The Hermit of Eyton Forest

March 1, 1988
Brother Cadfael, the 11th century Benedictine monk who functions admirably as healer, matchmaker and sleuth, marshals his considerable talents to solve two murders in this well-plotted but somewhat slick mystery. Ten-year-old Richard Ludel, a bright and independent student entrusted to the abbey's care by his father, has just inherited a large estate upon his father's death. His formidable grandmother, Dame Dionisia, insists that the unwilling boy be returned home and marry the heiress to the adjoining property. Two mysterious tenants on Dame Dionisia's land, a devout hermit, Cuthred, and his young aid, Hyacinth, are in league wtih the domineering dowager, who is unaware that Hyacinth is actually a runaway villein and that Cuthred's background is particularly heinous. When Richard disappears from the abbey, Dame Dionisia is immediately suspect. Other ominous events follow rapidly: an inquisitive nobleman is murdered in the forest; Hyacinth vanishes; and Cuthred is stabbed to death. Brother Cadfael must summon all his talents to solve the crimes, simultaneously playing matchmaker, doctor and high political games. Unfortunately, most of the characters are glibly superficial: lovers are fair and pure; villains cruel and swarthy. In his 14th appearance, however, Brother Cadfael remains as shrewd and unpredictable as ever.

For those of us who are used to Brother Cadfael read by Stephen Thorne and liking it that way, I can only say: Give this narrator a chance--you won't regret it. Roe Kendall brings a different depth to Brother Cadfael, a more measured tread, and a more considered rhythm. The year is 1142, and England is caught up in a civil war as two factions battle for the Crown, and turmoil eventually spills over into quiet and happy Shrewsbury. When people begin to die shortly after the appearance of a strange holy man, the Hermit Cuthred, Cadfael must work fast to keep his quiet hamlet safe. Ellis Peters does her usual neat job of history-cum-entertainment, and Roe Kendall does an equally neat job of delivery. Her take on Hugh, the sheriff, is a new one as well, and overall her presentation has a lyric, musical quality that is quite charming. D.G. (c) AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine