Search results for ""Author Peter Tremayne""

Filled with murder and conspiracy, BEHOLD A PALE HORSE is the brilliant twenty-second novel in the gripping Sister Fidelma series by the internationally bestselling author Peter Tremayne.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'A compulsive readable whodunit fronted by one of the most reliably intriguing characters to grace the pages of the genre' BooklistAD 664: Sister Fidelma finds herself in the seaport of Genua, en route from Rome back to her native Cashel. Her old teacher, Brother Ruadán, lies dying in the abbey of Bobium - an isolated abbey in a disturbed country where even the Christians are in bloody conflict with one another and the worship of the pagan gods often prevails. Fidelma is determined to see Brother Ruadán before he dies. But from the moment she enters the beautiful valley of the Trebbia, there is danger on every side. Her dying teacher's last words send her off on her most dangerous adventure where murder follows murder and a vicious civil war threatens before an extraordinary conspiracy is revealed. And from the start, Fidelma is on her own...What readers are saying about BEHOLD A PALE HORSE:'Buy it, light the fire and resign yourself that once you start, you won't be able to set it down''Tremayne is one of those very few historical mystery writers who can perplex and bewilder. He weaves the twisty plots into a complex historical narrative''7th century hopes and fears brought to life in the 21st century. Another world comes alive'

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Sister Fidelma returns in THE SHAPESHIFTER'S LAIR, the thirty-first Celtic mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of BLOOD IN EDEN, BLOODMOON and PENANCE OF THE DAMNED. If you love Ellis Peters, you'll be gripped by THE SHAPESHIFTER'S LAIR and the Sister Fidelma series.Ireland. AD 672.The body of a dead man has been found on a lonely mountain road and taken to the isolated abbey of Gleann Da Loch for a proper burial. The abbot quickly identifies him as Brehon Brocc, who had been travelling to the abbey on a secret mission with Princess Gelgeis and her steward. When news reaches Colgu, King of Muman, that his betrothed, Princess Gelgeis, has disappeared, Fidelma with her trusted companions, Eadulf and Enda, enter the hostile Kingdom of Laigin in search of the truth.But one death is quickly followed by another and warnings of demonic shapeshifters and evil lurking in the mountains must be taken seriously. Are there really brigands stealing gold and silver from the ancient mines? And are rumours of a war between the Kingdoms of Laigin and Muman to be believed? As Fidelma searches for answers, she must do everything in her power to avoid danger and death in a land where no one is to be trusted...What readers are saying about the Sister Fidelma series:'Tremayne is one of those very few historical mystery writers who can perplex and bewilder. He weaves the twisty plots into a complex historical narrative''A must-read for anyone looking for a good mystery''The characters are original, the settings are imaginative and true-to-life and the intricate plots form enough threads to keep you guessing at every turn'

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A one-off collection of twelve Shakespearean-themed murder mysteries set in Elizabethan London, featuring Master Hardy Drew, Constable of the Bankside Watch, from the acclaimed author of the 7th century Irish Sister Fidelma mysteries.It is the early 1600s and the City of London sees Queen Elizabeth living out her dying days as Scottish King James waits in the wings to take to the throne.Meanwhile, in Southwark, along the south bank of the River Thames, Master Hardy Drew, Constable of the Bankside Watch, maintains law and order amongst the cut-throats and smugglers, in the taverns and brothels, as well as with the gentlefolk, who flock across the river to enjoy the latest plays by Shakespeare and Jonson.In twelve enthralling murder mysteries, brought together in this captivating collection of short stories, Master Hardy Drew confronts mystery and murder most foul and learns that deaths come cheaply on the Bankside Watch . . .Acclaim for P

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Set in a Rome riven by religious and political conflicts, SHROUD FOR THE ARCHBISHOP is the second compelling novel in Peter Tremayne's gripping Celtic mystery series.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'A compulsive readable whodunit fronted by one of the most reliably intriguing characters to grace the pages of the genre' BooklistWighard, archbishop designate of Canterbury, has been discovered garrotted in his chambers in the Lateran Palace in Rome in the autumn of AD 664. The solution to this terrible crime appears simple as the palace guards have arrested Brother Ronan Ragallach, as he fled from Wighard's chamber.Although the Irish monk denies responsibility, Bishop Gelasius is convinced the crime is political and that Wighard was slain in pique at the triumph of the pro-Roman Anglo-Saxon clergy in their debate with the pro-Columba Irish clergy at Whitby. There is also a matter of missing treasure: the goodwill gifts Wighad had brought with him to Rome and the priceless chalices sent for the Holy Father Vitalian's blessings have all been stolen.Bishop Gelasius realises that Wighard's murder could lead to war between the Saxon and Irish kingdoms if Ronan is accused without independent evidence. So he invites Sister Fidelma of Kildare and Brother Eadulf to investigate. But more deaths must follow before Fidelma is finally able to put together the strange jigsaw in this tale of evil and vengeance.What readers are saying about SHROUD FOR THE ARCHBISHOP:'A fascinating insight into the politics of the early Catholic Church''As with his other novels, Peter Tremayne manages to combine a superbly tense mystery, with historical accuracy, making the novels both entertaining and educational''Gripping from start to finish'

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Super sleuth Sister Fidelma returns in SMOKE IN THE WIND, the eleventh perplexing historical mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of SMOKE IN THE WIND, OUR LADY OF DARKNESS and many more.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'The background detail is brilliantly defined... Wonderfully evocative' The Times, 'Sister Fidelma is fast becoming a world ambassador for ancient Irish culture' Irish Post Sister Fidelma and her companion Brother Eadulf are on their way to visit the new Archbishop of Canterbury, when their ship is blown off course and they land on the coast of the Welsh kingdom of Dyfed. They are given hospitality by King Gwlyddien and Abbot Tryffin of the Abbey of Dewi Sant, and are asked if they would help to solve the mystery of how the entire monastic community of the Abbey, including the King's eldest son, could vanish into thin air. It's not long before the trail leads to deaths and treachery in high places and Fidelma and Eadulf are faced with a sinister and baffling puzzle. What readers are saying about SMOKE IN THE WIND:'Absolutely brilliant. Each one gets better than the one before''The twists and turns keep me wanting to know what happened. An excellent story, well written''An amazing tale that I could hardly put down!'

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Autumn, AD 672. While out walking, Abbot Brocc was shocked to encounter the sinister apparition of a young woman, cloaked entirely in grey, who foretold his impending death. Dismissing the soothsayer''s words, Brocc nevertheless felt concerned enough to ask for Sister Fidelma''s advice on the matter. But by the time Fidelma and her companions arrive at the remote abbey of Dair Inis, Brocc has been found dead in the abbey''s sweat house - as the mysterious prophetess had predicted. Plunged into a world of uncertainty, where believers of the Old and New Faiths are violently opposed, Fidelma, Eadulf and Dego embark on a journey fraught with danger, in a puzzling and perilous quest for the truth behind Brocc''s murder . . .Praise for the Sister Fidelma mysteries:''A challenging and unusual but deeply satisfying and enjoyable historical thriller'' Booklist''The background detail is brilliantly defined...wonderfully evocative''

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Super sleuth Sister Fidelma returns in BADGER'S MOON, the thirteenth historical mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author THE HAUNTED ABBOT, SMOKE IN THE WIND and many more.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'Rich helpings of evil and tension with lively and varied characters' Historical Novels Review, 'The detail of the books is fascinating, giving us a vivid picture of everyday life at this time' Irish Examiner A series of horrific murders has brought terror to the Kingdom of Muman. The victims, all young girls, were slaughtered with unspeakable violence on the nights of three consecutive full moons. Suspicion falls on three dark strangers from the distant land of Aksum (Ethiopia), who are guests at the Abbey of Finbarr. A panic-stricken mob attacks the abbey, leaving the religious in fear for their lives. Sister Fidelma and Brother Eadulf are called in to restore order and find the killer, but it soon becomes clear that the three mysterious strangers are hiding a dark secret. And what about the ageing Laig, a hermit-like apothecary, who is known to have instructed all three victims about the magic and power of the moon; what sinister truths are hidden in his dark woodland dwelling? As Fidelma struggles to repair her faltering relationship with Eadulf, can she uncover the truth before the killer strikes again on the next night of the full moon?What readers are saying about BADGER'S MOON:'Another exciting whodunit from the master of historic intrigue''Fast-paced and suspenseful, this Sister Fidelma mystery is a real page-turner''Complex and multi-layered - one of the best in the series so far'

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A stranger murdered in a gruesome ritual. A prophetess foretelling the return of the ancient gods.Sister Fidelma returns in the twenty-eighth gripping Celtic mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of THE SECOND DEATH and PENANCE OF THE DAMNED.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'The background detail is brilliantly defined . . . wonderfully evocative' The Times, 'A brilliant and beguiling heroine. Immensely appealing' Publishers Weekly Ireland, AD 671. On the eve of the pagan feast of Samhain, Brother Edulf and the warrior, Aidan, discover a man murdered in an unlit pyre in the heart of Cashel. He has been dressed in the robes of a religieux and killed by the ritualistic 'three deaths'.When a strange woman known as Brancheó appears in a raven-feather cloak foretelling of ancient gods returning to exact revenge upon the mortal world, she is quickly branded a suspect.But in their search for the killer, Sister Fidelma and Eadulf will soon discover a darker shadow looming over the fortress. For their investigation is linked to a book stolen from the Papal Secret Archives which could destroy the New Faith in the Five Kingdoms...and Fidelma herself will come up against mortal danger before the case is unravelled.What readers are saying about NIGHT OF THE LIGHTBRINGER:'The story is crisp, the characters fascinating and the reading relaxing''Well-researched and well-plotted with interesting characters''As with any Sister Fidelma book, utterly fantastic. A great read!'

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Sister Fidelma returns in the twenty-seventh 7th-century Irish mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of THE DEVIL'S SEAL and THE SECOND DEATH. If you love Ellis Peters you will be gripped by this novel.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'Rich helpings of evil and tension with lively and varied characters' Historical Novels Review, 'The detail of the books is fascinating, giving us a vivid picture of everyday life at this time' Irish Examiner Ireland, AD 671. King Colgú of Cashel is shocked to learn that his loyal Chief Bishop and advisor has been murdered in the old enemy fortress of the Uí Fidgente. When word reaches Cashel that the culprit will be executed under new law, a larger conflict threatens.Dispatched to investigate, Sister Fidelma and her companion Eadulf discover that the man facing punishment is Gormán - commander of the King's bodyguard. But Fidelma cannot believe Gormán would carry out such an act - and yet he was found locked in a chamber with the body, weapon in hand. The evidence is stacked against him.If they are to save Gormán and keep the peace between the kingdoms, Fidelma and Eadulf must find the true culprit. As the threat of war looms, the date of execution draws ever closer . . . What readers are saying about PENANCE OF THE DAMNED:'Within this marvellous mystery, all the characters come vividly to life. Story-telling is of top-notch quality, because the author keeps you spellbound right until the end''Exciting plot, great characters and a fascinating insight into the sophistication and wisdom of the law and society of ancient Ireland''A must-read for anyone looking for a good mystery'

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Super sleuth Sister Fidelma returns in the twenty-fourth historical mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of THE SEVENTH TRUMPET, THE SUBTLE SERPENT and many more.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'This is masterly storytelling from an author who breathes fascinating life into the world he is writing about' Belfast Telegraph, 'The Background detail is brilliantly defined... wonderfully evocative' The Times Winter, 670 AD. King Colgú has invited the leading nobles and chieftains of his kingdom to a feast day. The gathering is interrupted by a religieux claiming that he has an important message for the King. Suddenly, the man, shouting 'Remember Liamuin!' stabs King Colgú. The assassin is slain but Colgú is on the verge of death. Who is Liamuin? It is a female name? Who is behind the assassination attempt? Colgú's lawyer sister, Fidelma of Cashel, and her companion, Brother Eadulf are charged with solving the mystery. They must journey into the territory of their arch-enemies, the Uí Fidgente, uncover the evil secrets in the dark, brooding Abbey of Mungairit, and venture into the threatening mountain fastness ruled by a godless tyrant. Danger and violence are their constant companions until the final devastating revelation . . .What readers are saying about ATONEMENT OF BLOOD:'Lots of action and plenty of twists, turns and red-herrings''Beautifully written - beautifully realised scenes from a past that dare not be forgotten''Another excellent mystery with so much historical background and colour'

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While investigating the savage murder of a religious magnate, Sister Fidelma uncovers a dark world of slavery and abuse within the abbey walls, in Peter Tremayne's thrilling nineteenth mystery, THE COUNCIL OF THE CURSED.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'Rich helpings of evil and tension with lively and varied characters' Historical Novel Review, 'The masterly storytelling from an author hwo breathes fascinating life into the world he is writing about' Belfast Telegraph It is AD 670, and Bishop Leodegar has called the church leaders together for an emergency meeting. But a fierce row breaks out and the assembly descends into chaos. Later that evening one of the delegates is discovered murdered, his skull brutally smashed. Sister Fidelma and her companion, Brother Eadulf, unwittingly find themselves in the middle of a shocking murder investigation involving the most powerful religious leaders in the land. The disappearance of women and children and rumours of a slave trade indicate malevolent forces at work. To catch those responsible, Fidelma and Eadulf must challenge these fearsome individuals and in doing so, risk their own lives...What readers are saying about THE COUNCIL OF THE CURSED:'Interesting history intertwined in the plot, with many twist and turns''Well plotted with plenty of tension. Excellent read - don't miss this book''How Peter Tremayne manages to keep producing entertaining, unique stories is simply amazing. Fresh and interesting right up to the end'

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Sister Fidelma returns in the twenty-first 7th-century Irish mystery, THE CHALICE OF BLOOD by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of THE DOVE OF DEATH and THE COUNCIL OF THE CURSED. If you love Ellis Peters you will be gripped by this novel.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'The background detail is brilliantly defined . . . wonderfully evocative' The Times, 'A brilliant and beguiling heroine. Immensely appealing' Publishers Weekly Ireland AD 670. When an eminent scholar is found murdered in his cell in the abbey of Lios Mór, fear spreads among his brethren; his door was secured from the inside, with no other means of exit. How did the murderer escape? And what was the content of the manuscripts apparently stolen from the scholar's room? Abbot Iarnla insists on sending for Sister Fidelma and her companion Brother Eadulf to investigate the killing. But even before they reach the abbey walls, there is an attempt on their lives. As the mystery deepens, Fidelma and Eadulf must also wrestle with problems of their own, which threaten to separate them for ever... What readers are saying about THE CHALICE OF BLOOD:'Excellent historical content as well as the usual intriguing mystery''Tremayne continues to satisfy Sister Fidelma mavens''Kept me guessing right up until the end. A great read'

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Super sleuth Sister Fidelma returns in THE LEPER'S BELL the fourteenth historical mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of BADGER'S MOON, THE HAUNTED ABBOT and many more.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'The background detail is brilliantly defined . . . wonderfully evocative' The Times, 'A brilliant and beguiling heroine. Immensely appealing' Publishers Weekly A servant has been murdered and the baby in her charge abducted. Fidelma of Cashel has solved even more horrendous crimes in her career as an advocate of the ancient Brehon Courts of Ireland. But this case is different. For both Sister Fidelma and her companion, Brother Eadulf of Saxmund's Ham, the case is unique because of the personal emotions involved. The baby who has been abducted is their own son. What is the motive for their crime? Could someone seeking vengeance on Fidelma and Eadulf have done the deed? They have made a lot of enemies in their pursuit of justice. Fidelma and Eadulf, ignoring protests that they are too emotionally involved to undertake the investigation, set out on an increasingly desperate mission to save their son...What readers are saying about THE LEPER'S BELL:'Colourful, imaginative, humorous and intriguing... as with all of his books in the Sister Fidelma series''The most heart-breaking of perils for Sister Fidelma and Brother Eadulf and so many mysteries to resolve! Excellent in every way''Another first-class Sister Fidelma mystery'

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Super sleuth Sister Fidelma returns in THE MONK WHO VANISHED, the seventh historical mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of VALLEY OF THE SHADOW, THE SPIDER'S WEB and many more.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'The background detail is brilliantly defined . . . wonderfully evocative' The Times, 'A brilliant and beguiling heroine. Immensely appealing' Publishers Weekly The Abbey of Imleach, in the south-west Irish kingdom of Muman, now rivals Armagh as the centre of the faith in Ireland. For the founder of the abbey was none other than St Ailbe, the man who brought Christianity to Muman, converted its king and baptised him at Cashel in AD448.But now, calamity has struck the community of the abbey. Not only has an elderly monk suddenly disappeared, but the holy relics of St Ailbe have also vanished. These sacred relics are not just the concern of the abbey's community but are a priceless icon and political symbol of the entire kingdom. So who would have dared to take them?Sister Fidelma, together with Saxon Brother Eadulf, are asked to investigate. It seems there is more to the disappearances than meets the eye; much more. Fidelma gradually uncovers a sinister conspiracy, in which the participants will stop at nothing - even murder - to achieve their aims ...What readers are saying about THE MONK WHO VANISHED:'An excellent mystery, high intrigue aimed at the heart of the kingdom''Another superb story from Peter Tremayne. One of his best as the secrecy and mystery surrounding the murders that occur makes this story truly lifelike' 'Five stars - the series continues to delight and entertain'

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Irish super-sleuth Sister Fidelma is faced with a challenging and disturbing case to investigate in THE SPIDER'S WEB, Peter Tremayne's fifth unputdownable Celtic mystery. PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'The background detail is brilliantly defined . . . wonderfully evocative' The Times, 'A brilliant and beguiling heroine. Immensely appealing' Publishers Weekly Ebert is not a man to make enemies. He is a chieftain with a reputation for kindliness and generosity. Yet, one night, his household is aroused by a scream from his chamber. The servants burst in to find Móen, a young man to whom Eber had extended his protection, crouched over the bloody body of the chieftain. Móen's clothes are drenched in Eber's blood and he is clutching a bloodstained knife in his hand.There seems no doubt of culpability, but why did Móen kill the gentle and courteous Eber? The problem is exacerbated by the fact that Móen himself cannot tell them - for he is deaf, dumb and blind...Sister Fidelma, advocate of the ancient Irish law courts, is compelled to begin an investigation of the killing in order to present an argument on Móen's behalf before he is condemned. Assisted by Brother Eadulf, Fidelma finds that the path to truth twists and turns with the sinister forces of primitive passions and subtle ambitions - and leads inexorably to a final, stunning denouement.What readers are saying about THE SPIDER'S WEB:'Another great read, full of interesting insight into the times, the prejudices and superstitions, whilst playing out the complex details of the plot''Peter Tremayne has woven a very clever story with as many paths as the web of a spider. Beautiful''The Sister Fidelma mysteries are absolutely the best'

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Sister Fidelma is thrown into a sinister mystery full of intrigue, danger and violence in Peter Tremayne's fourth Celtic mystery.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'Definitely an Ellis Peters competitor' Evening Standard, 'This is masterly storytelling from an author who breathes fascinating life into the worth he is writing about' Belfast Telegraph A headless female corpse is found in the drinking well of a remote abbey in south-west Ireland. One hand clasps a crucifix; tied to the other arm is a pagan death symbol...A merchant ship is encountered under full sail on the high seas off the Irish coast. But the crew and cargo have vanished - as if by sorcery...Whose is the body in the well? Where is the crew of the vessel? Are these bizarre events connected? And if so, who is responsible?The year is AD 666, and Sister Fidelma of Kildare, advocate of the Brehon law courts, must follow a trail of clues and investigate a host of enigmatic suspects to unravel the puzzle.What readers are saying about THE SUBTLE SERPENT:'An excellent story to keep you riveted, with marvellous insight into the life and times of old Ireland''As always, a gripping yarn, told with plenty of period detail. Tremayne is a master of his art''Full of suspense, intrigue and information'

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Sister Fidelma returns in REVENGE OF THE STORMBRINGER, the thirty-fourth Celtic mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of DEATH OF A HERETIC, THE HOUSE OF DEATH, and THE SHAPESHIFTER''S LAIR. If you love Ellis Peters, you''ll be gripped by REVENGE OF THE STORMBRINGER and the Sister Fidelma series.Summer, AD 672. Princess Gelgéis has arrived in Cashel with her personal bodyguard, a troop of female warriors called the Daughters of the Storm. When one of them is found slain next to the sleeping chamber of the newly married king and queen and, a short time later, the stewardess of the royal house is poisoned, questions are raised as to everyone''s safety . . .Fidelma and Eadulf must first explain the ''locked room'' mystery of how the attack took place in King Colgu''s specially built secure apartment. Then they must interrogate the growing list of suspects - even Enda, the commander of the household guard, who had formed a romantic attachment to the murdered

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WHISPERS OF THE DEAD is a sumptuously rich feast of fifteeen short mystery tales, featuring the brilliant and beguiling Sister Fidelma, the seventh-century sleuth of the Celtic Church.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'A brilliant and beguiling heroine. Immensely appealing' Publishers Weekly, 'Definitely an Ellis Peter competitorSister Fidelma originally made her debut as one of crime fiction's most interesting sleuths in short story form. The sharp-witted religieuse captured the hearts of many readers as she successfully tackled the most baffling of crimes in her other role as advocate of the law courts of Ireland, using the ancient Brehon Law system. This collection contains an astonishing range of crimes and misdemeanours and seamlessly blends historical detail, character and story into mysteries that will confound and surprise.WHISPERS OF THE DEAD is the second collection of these stories to be published in the UK. With its breath-taking range of settings and crimes, it is guaranteed to entertain and intrigue - and is an anthology that no lover of Celtic culture or historical crime should be without.What readers are saying about WHISPERS OF THE DEAD:'Beautifully written with style and wit''An excellent collection - I had a hard time putting it down''The Sister Fidelma novels are taking on almost cult proportions and are becoming ever more popular with each offering from the author, whose obvious knowledge of the times and subjects shine out like a beacon on the shore'

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Super sleuth Sister Fidelma returns in THE HAUNTED ABBOT, the twelfth historical mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of SMOKE IN THE WIND, OUR LADY OF DARKNESS and many more.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'Definitely an Ellis Peters competitor' Evening Standard, 'This is masterly storytelling from an author who breathes fascinating life into the worth he is writing about' Belfast Telegraph As they are preparing to return to Ireland, Fidelma and Brother Eadulf receive a mysterious summons. Eadulf's childhood friend, Brother Botulf, has requested their presence at Aldred's Abbey at midnight on the old pagan feast of Yule. Fidelma and Eadulf battle against the harsh winter storms to arrive in time, only to find they are too late. Botulf is dead - killed by an unknown hand. As they struggle to comprehend this staggering news, it soon becomes clear that the murder of this young monk is not the only trouble facing the abbey. The abbey is haunted by the ghost of a young woman - a woman some say bears a startling likeness to the Abbot Cild's dead wife. But can Fidelma and Eadulf discover the truth before they themselves fall victim to the danger which pervades the abbey walls? What readers are saying about THE HAUNTED ABBOT: 'Another amazing and twisted story from the British Isles in 7th century. A brilliantly put together plot, a complex mystery and a thoroughly enjoyable read''Outstanding''Full of intrigue and mystery and as usual Sister Fidelma is my hero. Very thrilling'

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HEMLOCK AT VESPERS is Peter Tremayne's anthology of Celtic mysteries featuring the ever-popular 7th-century super-sleuth Sister Fidelma. PRAISE FOR HEMLOCK AT VESPERS: 'This collection is an essential canonical text for Sister Fidelma Acolytes' Publisher's Weekly 'A treasure trove of small gems for historical mystery fans' Booklist'A complex mesh of betrayals that also catch up the sleuth, exploting both Fidelma's strengths and vulnerabilities' Kirkus Reviews Sister Fidelma originally made her debut as one of the decade's most interesting sleuths in short story form. The sharp-witted and astonishingly wise religieuse captured the hearts of many readers as she successfully tackled the most baffling of crimes in her other role as advocate of the law courts of Ireland, using the ancient Brehon Law system. The overwhelming response to these stories launched Fidelma as the heroine of a bestselling series of Celtic crime novels. But it also created a demand for further short stories. HEMLOCK AT VESPERS is the first collection of these stories ever to be published. With its breathtaking range of settings and crimes, it is guaranteed to entertain and intrigue - and is an anthology that no lover of Celtic culture or historical crime should be without.What readers are saying about HEMLOCK AT VESPERS: 'Intriguing, entertaining and informative''Brilliant. These books get better and better''There are echoes in the story that still reverberate today'

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Sister Fidelma returns in REVENGE OF THE STORMBRINGER, the thirty-fourth Celtic mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of DEATH OF A HERETIC, THE HOUSE OF DEATH, and THE SHAPESHIFTER'S LAIR. If you love Ellis Peters, you'll be gripped by REVENGE OF THE STORMBRINGER and the Sister Fidelma series.Summer, AD 672. Princess Gelgéis has arrived in Cashel with her personal bodyguard, a troop of female warriors called the Daughters of the Storm. When one of them is found slain next to the sleeping chamber of the newly married king and queen and, a short time later, the stewardess of the royal house is poisoned, questions are raised as to everyone's safety . . .Fidelma and Eadulf must first explain the 'locked room' mystery of how the attack took place in King Colgu's specially built secure apartment. Then they must interrogate the growing list of suspects - even Enda, the commander of the household guard, who had formed a romantic attachment to the murdered attendant, cannot be ignored . . . As the fair being held to celebrate the king and queen's wedding approaches, tensions mount and Fidelma must work quickly to expose a ruthless killer before it is too late . . .

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Super sleuth Sister Fidelma returns in the seventeenth historical mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of MASTER OF SOULS, WHISPERS OF THE DEAD and many more.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'Rich helpings of evil and tension with lively and varied characters' Historical Novels Review, 'The most detailed and vivid recreations of ancient Ireland' Irish Examiner February, AD 668, and Cashel is full of distinguished visitors. Under the old Irish custom, Fidelma of Cashel and Eadulf of Seaxmund's Ham, having been joined together for a year and a day, are to be married. But on the eve of the ceremony, the pious Abbot Ultán is found murdered in his chamber. Worse still - one of the most distinguished guests, the King of Connacht, is seen fleeing from the scene and charged with the murder. He demands his right to appoint Fidelma in his defence. Fidelma soon discovers that Abbot Ultán is not the pious man he was thought to be - indeed, many of the guests have cause to hate him. It is a long weekend of suspicion, fear and more death before Fidelma and Eadulf are able to reveal the truth behind Ultán's murder. What readers are saying about A PRAYER FOR THE DAMNED:'Tremayne is unparalleled. Five stars''The twists and turns kept me intrigued throughout this excellent book''Keeps you guessing right till the end. Very well written'

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Sister Fidelma must find the link that connects the mysterious crimes in MASTER OF SOULS, Peter Tremayne's brilliant sixteenth novel in the ever-popular Sister Fidelma mystery series.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'A compulsive readable whodunit fronted by one of the most reliably intriguing characters to grace the pages of the genre' BooklistOn a storm-driven night, wreckers drive a ship onto rocks off the coast of Ireland. An Abbess leading a pilgrimage is killed and the young religieuse with her abducted. An ageing scholar is murdered in the Abbey of Ard Fhearta. Do these events have a connection?Sister Fidelma and Brother Eadulf go to Ard Fhearta to examine the mystery. But the abbey stands in the territory of the Uí Fidgente, enemies of Fidelma and her brother, the King of Cashel, and danger threatens Fidelma and Eadulf from the moment of their arrival.What is the link that connects the crimes? Who is the mysterious `master of souls' spreading death and corruption across the land? Has Uaman the Leper, Lord of the Passes, returned from the dead?What readers are saying about MASTER OF SOULS:'Absolutely gripping from start to finish. Could not put it down''MASTER OF SOULS gives us more insight into the customs of ancient Ireland, as well as an interesting mystery to unravel''Peter Tremayne writes some of the best historical mysteries due in part to his heroine, a woman living in an enlightened country when the rest of Europe is going through the dark ages'

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Peter Tremayne, highly acclaimed author of HEMLOCK AT VESPERSand ACT OF MERCY, presents OUR LADY OF DARKNESS, the tenth gripping Celtic mystery featuring super-sleuth Sister Fidelma.PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'Definitely an Ellis Peters competitor' Evening Standard, 'This is masterly storytelling from an author who breathes fascinating life into the worth he is writing about' Belfast Telegraph Arriving home from a pilgrim voyage, Sister Fidelma hears that her faithful Saxon companion, Brother Eadulf, is under sentence of death for murder. She hastens to the capital of Laigin, where he is being held, determined to appeal against the sentence. The crime took place at the abbey of Fearna where Fidelma clashes with the sinister Abbess Fainder. The evidence against Eadulf seems overwhelming - can he actually be guilty? Will Fidelma's emotional involvement blind her in her desperate search for the truth? What readers are saying about OUR LADY OF DARKNESS:'Fascinating insight into seventh century Ireland, combining intrigue and excitement in equal measure''Kept me on tender-hooks and could not go to bed until I finished it!''An excellent mystery and informs you about the society contemporary to the protagonist'

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Super sleuth Sister Fidelma returns in the eighth historical mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of THE MONK WHO VANISHED, VALLEY OF THE SHADOW and many more.PRAISE FOR ACT OF MERCY: 'Wonderfully evocative' The Times When Sister Fidelma sets out on a pilgrimage in the autumn of AD 666, her main preoccupation is to reflect on her commitment to the religious life and her relationship with the Saxon monk, Eadulf, whom she has left behind. Complications arise during the first night on the ship when one of the pilgrims is apparently washed overboard. The discovery of a blood-stained robe raises the question of murder and Fidelma finds herself having to focus all her abilities on solving the mystery. Death dogs the tiny band of pilgrims in the close confines of the ship, but is not until the Holy Shrine is almost reached that the amazing truth is uncovered... What readers are saying about ACT OF MERCY:'I never tire of reading about the escapades of this very self-opinionated young woman and her interactions with some very strange characters! Another great read!''So many twists I could not put it down! Pilgrims and pirates - Fidelma has trouble finding the truth''An intriguing glimpse of Fidelma's interior life and past'

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Super-sleuth Sister Fidelma faces personal danger as proceeds through the valley of the shadow in the stunning sixth historical mystery by Peter Tremayne. PRAISE FOR VALLEY OF THE SHADOW: 'Tremayne's discriminating sense of history distinguishing ever-finer conflicts... creates an equally complex mystery for history-mad readers with eyes as sharp as Fidelma's' Kirkus Review Sister Fidelma has been sent by her brother, king of Cashel, to Laisre, chieftain of Gleann Geis - the 'forbidden valley' - to negotiate permission to build a Christian church and school in his territory, replacing the pagan Druidic sanctuaries. Laisre is known to be hostile to the new religion, and Fidelma knows her mission will be no easy task.Entering Gleann Geis with the Saxon Brother Eadulf, she comes across the naked, slain bodies of thirty-three young men, positioned in a sunwise circle. Each body bears the marks of stabbing and garrotting; every skull has been smashed. Who is reponsible for such evil, if not the heathen Laisre?What readers are saying about VALLEY OF THE SHADOW: 'A brilliantly twisting tale of human failings and their defeat by the truth''An excellent story, full of atmosphere''A tale with many twists and turns that captivated me from the first page. I could not put it down'

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Sister Fidelma returns in BLOOD IN EDEN, the thirtieth Celtic mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of BLOODMOON, PENANCE OF THE DAMNED and NIGHT OF THE LIGHTBRINGER. If you love Ellis Peters, you'll be gripped by BLOOD IN EDEN and the Sister Fidelma series.Ireland. AD 672. The hamlet of Cloichín is said to be a veritable Eden, with its prosperous farms and close-knit, friendly community. But when Sister Fidelma and Eadulf arrive, a new priest has ordered the villagers to lynch a man accused of murdering a local farmer, his wife and two sons. The only evidence they hold against him is the fact that he is a stranger to their land. Saving the man's life, Fidelma is determined that the villagers must give the newcomer a fair trial. But there is to be more blood in Eden and more lives will be lost as long-standing friends become new-found enemies, and no one knows who to trust . . .What readers are saying about the Sister Fidelma series:'Tremayne is one of those very few historical mystery writers who can perplex and bewilder. He weaves the twisty plots into a complex historical narrative''A must-read for anyone looking for a good mystery''The characters are original, the settings are imaginative and true-to-life and the intricate plots form enough threads to keep you guessing at every turn'

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