Set in the year 660, this novel was a change of pace for me. Sister Fidelma and Brother Eadulf are Catholic clergy as well as lovers (apparently things were VERY different back then and this was OK), traveling in a bitter storm to answer the summons of Brother Botulf, Eadulf's childhood friend. Botulf has asked Eadulf to meet him at Aldred Abbey before midnight on the eve of the pagan feat of Yule. Fidelma and Eadulf are greeted at the gates with the news that the abbey is now a cloistered house for men only and that Brother Botulf has been found dead. Since Fidelma has been taken ill, the couple are allowed to rest at the abbey with strict orders that Fidelma remain in her room at all times.
Tremayne, who is a historian of note, breathes life into 7th century England. As brother Eadulf investigates the death of his friend and the strange behavior of Abbot Cild, the reader is transported back to time, with details of everyday life in the 7th century represented in descriptions of medical care,. travel, superstitions, religious customs and life, food, and landscape. The atmosphere in this novel is wonderful. It takes a bit of time to get used to the Celtic names and large cast of characters, but the era is fascinating and the main characters are very appealing. I would definitely read more!
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