Late summer, 1270. Although the Simon de Montfort rebellion is over, the smell of death still hangs over the land. In the small priory of Tyndal, the monks and nuns of the Order of Fontevraud long for a return to routine. Their hopes are dashed, however, when the young and inexperienced Eleanor of Wynethorpe is appointed their new prioress. Only a day after her arrival, a brutally murdered monk is found in the cloister gardens, and Brother Thomas, a young priest with a troubled past, arrives to bring her a more personal grief. Now Eleanor must not only struggle to gain the respect of her terrified and resentful flock but also cope with violence, lust, and greed.
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“With its efficient depiction of the interaction between politics and religion, this amazing little slice of monastic life in 1270 Britain brings to mind Ellis Peters, Candace Robb, and other authors of medieval historicals…A most promising debut.”
— Library Journal
“Gripping, with an excellent plot and wonderfully realized characters. I picked it up on a long journey and could not put it down. Wonderful read.”
— Michael Jecks, New York Times bestselling author“Royal has a fresh narrative voice, an impressive ear for dialogue, and a keen sense of history. Find a comfortable chair and plan to stay up late. Highly recommended.”
— Sheldon Siegel, New York Times bestselling author“With its intriguing plot, chilling conclusion, and characters who exhibit universal and timeless feelings, this fresh first has all the potential to evolve into a series as enduring as Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael books.”
— Publishers Weekly (starred review)Be the first to write a review about this audiobook!
Priscilla Royal grew up in British Columbia, earned a degree in world literature from San Francisco State University, and worked for the federal government in various positions. She is the author of the Medieval Mystery series featuring Eleanor, prioress of Tyndal, and she is a member of the Mystery Writers of America, California Writers Club, and Sisters in Crime.
Wanda McCaddon (d. 2023) narrated well over six hundred titles for major audiobook publishers, sometimes with the pseudonym Nadia May or Donada Peters. She earned the prestigious Audio Award for best narration and numerous Earphones Awards. She was named a Golden Voice by AudioFile magazine.