Anno Domini 664: Wighard of Canterbury, the future archbishop, seemingly falls victim to a robbery-murder in Rome. Ronan, an Irish monk, comes under suspicion but maintains his innocence. The case threatens to spark a war between the Anglo-Saxons and the Irish. To prevent the worst, the incorruptible Sister Fidelma is assigned to investigate. In her inquiries, Sister Fidelma uncovers the shady past of the murdered dignitary. Independent, self-assured women, tolerant and educated: they surely have always existed, even in the seventh century, before being relentlessly persecuted as witches. It is enjoyable to read this early crime novel set in the world of early Christianity. The best part of this book is Sister Fidelma - a clever, emancipated, brave woman who out-argues her opponents.