Nancy S. (njsscribbles) reviewed on 2/21/2012

"One Corpse Too Many" is Ellis Peters' second Brother Cadfael mystery, and as such, brings a freshness to some of the tropes that will become staples of her later mysteries: the fresh-faced young lovers separated by the politics of the times, Brother Cadfael's worldly view of life outside the cloister, and the sanctuary within a sactuary that his herbarium provides in tumultuous times.

This particular mystery is notable because King Stephen is present in Salisbury in person and orders a nasty revenge carried out on his opponents, one that brings the brutality of 12th C. warfare to Peters' usually idyllic setting.

On a happier note, Hugh Beringer is introduced in this novel, setting up a happy relationship that will play out in future volumes. The result is one of Peters' best efforts.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details