The usual formula, but always a delight. I am nearing the end of this series...sadly. ( )

Solid detective work by Cadfael and a truly dramatic climax, with a maguffin worthy of the fuss. ( )

As i read these I want to be able to be transported away to the period and feel the depth and richness that it has to offer. Here Peters has done so. We get from the Heretic's Apprentice a great deal of the church, both it's politics and workings and the philosophy that was prevalent at the time.

The mystery of course is paramount and the outcome, a happy ending is clear as Peters seems to unite some couple in love in each of these stories, but what is not clear as has been so these last few books is the culprit. Not only do we find a story that takes a complex turn as it delves into heresy, a very real proposition of the time, but we find a mystery having a complex twist to it also.

This twist is the redemption of so many of the previous adventures. Though there is no herbology involved, Cadfael the investigator, the man who is always near the center to momentous events once again helps solve the mystery and brings about our happy ending. Here is a mystery worthwhile. ( )

Elave arrives back in Shrewsbury with his dead master's body and a box containing a dowry for his master's foster daughter to find himself accused of heresy and murder.

This was a very atmospheric tale, with some exciting moments as the story unfolded. This being Cadfael, we know that young love will triumph, but it also affirms that books and beliefs are important. ( )

I’m trying to speed my through to the end of my guilty pleasure, the Brother Cadfael series. This story is interesting in that it addresses the concepts of Christian belief and how the official dogma of the church could be challenged by a thoughtful believer. It does this amidst the context of the usual Cadfael memes of young love and far too much murder and misery for one medieval family in the shire to have to face. Still it was enjoyable read and among the better of the series. ( )