She was also an expert on the history of the time frame she used for Cadfael (wrote history under the name Edith Pargeter) while Robb apparently did most of her historical research for this book. Peters had an advantage as she was actually Welsh and understood the importance of being Welsh which she cleverly worked into every one of her stories.
However, I made the mistake of reading another book in the series first and it spoiled some of the plot in APOTHECARY ROSE so I recommend you read this one first.
Robb has one plot with a few twists, but she spends much more time in the first novel building up her characters-which I think pays off somewhat in later books in the series. Her mystery books always have three plots going on at one time-a main plot and two subplots. Her books could be read out of order as the plots stand on their own, but the reader will miss a few insights and not "get" some insider information if s/he reads them out of order. Peters plot development is much stronger. Both series take place in the Middle Ages, though Cadfael lived in the mid 1100s and Archer in the mid 1300s. Candace Robb's series (APOTHECARY ROSE is the first installment) features the exploits of Owen Archer spy-sleuth, and is comparable to Ellis Peters Cadfael series as both heros are Welsh, and ex-warriors with knowledge of herbal healing. Those fascinated with herbal remedies, Medieval times, and quick mystery reads (at the airport, on the plane) will probably enjoy this little book.
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