An Excellent Mystery

By: Ellis Peters

Narrated by: Patrick Tull

A mysterious pair of monks, whose abbey has burned down, have come to Shrewbury seeking refuge. Their story is tragic, and Cadfael quickly senses, riddled with half-truths. What dark secret are these strange monks hiding?©1985 Ellis Peters (P)1994 Recorded Books, LLC

Fun, Fun

How can a lover of cozy mysteries not love Brother Cadfael? In this installment of his life in Shrewsbury, he has been 'favored' with the relocation of a famous, although aged and ill, crusader to his abbey. Of course not all is as it appears and Cadfael is soon deep into the mysteries of the Brother's past. So much fun!

Stained glass illustrations belong on Tull’s readings

Patrick Tull renders the Best most accurate narration of all versions of the Cadfael series.

Yes, A Very Excellent Mystery Indeed!

Would you listen to An Excellent Mystery again? Why?

I really liked this story and performance. I probably will listen again at a later date.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

I Knew early on who Brother Fidelis really was, and one faithful to their master. The silence was another clue.However, clever writing had me hooked and somewhat concerned that I might have been mistaken. Truly loved the ending and the quote from the Book of Common Prayer.

What does Patrick Tull bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

His booming but pleasant Welsh tongue.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, and I almost did. Three sittings was a record for me.

Any additional comments?

Ellis Peters does not get stale in this series, as some often do. While the events are closely linked in time and history she always has uniquely different plots. Incredible!

My Favorite Brother Cadfael book

All the Brother Cadfael books are marvelously written and This one is as well. Most of these books have love stories woven into history and Abby life but this one has the most beautiful and chaste rendering of sacrificial love I have ever read/ listened to. Patrick Tulls rich reading voice increases the experience.

This is my “go to”

All I can say is that I find goodness and peace in the Cadfael mysteries. Consistently Ellis Peters delivers gifts to my soul.