For episode 279 of the A Good Story is Hard to Find podcast, Julie picked One Corpse Too Many by Ellis Peters. This was my first Brother Cadfael novel, and it won’t be my last! I thoroughly enjoyed the 12th century setting. I’m also intrigued by the fact that around these stories actual historical events are playing out.
Brother Cadfael is a Welsh Benedictine monk with a past that included participation in the Crusades. In this book, the monastery is charged with burying 94 bodies after a battle took place nearby. The problem is that 95 bodies are delivered, not 94. One corpse too many. And Brother Cadfael takes on the mystery.
You can listen on the Good Story website or subscribe at most of the places folks listen to podcasts; just search your favorite podcast app for A Good Story is Hard to Find.
I found a very nice interview of the author, who’s actual name is Edith Mary Pargeter, from 1991: Queens of Crime: Ellis Peters
From that interview:
I tend to feel that people really want something they can live with in comfort, and a little encouragement to go on living, rather than being battered by violence the whole time.
I think it’s a tremendous relief to have something that is hopeful, encouraging, makes you feel better about being human. Not worse.
Tragedy is entirely bearable and indeed uplifting provided it retains hope.
Also interesting: Edith Pargeter was 60 when she wrote the first Brother Cadfael novel.
