Brother Cadfael never lets me down. There is always an interesting mystery to be solved, usually using gentle Christian methods. This time, Cadfael gets to remember a bit of his youth as a Crusader when he tackles a bad guy. He resolves to do penance later for the pleasure of pummeling a criminal during the moment.
Cadfael is feeling his age physically but he is still mentally strong. He puts the pieces together and forms a plan immediately. It helps that his abbot, Radulphus, trusts his Brother. It also is good to have supportive friends like Hugh Beringar who also recognize Cadfael's sharp mind.
As usual, there is a gentle romance entwined with the action and our Benedictine monk has a definite soft spot for young lovers. Many fictional love stories have miscommunication bumps to overcome and Cadfael is often at pains to explain what's going on, often to distressed young women, and to steering confused young men back to these damsels. It doesn't overpower the mystery, but happens naturally and sweetly.
There is also a skillful circling back to the original book of the series, A Morbid Taste for Bones. Cadfael is feeling guilty about the circumstances of the securing of Saint Winifred's remains. He followed expediency at the time and now he is concerned that the Saint will not smile on his monastery. He needn't have worried. She brings the Abbey at Shrewsbury many good things. Obviously a very practical Saint (or one with an impish sense of humour).
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