This is a stylish, elegant mystery set in Medieval England with a lead character who has depths, intelligence and a charm that seduces probably the most picky reader. Brother Cadfael is charming, yet cunning. This is Peters' bow in her well known series set during the times of King Stephen and Empress Malthide war over power and country. This first novel is self contained. The plot is smart yet not difficult to follow. This is my second series I revisited that didn't disappointed me. Definitely worth the discovery or reread.