11, 2020
This, fourth, book in the Brother Cadfael series, takes place around the Abbey and the town of Shrewsbury. For three days, the Abbey holds St Peter's Fair, where wealthy merchants gather and people come from far and wide to buy goods. However, the local townspeople are displeased and a row brews between them and the Abbey, when they ask for a proportion of the fair tolls to be given to the town to restore the walls after recent outbreaks of war - seen in earlier books, when the town was besieged. As such, we get to meet the new Abbot - who put Prior Robert's nose out of joint, after he was not given the post.
With resentment building in the town, the fair goes ahead. Then, a wealthy merchant is found killed and it is, of course, up to Cadfael to unravel the mystery. I like the characters in these books, but find the romance, which seems to crop up in every book, rather obvious. These are probably best read spaced out, but they are comforting mysteries and the historical background is interesting.
With resentment building in the town, the fair goes ahead. Then, a wealthy merchant is found killed and it is, of course, up to Cadfael to unravel the mystery. I like the characters in these books, but find the romance, which seems to crop up in every book, rather obvious. These are probably best read spaced out, but they are comforting mysteries and the historical background is interesting.
April 12, 2017
Dašak srednjovjekovne političke intrige, dašak romantike i rješenje niza ubojstava. sasvim dobro!
March 19, 2016
It's always a treat to spend time with Brother Cadfael and the monks of Shrewsbury Abbey. I have the entire series now and plan to go through it... slowly.
October 13, 2021
Тут прямо Midsomer murders начался: сразу три убийства, предательство, интриги, вот это всё.
January 16, 2020
These are starting to grow on me. I read my first Cadfael, oh, I guess it was ten or so years ago. I wasn't all that into it. Not that it was terrible, I just wasn't thrilled by it. Since then I've gotten more into mysteries, so I figured I'd give Peters' stuff another go. I tried the hermit one about a year ago with better results. This third attempt was the best so far. I don't know that the quality of the books differed one from the other or if my opinion of them has improved because they're starting to take on that ol' familiar comfort read. I suspect the latter. I'm settling into the settings and getting to know the recurring characters. All the reasons why a series is preferred by many readers over stand-alones is coloring my perception in a most pleasing way! Huzzah! Huzzah, I say!!!
January 16, 2024
I liked this one a lot.
June 4, 2025
Another great installment in the Cadfael series. I'm really enjoying these mysteries and the time I get to spend enjoying England of that era (without the aromas).
This book like the earlier ones is richer, more complex and more enjoyable than the television series that was based on them. This is particularly the case in this story as the screenwriter took considerable liberties with the original story, mostly for the worse.
In the book Cadfael and Berringer are fast friends, Brother Mark is here instead of Oswin and we get to see Aline again, now as Hugh's wife and expecting their first child. Even the scamp from Monk's Hood makes a cameo appearance. I'm not sure why the screenwriter felt the need to create all the tension between Hugh and Cadfael in the television adaptation. The two work much better as friends. I can see eliminating many aspects of this book's romance in order to fit the allotted time; but Emma, the wine merchant's niece, was kind of gutted for TV consumption. She's a much more likeable and winning (and believable) character in the book.
Again, I'm not much of a die-hard mystery buff but I enjoy these as they give me an opportunity to spend time in that era.
My 2024 re-read was via the audiobook narrated by Patrick Tull. He does a great job.
This book like the earlier ones is richer, more complex and more enjoyable than the television series that was based on them. This is particularly the case in this story as the screenwriter took considerable liberties with the original story, mostly for the worse.
In the book Cadfael and Berringer are fast friends, Brother Mark is here instead of Oswin and we get to see Aline again, now as Hugh's wife and expecting their first child. Even the scamp from Monk's Hood makes a cameo appearance. I'm not sure why the screenwriter felt the need to create all the tension between Hugh and Cadfael in the television adaptation. The two work much better as friends. I can see eliminating many aspects of this book's romance in order to fit the allotted time; but Emma, the wine merchant's niece, was kind of gutted for TV consumption. She's a much more likeable and winning (and believable) character in the book.
Again, I'm not much of a die-hard mystery buff but I enjoy these as they give me an opportunity to spend time in that era.
My 2024 re-read was via the audiobook narrated by Patrick Tull. He does a great job.
October 28, 2023
It’s time for the abbey Fair, which is extra interesting to me now that I have more experience with the modern versions. They’re remarkably similar.
Our young lovers are extra interesting this time - a young woman whose murdered merchant uncle entrusted her with a secret to pass along though we are uncertain what it is; one young man who is feisty that the Abbey won’t share the rents from the Fair, another wealthy man whose interest in the young woman is unusual but pleasing to the woman and to Aline, Hugh’s wife.
The mystery takes us through several parts of Shrewsbury letting us peek into Medieval life outside of the Abbey.
I may not have read this one before, even as a kid, since the ending seemed unfamiliar. I really love that the books stand alone but if read in order you get so much more of their place in history. The burghers of the town seeking to share in the fair rents after the devastation they suffered this year in the war references _A Corpse Too Many_ and also adds shape to the setting.
Our young lovers are extra interesting this time - a young woman whose murdered merchant uncle entrusted her with a secret to pass along though we are uncertain what it is; one young man who is feisty that the Abbey won’t share the rents from the Fair, another wealthy man whose interest in the young woman is unusual but pleasing to the woman and to Aline, Hugh’s wife.
The mystery takes us through several parts of Shrewsbury letting us peek into Medieval life outside of the Abbey.
I may not have read this one before, even as a kid, since the ending seemed unfamiliar. I really love that the books stand alone but if read in order you get so much more of their place in history. The burghers of the town seeking to share in the fair rents after the devastation they suffered this year in the war references _A Corpse Too Many_ and also adds shape to the setting.
June 23, 2020
I think there is definitely a right time to read or reread books - my last read of this Brother Cadfael mystery was less than satisfying, I found it too wordy and drawn out.
This time, I enjoyed it much more - I was in the mood for a visit to Shrewsbury, and indeed, from the opening paragraphs, as Cadfael contemplates the sunny, scented summer garden, and the building excitement of the summer fair, I was all in! I reread for one of the Reading the Detectives group’s June buddy reads, but this was a perfect early summer pandemic read for me! Very enjoyable, with the usual wonderful characters, authentically researched setting, and an exciting ending. I loved this series when I first read it decades ago, and find myself enjoying Cadfael’s humanity, decency, warmth and humor even more as I reread at this age, much closer to Cadfael’s sixty years!
This time, I enjoyed it much more - I was in the mood for a visit to Shrewsbury, and indeed, from the opening paragraphs, as Cadfael contemplates the sunny, scented summer garden, and the building excitement of the summer fair, I was all in! I reread for one of the Reading the Detectives group’s June buddy reads, but this was a perfect early summer pandemic read for me! Very enjoyable, with the usual wonderful characters, authentically researched setting, and an exciting ending. I loved this series when I first read it decades ago, and find myself enjoying Cadfael’s humanity, decency, warmth and humor even more as I reread at this age, much closer to Cadfael’s sixty years!
January 18, 2021
This book have with two other books of this series been sitting on my shelf for years. I thought it was the first three books but turns out it was 1, 4 and 9. Anywho I enjoyed this cozy mystery set in medieval times a lot, the characters are great, with a lot of interesting characteristics to go a long with them and the mystery is compelling and interesting to follow. Hope I can find more books of this series in second hand soon!
December 23, 2017
This is one of the best. July-August 1139. Just before Empress Maud returns to England to wage civil war against King Stephen's supporters.
January 12, 2024
The little blurb tells you nothing at all, which isn't bad, but even I who hate spoilers, don't think it's a spoiler to tell you this. Prior to the fair, a delegation of local merchants, who are forbidden by an old charter to sell wares during the time of this annual fair so that the Abbey can earn some money from vendors, and request ten percent of what the Abbey makes on top of the amount they usually get to help repair the city walls which were damaged during the war the prior year. When they are told they cannot break the charter, the son of the speaker later asks the incoming merchants to help. A fracas ensues, and the next day one of the merchants is found dead by murder.
Once again Ellis has a strong young woman "guest" character, and this one is one of my favourites.
This is my second time reading this, but my review didn't make it from Shelfari here or to LibraryThing so whatever I wrote is a mystery or perhaps somewhere on my old PC.
Once again Ellis has a strong young woman "guest" character, and this one is one of my favourites.
This is my second time reading this, but my review didn't make it from Shelfari here or to LibraryThing so whatever I wrote is a mystery or perhaps somewhere on my old PC.
February 22, 2022
This novel, the fourth in the Cadfael series, involves the solving of two murders that occur during the holding of the St, Peter’s Fair in Shrewsbury. As this volume received a few 3-star reviews from my GR friends who usually give Cadfaels 4 stars. I was expecting a story ranking at the lower end of the Cadfaels I had read.
Instead, I found this story to be one of the more enjoyable of the 5 Cadfaels I have read, for the following reasons:
1. The usual conventions of this series are present but still seem freshly portrayed; the personalities of the participants in this version of the always present love story are engaging and the Cadfael/Hugh partnership is effective;
2. The political battle between King Stephen and Maud plays a part and, as another reviewer mentioned, it is interesting when this series portrays how this political rivalry affects the common people;
3. The local political dispute between the Abbey and the townspeople relating to certain Fair proceeds makes for an interesting interaction; I enjoy exploring the relations of the monks and non-church residents.
Instead, I found this story to be one of the more enjoyable of the 5 Cadfaels I have read, for the following reasons:
1. The usual conventions of this series are present but still seem freshly portrayed; the personalities of the participants in this version of the always present love story are engaging and the Cadfael/Hugh partnership is effective;
2. The political battle between King Stephen and Maud plays a part and, as another reviewer mentioned, it is interesting when this series portrays how this political rivalry affects the common people;
3. The local political dispute between the Abbey and the townspeople relating to certain Fair proceeds makes for an interesting interaction; I enjoy exploring the relations of the monks and non-church residents.
August 14, 2022
Every year, the Abbey has a fair during the festival of Saint Peter ad Vincula (or, Saint Peter in chains, if your Latin is rusty, commemorating the events from Acts 12). Merchants, traders, and artisans come from all over England and even the Continent to sell their goods. One such is Thomas, from Bristol, who comes with his orphaned niece, Emma, and some of his men.
There is some discord between the Abbey and the town: the town sustained much damage during the siege by King Stephen, and the town needs funds to repair the walls and streets. They ask the Abbey to alter the charter that assigns them all the rents and tolls, but Abbot Radulfus refuses, saying he has no authority to change their charter.
When Emma’s father is found murdered in the Severn, it’s assumed it was a result of this dispute, but Cadfael and deputy sheriff Hugh Beringar, don’t agree. And they are proved correct when Thomas’s booth is robbed and another trader is killed. It’s obvious someone is searching for a valuable treasure that Thomas carried to the fair. Cadfael is certain Emma herself is in danger and ultimately, the danger comes from an unexpected source.
Another enjoyable mystery and a fascinating medieval setting.
There is some discord between the Abbey and the town: the town sustained much damage during the siege by King Stephen, and the town needs funds to repair the walls and streets. They ask the Abbey to alter the charter that assigns them all the rents and tolls, but Abbot Radulfus refuses, saying he has no authority to change their charter.
When Emma’s father is found murdered in the Severn, it’s assumed it was a result of this dispute, but Cadfael and deputy sheriff Hugh Beringar, don’t agree. And they are proved correct when Thomas’s booth is robbed and another trader is killed. It’s obvious someone is searching for a valuable treasure that Thomas carried to the fair. Cadfael is certain Emma herself is in danger and ultimately, the danger comes from an unexpected source.
Another enjoyable mystery and a fascinating medieval setting.
June 7, 2018
3.5 stars - I originally read the Brother Cadfael mysteries during college breaks, and enjoyed them so much that historical mysteries became my favorite genre. I’ve forgotten most of the plots in the subsequent 30+ years, and decided I was due for a reread!
I struggled to get into this one, probably because I just finished a great Georgette Heyer book and couldn’t switch gears...also, the last third of the book, well really, the last quarter or so, picked up the pace considerably and the ending was quite a corker! No spoilers, but even though I began to suspect the villain, the ending was very satisfying and he got his comeuppance, delivered at the hands of one of Peters’ wonderful young female characters. A very satisfying mystery, overshadowed by the ongoing conflict between Empress Maud and King Stephen for the throne of England. Once again, I am reminded that I still haven’t read my used copy of Penman’s “When Christ and His Saints Slept”, to get the full story on this conflict! Definitely this summer...so many books! (Yay!)
I struggled to get into this one, probably because I just finished a great Georgette Heyer book and couldn’t switch gears...also, the last third of the book, well really, the last quarter or so, picked up the pace considerably and the ending was quite a corker! No spoilers, but even though I began to suspect the villain, the ending was very satisfying and he got his comeuppance, delivered at the hands of one of Peters’ wonderful young female characters. A very satisfying mystery, overshadowed by the ongoing conflict between Empress Maud and King Stephen for the throne of England. Once again, I am reminded that I still haven’t read my used copy of Penman’s “When Christ and His Saints Slept”, to get the full story on this conflict! Definitely this summer...so many books! (Yay!)
June 11, 2019
I had the same problem with this book as with many Heyer's mysteries: the author's attitude to each character was so obvious from the outset that I spotted the main villain even before he had the time to commit his crimes.
I like the mentality our protagonist and other positive characters have (and almost all characters, with the exception of the villains, are positive). Cadfael's Christianity is endearing, fully compatible with common sense and very forgiving. The attitude they all have to women is great - but I have a hard time believing it fits into the period... not that I want to read about women being degraded, but every character who speaks on these pages, always with the exception of the villains, fully recognizes that women are as good as men in intelligence, willpower, and any other capability. Doesn't sound medieval to me, and even while it makes for uplifting reading experience I harbour my doubts.
I like the mentality our protagonist and other positive characters have (and almost all characters, with the exception of the villains, are positive). Cadfael's Christianity is endearing, fully compatible with common sense and very forgiving. The attitude they all have to women is great - but I have a hard time believing it fits into the period... not that I want to read about women being degraded, but every character who speaks on these pages, always with the exception of the villains, fully recognizes that women are as good as men in intelligence, willpower, and any other capability. Doesn't sound medieval to me, and even while it makes for uplifting reading experience I harbour my doubts.
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