THE HOUSE OF DEATH

The kingship of Sister Fidelma’s brother, Colgú of Cashel, hangs by a thread in this fast-moving combination of history, mystery, and fantasy set in seventh-century Ireland.

In April of 672, as the Feast of Beltaine approaches, Colgú, King of Muman, awaits the verdict of the council on his kingship and a controversial treaty with a former enemy. When their old friend Brother Conchobhar is murdered and sacred relics in his keeping go missing, Fidelma, acting as her brother’s adviser and a widely recognized advocate of the law, takes on an investigation that will require all her gifts to unravel. Several of the visiting princes who are displeased with Colgú’s rule may be hatching a plot to discredit him using the missing treasures as an excuse. Only the sacred sword of Nuada is still safe, hanging on a wall that will now be guarded at all times. Adding to the tension is a report that the plague has arrived in Ireland. Cashel’s new physician seems both arrogant and useless in the face of impending disaster. Among the many suspects, Sister Ernmas, a mysterious, rarely seen nun, comes to top Fidelma’s list as she questions the unhappy princes and their retinues. An attack on Fidelma and more murders make her task increasingly difficult. Could secrets of the old religion being overtaken by Christianity hold the clues to protecting her brother’s kingship?

A complex, lovingly written mystery notable for its historical detail and strong heroine.