Ireland AD 671. King Colgú of Cashel is shocked to learn that his loyal Chief Bishop has been murdered in the old enemy fortress of the Uí Fidgente. When word reaches Cashel that the culprit will be executed 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 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…

Part of the The Sister Fidelma Mystery Series series.