A Morbid Taste For Bones
A Morbid Taste For Bones
Book Brief
272
Novel • Fiction
Shropshire, England • 1130s
1977
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
In A Morbid Taste For Bones by Ellis Peters, Prior Robert of Shrewsbury Abbey resolves to acquire a saint's relics, selecting Saint Winifred’s remains in Wales. Brother Cadfael, working in his herb garden, joins the trip. Local opposition leads to the death of Rhisiart, a key landowner. Through investigation, Brother Cadfael exposes the true killer, and the saint's remains are successfully moved.
Note: The novel includes themes of death and violence.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
47,554 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ellis Peters' A Morbid Taste For Bones is praised for its engaging historical setting and well-drawn characters, particularly the protagonist, Brother Cadfael. Reviewers appreciate its intricate plot and atmospheric detail. However, some criticize the pacing, finding it slow at times. Overall, it’s regarded as a compelling start to the Chronicles of Brother Cadfael series.
Who Should Read A Morbid Taste For Bones?
A reader who enjoys A Morbid Taste For Bones by Ellis Peters would likely appreciate historical mysteries with rich, medieval settings. Fans of Umberto Eco's The Name of the Rose or C.J. Sansom's Dissolution will be captivated by its intricate plot and the contemplative Benedictine monk-detective, Brother Cadfael.
47,554 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
A Morbid Taste for Bones is the first novel in the Brother Cadfael series by Ellis Peters, introducing the 12th-century Welsh monk whose amateur sleuthing forms the core of the series.
The book is credited with popularizing the historical mystery genre, combining meticulous historical detail with engaging whodunits.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
Ellis Peters, a pseudonym for author Edith Pargeter, was well-versed in medieval history, which lent authenticity to the setting and characters of the Brother Cadfael mysteries.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
272
Novel • Fiction
Shropshire, England • 1130s
1977
Adult
14+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!