Due to this successful series, the author was appointed an honorary member of the Irish Literary Society. A new Celtic mystery featuring Sister Fidelma, who operates in a time when the Catholic faith of Irish-Celtic influence allowed women education, power, and influence, and when there was still no celibacy. Sister Fidelma and Brother Eadulf have recently married. However, according to ancient Irish custom, there is a trial year for this. Both are invited by a friend of Eadulf's to Aldred's Abbey. Upon their arrival, they find the friend murdered.