A Morbid Taste For Bones

Review of Brother Cadfael Series, Book #1

            Anyone who is a regular visitor or subscriber to this blog knows that I review Christian fiction, in addition to secular mysteries and some nonfiction. My big issue with Christian fiction is that it predominately has a Protestant perspective. I rarely come across novels with a Catholic perspective. As a practicing Catholic, this is really frustrating. Fortunately, if you want Catholic fiction that deals with serious theological issues, I highly recommend the Brother Cadfael series. Yes, it is a historical mystery series set in the Middle Ages (historical mysteries are becoming my favorite), but it also is not afraid to delve deeper into theological issues.

            In the first book of the series, Brother Cadfael’s superior (Prior Robert) wants to acquire the relics of a saint (Saint Winifred) and bring them back to the abbey in Shrewsbury. Acquiring these relics would increase the reputation and status of the abbey. Brother Cadfael is asked to come along on the journey because the relics are in a Welsh town and the people speak Welsh. Cadfael is from Wales and can communicate with the townspeople.

            Not everyone in the town is happy that they are there. Some people think that the bones of Saint Winifred should remain there. One of the most prominent opponents to the transfer of the bones is murdered with an arrow. At first, people think Saint Winifred is responsible. Brother Cadfael, who is very logical and knowledgeable of medicine of the time, does not buy this explanation. He investigates and finds the true murderer.

            The theological message of this novel is what it means to truly honor the saints. Honoring the saints is an important aspect of Catholicism. It’s a unique aspect of it; Protestants do not focus as much attention on the saints. Cadfael’s superior wants the relics of Saint Winifred for status, but that is not the reason these bones exist. Saints are an example to all of us. They are role models to serving God. By acquiring these bones as some sort of status symbol, the Shrewsbury abbey is placing a materialistic view on the bones. It should not matter where the bones are located. What matters is what we learn from each saint. The relics are not pieces of gold; they are very human representations of a spiritual destiny we all can achieve if we strive to serve God selflessly.

            Next book in Cadfael Series: One Corpse Too Many

            I will try to review in March.