Cuddy

St. Cuthbert (affectionately known as Cuddy) was a gentle soul, devoted to his God and beloved by all who knew him. After his death in 687, various miracles occurred at his tomb and his popularity gained cult status. When Vikings attacked in 875, monks picked up Cuddy’s casket and fled, vowing to find a safe place for his body. They wandered for seven years before settling in Chester-le-Street. When the Viking threat returned, monks once again gathered the coffin and took to the road. This time, they saw signs that Cuddy was leading them to Durham. A magnificent cathedral was eventually built there and Cuddy found his final resting place in the Shrine of St. Cuthbert. Meyers’ novel is set against this historical backdrop. It is divided into four distinct parts exploring the lives of miscellaneous individuals, starting in 687 and ending in modern times, all linked through the spirit of Cuddy and Durham Cathedral. Meyers uses various literary genres, including poetry and screenplay, to add depth to his sweeping novel. Despite its grand historical reach and unorthodox writing style, the book is a captivating and rewarding read.