In the sixth year of Bridei's kingship, he sends his chief assassin and spy, the Gael Faolan, back home to Ireland to investigate reports of a powerful Christian cleric whose charismatic leadership may prove a threat to the stability of Bridei's pagan kingdom of Fortriu. Years ago, the action of a cruel chieftain caused the young Faolan to deal with a shattering blow to his own family, forcing him to leave home for good. Now he must return and face his demons. . .
Back in his home province of Laigin, Faolan encounters surprises on two fronts. The path his family has taken after the terrible events of the past is not the one he expected. A side trip to break the news of a brave warrior's death to his kin results in Faolan's return to Fortriu, not alone, but accompanied by a young woman for whom he has suddenly become responsible. There is no telling whether the volatile Eile is friend or foe. The only certainty is that she seems to create trouble wherever she goes . . .
'Juliet Marillier is among the most skilled of fantasy writers' Sara Douglass
- ISBN10 0765348772
- ISBN13 9780765348777
- Publish Date 4 November 2008 (first published 16 March 2007)
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 26 May 2021
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Tor Books
- Format Paperback (US Mass Market)
- Pages 625
- Language English