In the year of our Lord 1141, two monks ride into the Benedictine abbey of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, bringing with them disturbing news of war--and a mystery. The strangers tell how the strife between the Empress Maud and King Stephen has destroyed the town of Winchester and their priory. Now Brother Humilis, who is handsome, gaunt, and very ill, and Brother Fidelis, youthful, comely, and totally mute, must seek refuge at Shrewsbury. And from the moment he meets them, Brother Cadfael senses something deeper than their common vows binds these two good brothers. What the link is he can only guess--what it will lead to is beyond his imagining. But as Brother Humilis' health fails, Brother Cadfael faces a poignant test of his discretion and his beliefs as he unravels a secret so great it can destroy a life, a future, and a holy order. This delightful blend of suspense and historical fiction is, indeed, an excellent mystery. "Absorbing, superbly crafted...Unflagging tension which builds to a swift, satisfying climax...Peters never disappoints." -- "Kirkus Reviews" "A pleasing and unusual mixture of suspence and historical fiction." -- "Evening Standard" "As usual, Miss Peters creates her magic, resurrecting a long-gone age and its people for our delight." -- "Washington Times" Ellis Peters (1913-1995) was the pen name of English novelist Edith Pargeter, author of scores of books under her own name. She was a recipient of the Silver Dagger Award and the Cartier Diamond Dagger Award, conferred by the Crime Writers' Association of Great Britain, as well as the coveted Edgar Award, given by the Mystery Writers of America. Roe Kendall (a.k.a. Vanessa Benjamin), a native of the British Isles, graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, London. She has performed on stage, as a voice-over artist, and as an audiobook narrator.