Hemlock at Vespers - (Mysteries of Ancient Ireland) by Peter Tremayne (Paperback)

About the Book

In the year 666, Sister Fidelma goes to a remote valley whose inhabitants still adhere to ancient Druidic ways. As they approach the valley, Fidelma and her companion come across the bodies of 33 young men ritually killed and laid out in a Druidic pattern. Are these murders the work of the local pagans or something more sinister?

Book Synopsis

Sister Fidelma-an Eognacht princess and sister to the king of Cashel, a religieuse of the Celtic Church and an advocate of the Brehornn court-is one of the most interesting and compelling figures in contemporary mystery fiction. In this collection of short mysteries, Tremayne fills in many of the background details of Fidelma and seventh-century Ireland not found in the novels, and weaves his always-beguiling mix of history and mystery.

Review Quotes

"A treat for history buffs who devoured Thomas Cahill's How the Irish Saved Civilization and historical mystery fans who appreciate strong and intelligent female protagonists." --Booklist on The Subtle Serpent

"Tremayne's heroine is gutsy. She is funny. As she outwits the dull-witted and silences the foolish with a quick comment, the reader is inclined to murmur 'Bravo!' The Spider's Web is the fifth book in the series. We can only hope there will be a dozen more." --Tampa Bay Tribune

"In the simultaneously sharp-tongued and full, womanly figure of Sister Fidelma, Tremayne has created a heroine whom many readers will willingly follow. Even Brother Cadfael might have tolerated her." --Kirkus Reviews on Absolution by Murder

About the Author

PETER TREMAYNE is a pseudonym of Peter Berresford Ellis, a renowned scholar who has written extensively on the ancient Celts and the Irish. As Tremayne, he is best known for mysteries of Ancient Ireland featuring Sister Fidelma of Cashel, beginning with Absolution by Murder. He lives in London.