First published 2009
Fire ravages Glastonbury Abbey in 1176, revealing two ancient skeletons buried beneath the holy ground. The remains belong to a tall man and woman, sparking whispers that King Arthur and Guinevere have been found at last. King Henry II desperately needs this proof. Welsh rebels invoke Arthur's name as they rise against English rule, believing their legendary king will return to save them. Henry summons Adelia Aguilar, the skilled Mistress of the Art of Death, to examine the bones and settle the matter. Adelia welcomes the royal command. Her medical abilities have drawn dangerous accusations of witchcraft in Cambridge, forcing her to flee with her household. At Glastonbury, she must work under Church supervision, specifically the Bishop of St. Albans. This creates an unexpected complication: the bishop fathered Adelia's daughter. As Adelia studies the mysterious remains, she faces political pressure from the crown, religious authority from the Church, and personal tension from her past.
Genres: historical, historical-fiction, mystery, thriller
Vibes: atmospheric, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: family-drama, past-secrets, political-intrigue
Setting: Glastonbury Abbey, Cambridge, St. Albans
Period: 1176
336 pages · Hardcover · Putnam Adult