The Brothers of Glastonbury : Book Review

"The Brothers of Glastonbury" by Kate Sedley is a captivating historical mystery that takes place in medieval England. The protagonist, Roger the Chapman, is a skilled craftsman who becomes entangled in a complex web of murder, secrets, and intrigue. Set against a backdrop of political unrest, religious conflict, and superstition, Sedley's attention to historical detail brings the medieval setting to life.

The author's vivid descriptions effortlessly transport readers to Glastonbury Abbey, immersing them in the bustling market town and its colorful characters. Sedley's portrayal of the monks and their way of life is particularly impressive, providing a realistic glimpse into the challenges they faced during that era.

The plot is expertly crafted and keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. Multiple storylines are woven together, and the introduction of a wide range of intriguing characters, each with their own motives and secrets, adds depth to the narrative. The mystery itself is cleverly constructed, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the final pages. The pacing is well-balanced, ensuring a mix of action-packed scenes and moments for reflection.

One of the highlights of "The Brothers of Glastonbury" is the character development. Roger the Chapman is a relatable and compelling protagonist, known for his wit and resourcefulness. His unwavering determination to uncover the truth, despite the risks he faces, is commendable. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, enhancing the complexity of the story.

Overall, Kate Sedley's "The Brothers of Glastonbury" is an immersive historical mystery that transports readers to medieval England. The well-researched setting, intriguing plot, and memorable characters make it a must-read for fans of the genre. Sedley's writing talent shines through, making this book an enjoyable and satisfying read from beginning to end.

What are readers saying?

"The Brothers of Glastonbury" by Kate Sedley is a historical fiction novel set in 12th century Glastonbury Abbey, centering around the murder of a monk. The book has received a mix of reviews from readers, with some praising the engaging plot and well-rounded characters, while others found the pacing to be slow and the plot predictable.

Readers commend Sedley for her ability to vividly transport them to the medieval period with her descriptive writing style and attention to historical detail. The meticulous research that went into creating an authentic setting adds depth and authenticity to the story. Sedley's fluent and accessible writing style also allows readers to easily engage with the narrative.

Opinions on the characters in "The Brothers of Glastonbury" are varied. Some appreciate the depth and complexity of the main character, Sir Baldwin Furnshill, a former knight turned investigator. They find his flaws and virtues relatable, adding depth to his portrayal. However, others feel that the characters lack development and come across as flat, which diminishes their investment in the story.

While the general consensus is that the plot is interesting and engaging, some readers express dissatisfaction with the pacing. They feel that the story unfolds too slowly, and the resolution of the murder mystery takes too long. This slower pace led to frustration and reduced enjoyment for some readers. Additionally, a few found the plot to be predictable, anticipating major twists before they occurred, which lessened their overall surprise and excitement.

In conclusion, reviews for Kate Sedley's "The Brothers of Glastonbury" offer a mix of opinions. Readers appreciate the historical accuracy, engaging plot, and descriptive writing style, but some find the character development lacking and the pacing slow. Despite these varying opinions, those with an interest in medieval historical fiction may still find enjoyment in this book.

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