The Sanctuary Sparrow [Mass Market Paperback]

In this particular case, the mystery is no greatly complex affair but it is, in any case, largely subsidiary to Ellis Peters' painting of a finely detailed picture of life in twelfth century England, and more especially here, within a moderately wealthy family household. There are some unexpected twists and developments along the way, though, and there is certainly nothing predictable about the way the story works itself out, although the ending is no particular surprise either.

In some respects, this is one of the best of the Cadfael books. Its opening pages contain some of Ellis Peters' finest writing, with her descriptions of the running to ground of young Liliwin and the reactions of Abbot Radulfus being quite hair-raising in their potency. The tale unfolds at a sure and steady pace thereafter, too, ensuring that it is always difficult to put the book down, right up until the final exciting, and rather tear-jerking, denouement.

That's the premise of this murder mystery by famed author Ellis Peters. In Brother Cadfael she has a perfect vehicle for not only exploring the conventional mystery novel but drawing the reader into another bygone age. Indeed, it could be said that the mystery element is of second importance in this aspect, as it is in her other novels. However, this is not to say it is weak-far from it-just that you learn so much about ancient Britain and the workings of religious orders that the mystery (almost), becomes secondary.

This interesting combination is why this novel works so well. Peters paints a totally believable picture of a world we only normally know through dry history books. In the Sanctuary Sparrow, the characters come alive and hold our interest throughout. I found their motives and actions quite believable and was fascinated by the background information. A medieval Sherlock Holmes, Cadfael uses his knowledge of plants and herbs and the workings of human nature to get to the bottom of things. In the process we are treated to a tightly written story that never drags and is very enjoyable. Perhaps the ending is not totally unexpected but this does not detract from the book's undeniable quality.

Another pleasing element in Peters work is the sub plots and ongoing continuity. She never forgets Cadfael is part of a series and we have Bennedictine internal politics to chew on, as well as the uncertain future of the throne to keep us diverted. Obviously a lot of research was required to achieve this and it shows in the picture that Peters draws.

This is the large print version of this book and it is good to see an accomplished writer like Peters being made available in this format.