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Sister Fidelma #24
Atonement of Blood
Winter, 670 AD. King Colgú has invited the leading nobles and chieftains of his kingdom to a feast day. The gathering is interrupted by a religieux claiming that he has an important message for the King. Suddenly, the man, shouting 'Remember Liamuin!' stabs King Colgú. The assassin is slain but Colgú is on the verge of death.
Who is Liamuin? It is a female name? Who is behind the assassination attempt? Colgú's lawyer sister, Fidelma of Cashel, and her companion, Brother Eadulf are charged with solving the mystery. They must journey into the territory of their arch-enemies, the Uí Fidgente, uncover the evil secrets in the dark, brooding Abbey of Mungairit, and venture into the threatening mountain fastness ruled by a godless tyrant. Danger and violence are their constant companions until the final devastating revelation...
Who is Liamuin? It is a female name? Who is behind the assassination attempt? Colgú's lawyer sister, Fidelma of Cashel, and her companion, Brother Eadulf are charged with solving the mystery. They must journey into the territory of their arch-enemies, the Uí Fidgente, uncover the evil secrets in the dark, brooding Abbey of Mungairit, and venture into the threatening mountain fastness ruled by a godless tyrant. Danger and violence are their constant companions until the final devastating revelation...
368 pages, Paperback
First published July 18, 2013
29 people are currently reading
431 people want to read
About the author
Peter Tremayne
206 books476 followersPeter Berresford Ellis (born 10 March 1943) is a historian, literary biographer, and novelist who has published over 90 books to date either under his own name or his pseudonyms Peter Tremayne and Peter MacAlan. He has also published 95 short stories. His non-fiction books, articles and academic papers have made him acknowledged as an authority on Celtic history and culture. As Peter Tremayne, he is the author of the international bestselling Sister Fidelma mystery series. His work has appeared in 25 languages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
January 30, 2022
Read this book in 2013, and its the 24th volume , chronologically, of the superb "Sister Fidelma" series.
Its the Winter of the year AD 670, and on this feast day King Colgú of Muman has invited leading nobles and chieftains to attend this feast.
All of a sudden this feast is interrupted by a religieux who claims that he has an important message for King Colgú, and instead of telling the King he stabs him while shouting "Remember Liamuin", and while this assassin is slain the King is on the verge of death.
Sister Fidelma, Dalaigh of the Brehon Court of Law, and her companion, Brother Eadulf, will set off to the land of their arch-enemies, the Uí Fidgente, and over there uncover the dark secrets in the eviland brooding Abbey of Mungairit.
This mountain area is also ruled by a ruthless tyrant, and in this environment of violence and death they must do their investigations if they want to come up with the truth behind the assassination attempt on King Colgú's life.
What is to follow is an intriguing and exciting Irish mystery, in which Sister Fidelma and Brother Eadulf will get to the bottom of this case of intrigue and murder, after some hard fought twists and turns, followed by a superbly executed plot they will be able to reveal the mastermind behind this murderous action and bring this person to justice.
Highly recommended, for this is another great addition to this awesome series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Glorious Atonement Of Blood"!
Its the Winter of the year AD 670, and on this feast day King Colgú of Muman has invited leading nobles and chieftains to attend this feast.
All of a sudden this feast is interrupted by a religieux who claims that he has an important message for King Colgú, and instead of telling the King he stabs him while shouting "Remember Liamuin", and while this assassin is slain the King is on the verge of death.
Sister Fidelma, Dalaigh of the Brehon Court of Law, and her companion, Brother Eadulf, will set off to the land of their arch-enemies, the Uí Fidgente, and over there uncover the dark secrets in the eviland brooding Abbey of Mungairit.
This mountain area is also ruled by a ruthless tyrant, and in this environment of violence and death they must do their investigations if they want to come up with the truth behind the assassination attempt on King Colgú's life.
What is to follow is an intriguing and exciting Irish mystery, in which Sister Fidelma and Brother Eadulf will get to the bottom of this case of intrigue and murder, after some hard fought twists and turns, followed by a superbly executed plot they will be able to reveal the mastermind behind this murderous action and bring this person to justice.
Highly recommended, for this is another great addition to this awesome series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Glorious Atonement Of Blood"!
October 9, 2013
This is the 24th book in the Sister Fidelma series, and it is truly remarkable that this series stays as fresh and exciting as it still is. I highly recommend this series to anyone who is a fan of historical mysteries which reamain true to the period, and are well-written, well-charactered and well plotted. Mr. Tremayne is an historian of some note, and his knowledge of his era (Ancient Ireland in the First Century AD) is extensive. He is also a talented writer who creates wonderful, believable characters. His books are tightly-paced and exciting to read. This book is set in and around Sister Fidelma and her her husband Eadulf's home in Cashel. An assassin makes an attempt on Fidelma's brother's life, and while the king of Cashel lies trying to recover from his grievous wounds, Fidelma and Eadulf set out into the territory of their arch enemies, the Ui Fidgente to determine why this attempt was made. Although the Ui Fidgente is part of King Colgu's five kingdoms there is a lot of unrest and a lot of unhappy and mistrustful citizens. Not everyone in this territory is pleased with the alliance of the five kingdoms. Fidlema and Eadulf uncover a plot of sinister proprotions while they are investigating the attempted killing of her brother. As in all Fidelma books there is lots of danger, unrest, evil and violence, but Fidelma, in her inimitable fashion, purposely follows her enquiries until she gets to the truth. This remains one of my favourite historical mystery series.
November 18, 2021
More engaging than most in this series but there is still the problem with the author's insistence on characters using original language then explaining the meaning of the word in the next part of their speech. For example, ' Pass me the pepperpot, the small ceramic object with holes on the top.' I find it both distracting and irritating. Either just use the original language word and explain in a footnote or provide a glossary. Better still, let the story flow and just use the English (in my case) word! It may be less authentic but it makes for a more enjoyable read.
August 26, 2014
Fidelma's omniscience and superiority toward her husband Eadulf was more than irksome and unattractive in this latest book. I think I must have reached my saturation point. I enjoyed most of the books in this series and I suppose it could be my present mood? Don't know, but not sure I want to plunge into the next one. I guess I am unhappily giving up Fidelma after having read all books in series.
July 20, 2015
I forgot how stilted some of Tremayne's writing, especially dialogue, can be at times. His strength, however, lies in weaving a skillful and complex plot highlighted throughout by intrinsic historical details. And even after a year between this book and the last, I still love Fidelma's character. Of all the mystery series I read, for whatever reason, she is the character I can see most clearly in my mind's eye. She really comes to life for me.
I do sympathize with Eadulf and his frustrations in regards to Alchu's upbringing. I also like that two of my favorite secondary characters featured in the story. Brother Conchobhar and Conri, the Ui Fidgente warrior. It's nice to know Fidelma has one loyal friend amongst the Ui Fidgente.
And the very ending of the book was wonderful. It gives us readers something to ponder in closing. Another excellent book in the Sister Fidelma series.
I do sympathize with Eadulf and his frustrations in regards to Alchu's upbringing. I also like that two of my favorite secondary characters featured in the story. Brother Conchobhar and Conri, the Ui Fidgente warrior. It's nice to know Fidelma has one loyal friend amongst the Ui Fidgente.
And the very ending of the book was wonderful. It gives us readers something to ponder in closing. Another excellent book in the Sister Fidelma series.
December 11, 2014
For readers unfamiliar with Sister Fidelma, this book is easy to read. Although there are many references to previous adventures and mysteries, they are presented in such a way that the reader is confused. The mystery keeps the reader guessing until the end. There are just enough clues to point to any number of suspects.
The book jacket indicates that Tremayne has done considerable research into Celtic and Medieval Ireland. He certainly shows a lot of detail in his descriptions of society in 6th Century Munster. While his findings may be grounded in literature and archeology, it is a little difficult to accept the that the largely rural population of Munster was bathing each day, eating meat at least once per day, and far more civilized than most of the world at that time.
However, everything is possible. There are no magical elements or deus ex machina moments to the story. While short on action, the mystery keeps the plot going. Sister Fidelma is a bit domineering to the point of nastiness. The rest of the characters seem incidental and mostly irrelevant, including her husband and constant companion. Overall, a good and entertaining read.
The book jacket indicates that Tremayne has done considerable research into Celtic and Medieval Ireland. He certainly shows a lot of detail in his descriptions of society in 6th Century Munster. While his findings may be grounded in literature and archeology, it is a little difficult to accept the that the largely rural population of Munster was bathing each day, eating meat at least once per day, and far more civilized than most of the world at that time.
However, everything is possible. There are no magical elements or deus ex machina moments to the story. While short on action, the mystery keeps the plot going. Sister Fidelma is a bit domineering to the point of nastiness. The rest of the characters seem incidental and mostly irrelevant, including her husband and constant companion. Overall, a good and entertaining read.
December 27, 2014
Best Sr. Fidelma Yet
This volume in the Sister Fidelma mystery series is in many ways the best yet. The plot is complex and while you see the elements, you can't quite put it all together, but when Sr Fidelma does, it all makes sense. Some of the elements of previous volumes that were becoming tiresome, such as the Irish vs. Roman church issues and the conflict between Fidelma and Aedulf concerning their son, Alchu, are much more balanced. In fact, between sittings in my reading, I found myself brooding that poor little Alchu only has 4 more years before he is sent away for fosterage. His plight really engaged me. There were new elements of Ancient Irish culture involved in the story, such as there being no laws about illicit arms dealing as it was considered so immoral as to be unthinkable, that increased my delight in this story. It wad a genuinely pleasurable read!
This volume in the Sister Fidelma mystery series is in many ways the best yet. The plot is complex and while you see the elements, you can't quite put it all together, but when Sr Fidelma does, it all makes sense. Some of the elements of previous volumes that were becoming tiresome, such as the Irish vs. Roman church issues and the conflict between Fidelma and Aedulf concerning their son, Alchu, are much more balanced. In fact, between sittings in my reading, I found myself brooding that poor little Alchu only has 4 more years before he is sent away for fosterage. His plight really engaged me. There were new elements of Ancient Irish culture involved in the story, such as there being no laws about illicit arms dealing as it was considered so immoral as to be unthinkable, that increased my delight in this story. It wad a genuinely pleasurable read!
December 31, 2017
Fidelma must discover the reasons for a murderous attack on her brother. This is the 24th book in the series, which surprised me. I missed a number of them. Fortunately, these books don't require much knowledge of the series. This is a good historical mystery. Fidelma has given up her life as a religious to concentrate on her career in the law. The mystery is satisfying as a standalone. It is convoluted and there are detours along the way but the author provides all the clues. I enjoy the details of life in Ireland in the seventh century. The one thing that drives me crazy is the author's insistence on reciting Fidelma's credentials several times in each book I've read. At this point, once is enough.
June 10, 2016
A fun diversion before I start the next book for my book club. Someone tries to kill Fidelma's brother Corgú. Fidelma and Eadulf investigate. They go to an abbey but are robbed of their symbols of office. Gormán is robbed of his gold circlet and sword. At the abbey, they are almost refused entry until a visiting monk recognized them. Something is wrong. They continue their investigation and meet with a warrior and his men who came upon the robbers and return their property. The attack on Colgú was related to an uprising of the Ui Figendi 4 years earlier. Of course Fidelma solves the mystery and Colgú survived the attack. Yay
September 8, 2014
Twenty-fourth in the Sister Fidelma historical mystery series set in 670 AD Ireland and revolving around the former Sister Fidelma and her husband, Brother Eadulf.
Tremayne states that Atonement of Blood follows events in The Seventh Trumpet , 23, and begins November 24 (of our calendar).
My Take
Whew, there is no love lost between the Eóghanacht (Fidelma's people) and the Uí Fidgente in yet another tale of twisty and seemingly vague clues that Fidelma slowly pulls together into one tight knot in spite of Tremayne's many red herrings. Some of the distractions were the various people who were impersonating others or switching identities. And then, of course, the lies. Did Brother Ledbán know that the steward was also Codlata?
I'm surprised at how much faith Fidelma puts into her wand of office and the law, especially as she is continually waylaid by or wading into menacing parties as she holds strongly to her beliefs, no matter what!
Hold on a sec'… It's been, maybe, an hour since Colgú has been stabbed, and they already know there's no infection? Wow. I'm impressed. Medicine is so advanced in seventh century Ireland *eye roll*. On the plus side, events in this cause Fidelma to show her emotions as opposed to her usual cryptic exterior, although Tremayne was, sadly, too interested in the info dump in this story.
Poor Eadulf. As much as I prefer the Irish laws, there are some that tick me off for their insularity, and they don't do much to reassure foreigners, so I hope Eadulf appreciated Finguine's sharp comment. Oh, crack me up! I loved Finguine's "mild" reaction to Brehon Aillín's peevishness! In spite of the slurs cast on Finguine, ya gotta like the guy. It is a sad peek in at the foster system, and its effect on language. The concept of fosterage is a good one, but it is sad for the personal effect it has on the child's real parents. One can only imagine the effect it has on the child.
It's interesting (in a bad way) how uneducated people become so insular in their thinking. Muirgen certainly has an interesting interpretation of the Tower of Babel. I loved Eadulf's explanation to her, and it was quite prophetic.
Between the situations Fidelma plunges them into and the dire consequences that hang over too many, events in this really make me wish Fidelma or Eadulf had access to a cellphone!
Cute story about Fintan, the Salmon of Knowledge. And interesting that the Northwest Indians also saw the salmon as an important symbol.
I'm with the Uí Fidgente people from whom Fidaig extracts tribute, but surely when the Uí Fidgente come to collect, they tell them about Fidaig? Or is there some demarcation that isn't mentioned, that each side is aware of and so they don't try to double up on their tributes?
It is fascinating to "watch" as Fidelma puts these clues together, especially when it seems such an impossibility. And Tremayne does a beautiful job of providing lots of side information on Irish culture of the time.
The Story
An unexpected attack during a feast sends Fidelma and Eadulf cantering off to learn the why behind this attempted assassination. It’s a trip that will uncover many wrongs with too many people painting the Eóghanacht with a tarred brush even as Fidelma plunges them over and over into potential death traps.
The Characters
The Eóghanacht
Fidelma (she chose to give up being a religeuse in The Chalice of Blood , 21) is still a dálaigh, her brother, the king's, personal adviser, and has returned to being a Princess of the Eóghanacht. She's still married to Brother Eadulf, an Angle from England, and they have a son, the undiplomatic Alchú. Fidelma's horse is named Aonbharr.
Colgú is King of Muman, the largest and most southwesterly of the Five Kingdoms of Éireann. His capital is in Cashel. Finguine is Colgú and Fidelma's cousin and Colgú's heir apparent, his tánaiste. Áedo is the chief brehon of the kingdom; Aillín is his deputy.
Servants for the king, Fidelma…
Beccan is the steward of the palace, the rechtaire. Brother Conchobhar is physician and apothecary for the royal family with a side interest in astrology. He gives Eadulf religious authority of his own. Dar Luga serves as housekeeper of the palace, airnbertach. Muirgen is Alchú's nurse; Nessán is her husband who works as a shepherd. Spelán is another shepherd worried about one of his flock.
The Nasc Niadh or Golden Collars, are the King's guards
Caol is in command of the king's bodyguards. Gormán is one of the king's guards who has traveled before with Fidelma and Eadulf. Luan sent the religieux in to the feast. Enda, Dego, and Aidan are more of the elite warriors. Uisnech, Prince of the Eóganacht Áine was in command of the troops charged with keeping the peace in the land of the Uí Fidgente until Prince Donennach accepted Colgú as the rightful king. Only, Uisnech nursed too great a hatred for them.
Della is Gormá's mother. Ordan of Rathordan is a smarmy merchant. Aona, a retired Nasc Niadh is now a tavern-keeper at the Well of Aorna; his son is Adag.
The land of the Ui Fidgente
Four years ago, a battle between the Ui Fidgente and the Eóghanacht when Prince Eoghanán rebelled against Colgú resulted in Prince Donennach coming under Colgú's rule. Donennach's principal fortress is Dún Eochair Mháigh. Donennach and their local brehon, Uallach, has gone to Tara to see the new High King, Cenn Fáelad. Erce is Donennach's tánaiste. Cuana is steward to Donennach. Ciarnat is a maid in the fortress.
Socht forces Fidelma and her party to the fortress of Ath Dara (the Ford of the Oaks) at arrowpoint. Lord Conrí is war chieftain for the Uí Fidgente. Brother Adamrae is a Penitential who hasn't enough legal training, isn't very faithful, and is much too arrogant as he attempts to impose Penitential laws that are contrary to the laws of the country. Brother Cronan is the religieux who usually serves Dún Eochair Mháigh. Lachtine is their apothecary; he came from Menma's area.
Eoghanán's twin sons, Torcán and Lorcán, were also reported killed.
The abbey of Mungairit
Abbot Nannid is a sour-faced man and the uncle of Prince Donennach. He also has a small shrine of sharp and shiny weapons dedicated to the Uí Fidgente. Brother Lugna is the master of stables. Brother Cuineáin is the abbey steward seen as unfairly promoted by other brethren, supposedly for his previous experience in administration, a skill which exceeds his Faith, and there are conflicting stories about his background. He did show up at the abbey shortly after the Battle of Cnoc Áine. Brother Cú-Mara is on an errand from the abbey of Ard Fhearta where he is a steward. He knows Fidelma from Master of Souls , 16. Brother Ledbán is very old and used to work in Codlata's (nephew and steward to Prince Eoghanán) stables. He's also the father of Liamuin and Lennán. Brother Lennán was the brother who practiced medicine and was killed at the Battle of Cnoc Áine, four years ago; he's also the assassin. Maolán was a scribe here.
Liamuin was a beautiful woman loved by most men who saw her. Aibell is her daughter and a young runaway whose abusive father, Escmug, a fisherman, sold her into bondage. Marban, the millwright, was Escmug's brother. Caol was the Cashel warrior stationed at Menma's. Menma was a bó-aire with high morals. Suanach was the only survivor of the massacre at Menma's rath. Flannait and Cadan, a couple who farmed nearby, came to Suanach's rescue.
Failinis is the farmer's, Temnén's, hound. Temnén had been a bó-aire, a young noble, who fought at Cnoc Áine. Órla was the wife who was murdered.
Sitae is the innkeeper at the Ford of the Oaks.
The land of the Luachra
Fidaig is lord of the Luachra who remained neutral in the war. Artgal is Fidaig's son and tánaiste. Gláed is his youngest and the least dutiful. Loeg is one of his warriors with an issue against Artgal.
Colmá mac Lénine is a poet and a churchman whose services to the faith and his poetry are celebrated as a holy day. He established an abbey at Cluain Uamha. He also discovered where Ailbe, a priest who brought the Faith to Éireann, was buried.
A brehon is a judge while a dálaigh is a lawyer. A rath can be a variety of things: chattel, goods, property used as collateral, a person's fortress, the wall surrounding a chieftain's residence. A bó-aire is a cow lord.
The Cover
The cover is a beautiful teal blue with Celtic knots forming borders on the left and right as well as framing a square inset picture of important symbols within Atonement of Blood. The title and author’s name are brightly subtle in a hammered gold gothic font.
The title refers to a number of characters who seek or must provide an Atonement of Blood for their sins.
Tremayne states that Atonement of Blood follows events in The Seventh Trumpet , 23, and begins November 24 (of our calendar).
My Take
Whew, there is no love lost between the Eóghanacht (Fidelma's people) and the Uí Fidgente in yet another tale of twisty and seemingly vague clues that Fidelma slowly pulls together into one tight knot in spite of Tremayne's many red herrings. Some of the distractions were the various people who were impersonating others or switching identities. And then, of course, the lies. Did Brother Ledbán know that the steward was also Codlata?
I'm surprised at how much faith Fidelma puts into her wand of office and the law, especially as she is continually waylaid by or wading into menacing parties as she holds strongly to her beliefs, no matter what!
Hold on a sec'… It's been, maybe, an hour since Colgú has been stabbed, and they already know there's no infection? Wow. I'm impressed. Medicine is so advanced in seventh century Ireland *eye roll*. On the plus side, events in this cause Fidelma to show her emotions as opposed to her usual cryptic exterior, although Tremayne was, sadly, too interested in the info dump in this story.
Poor Eadulf. As much as I prefer the Irish laws, there are some that tick me off for their insularity, and they don't do much to reassure foreigners, so I hope Eadulf appreciated Finguine's sharp comment. Oh, crack me up! I loved Finguine's "mild" reaction to Brehon Aillín's peevishness! In spite of the slurs cast on Finguine, ya gotta like the guy. It is a sad peek in at the foster system, and its effect on language. The concept of fosterage is a good one, but it is sad for the personal effect it has on the child's real parents. One can only imagine the effect it has on the child.
It's interesting (in a bad way) how uneducated people become so insular in their thinking. Muirgen certainly has an interesting interpretation of the Tower of Babel. I loved Eadulf's explanation to her, and it was quite prophetic.
I love it!
"…rules are only for the obedience of fools but the guidance of wise men."
Between the situations Fidelma plunges them into and the dire consequences that hang over too many, events in this really make me wish Fidelma or Eadulf had access to a cellphone!
Cute story about Fintan, the Salmon of Knowledge. And interesting that the Northwest Indians also saw the salmon as an important symbol.
I'm with the Uí Fidgente people from whom Fidaig extracts tribute, but surely when the Uí Fidgente come to collect, they tell them about Fidaig? Or is there some demarcation that isn't mentioned, that each side is aware of and so they don't try to double up on their tributes?
It is fascinating to "watch" as Fidelma puts these clues together, especially when it seems such an impossibility. And Tremayne does a beautiful job of providing lots of side information on Irish culture of the time.
The Story
An unexpected attack during a feast sends Fidelma and Eadulf cantering off to learn the why behind this attempted assassination. It’s a trip that will uncover many wrongs with too many people painting the Eóghanacht with a tarred brush even as Fidelma plunges them over and over into potential death traps.
The Characters
The Eóghanacht
Fidelma (she chose to give up being a religeuse in The Chalice of Blood , 21) is still a dálaigh, her brother, the king's, personal adviser, and has returned to being a Princess of the Eóghanacht. She's still married to Brother Eadulf, an Angle from England, and they have a son, the undiplomatic Alchú. Fidelma's horse is named Aonbharr.
Colgú is King of Muman, the largest and most southwesterly of the Five Kingdoms of Éireann. His capital is in Cashel. Finguine is Colgú and Fidelma's cousin and Colgú's heir apparent, his tánaiste. Áedo is the chief brehon of the kingdom; Aillín is his deputy.
Servants for the king, Fidelma…
Beccan is the steward of the palace, the rechtaire. Brother Conchobhar is physician and apothecary for the royal family with a side interest in astrology. He gives Eadulf religious authority of his own. Dar Luga serves as housekeeper of the palace, airnbertach. Muirgen is Alchú's nurse; Nessán is her husband who works as a shepherd. Spelán is another shepherd worried about one of his flock.
The Nasc Niadh or Golden Collars, are the King's guards
Caol is in command of the king's bodyguards. Gormán is one of the king's guards who has traveled before with Fidelma and Eadulf. Luan sent the religieux in to the feast. Enda, Dego, and Aidan are more of the elite warriors. Uisnech, Prince of the Eóganacht Áine was in command of the troops charged with keeping the peace in the land of the Uí Fidgente until Prince Donennach accepted Colgú as the rightful king. Only, Uisnech nursed too great a hatred for them.
Della is Gormá's mother. Ordan of Rathordan is a smarmy merchant. Aona, a retired Nasc Niadh is now a tavern-keeper at the Well of Aorna; his son is Adag.
The land of the Ui Fidgente
Four years ago, a battle between the Ui Fidgente and the Eóghanacht when Prince Eoghanán rebelled against Colgú resulted in Prince Donennach coming under Colgú's rule. Donennach's principal fortress is Dún Eochair Mháigh. Donennach and their local brehon, Uallach, has gone to Tara to see the new High King, Cenn Fáelad. Erce is Donennach's tánaiste. Cuana is steward to Donennach. Ciarnat is a maid in the fortress.
Socht forces Fidelma and her party to the fortress of Ath Dara (the Ford of the Oaks) at arrowpoint. Lord Conrí is war chieftain for the Uí Fidgente. Brother Adamrae is a Penitential who hasn't enough legal training, isn't very faithful, and is much too arrogant as he attempts to impose Penitential laws that are contrary to the laws of the country. Brother Cronan is the religieux who usually serves Dún Eochair Mháigh. Lachtine is their apothecary; he came from Menma's area.
Eoghanán's twin sons, Torcán and Lorcán, were also reported killed.
The abbey of Mungairit
Abbot Nannid is a sour-faced man and the uncle of Prince Donennach. He also has a small shrine of sharp and shiny weapons dedicated to the Uí Fidgente. Brother Lugna is the master of stables. Brother Cuineáin is the abbey steward seen as unfairly promoted by other brethren, supposedly for his previous experience in administration, a skill which exceeds his Faith, and there are conflicting stories about his background. He did show up at the abbey shortly after the Battle of Cnoc Áine. Brother Cú-Mara is on an errand from the abbey of Ard Fhearta where he is a steward. He knows Fidelma from Master of Souls , 16. Brother Ledbán is very old and used to work in Codlata's (nephew and steward to Prince Eoghanán) stables. He's also the father of Liamuin and Lennán. Brother Lennán was the brother who practiced medicine and was killed at the Battle of Cnoc Áine, four years ago; he's also the assassin. Maolán was a scribe here.
Liamuin was a beautiful woman loved by most men who saw her. Aibell is her daughter and a young runaway whose abusive father, Escmug, a fisherman, sold her into bondage. Marban, the millwright, was Escmug's brother. Caol was the Cashel warrior stationed at Menma's. Menma was a bó-aire with high morals. Suanach was the only survivor of the massacre at Menma's rath. Flannait and Cadan, a couple who farmed nearby, came to Suanach's rescue.
Failinis is the farmer's, Temnén's, hound. Temnén had been a bó-aire, a young noble, who fought at Cnoc Áine. Órla was the wife who was murdered.
Sitae is the innkeeper at the Ford of the Oaks.
The land of the Luachra
Fidaig is lord of the Luachra who remained neutral in the war. Artgal is Fidaig's son and tánaiste. Gláed is his youngest and the least dutiful. Loeg is one of his warriors with an issue against Artgal.
Colmá mac Lénine is a poet and a churchman whose services to the faith and his poetry are celebrated as a holy day. He established an abbey at Cluain Uamha. He also discovered where Ailbe, a priest who brought the Faith to Éireann, was buried.
A brehon is a judge while a dálaigh is a lawyer. A rath can be a variety of things: chattel, goods, property used as collateral, a person's fortress, the wall surrounding a chieftain's residence. A bó-aire is a cow lord.
The Cover
The cover is a beautiful teal blue with Celtic knots forming borders on the left and right as well as framing a square inset picture of important symbols within Atonement of Blood. The title and author’s name are brightly subtle in a hammered gold gothic font.
The title refers to a number of characters who seek or must provide an Atonement of Blood for their sins.
November 16, 2020
As one of the characters in this book says, Sister Fidelma will always be thought of as a religious even though she has left the convent to take her place as a Princess of Cashel. One thing that Fidelma has not left behind is her sense of righteousness and her firm belief in the supremacy of the law. That belief allows her to enter into situations that would confound lesser mortals if not frighten them off altogether. This story begins with an attempted assassination of Fidelma's brother, King Colgu. The assassin is killed, crying "Remember Liamuin" as he plunges his knife severely wounding the king. The man is dressed as a monk who claimed to have an important message for the king from a local abbot. Since no one knows anything about Liamuin and it appears that the monk was not really a monk, Fidelma and her husband Brother Eadulf decide to investigate. Eadulf is hesitant because the investigation will take them into the territory of the Ui Fidgente, a rival clan with whom there exists an uneasy peace.
Fidelma, Eadulf, and Gorman, a warrior of the King's Bodyguard, soon discover that the monk was in disguise when they find his horse and clothing in a woodsman's shelter nearby. They also discover a young girl who knows nothing about the attack on the king and claims to have escaped from servanthood with a local chieftain. She is brought back to Cashel until her story can be unraveled. Fidelma and company then head off to the abbey from where the "monk" claimed to be. After stopping for the night, they are robbed of their weapons and valuables by a group of brigands. They manage to recover their horses and arrive at the abbey with no way of proving their identity which leads to a very cold reception until a visiting monk from another abbey vouches for them. The mystery deepens when they discover that the "monk" was using the identity of a monk of the abbey who was killed in the rebellion against Cashel. His father, who had also become a monk, dies that very evening before Fidelma could finish questioning him. As they continue their travels, they discover more answers which leads to more questions. Eventually, Fidelma will put it all together but not without a certain amount of peril for her and her companions. It seems to me that this story has more than a usual complement of twists and turns.
Peter Tremayne, the alter-ego of Peter Berresford Ellis, is essentially a teacher and he cannot resist adding a bit of education to his stories. In Sister Fidelma, he has created the perfect character to teach about ancient Ireland and early Celtic culture. He writes of a time when Ireland was new to the Catholic Faith, a faith that was distinctively different from that of Rome. Those changes would come in time, but I think Fidelma would lament the loss of the ancestral customs. We tend to think that everything has always been the way we experience it now. Peter Tremayne helps us to see that there are other ways that once worked, and perhaps could work again.
Fidelma, Eadulf, and Gorman, a warrior of the King's Bodyguard, soon discover that the monk was in disguise when they find his horse and clothing in a woodsman's shelter nearby. They also discover a young girl who knows nothing about the attack on the king and claims to have escaped from servanthood with a local chieftain. She is brought back to Cashel until her story can be unraveled. Fidelma and company then head off to the abbey from where the "monk" claimed to be. After stopping for the night, they are robbed of their weapons and valuables by a group of brigands. They manage to recover their horses and arrive at the abbey with no way of proving their identity which leads to a very cold reception until a visiting monk from another abbey vouches for them. The mystery deepens when they discover that the "monk" was using the identity of a monk of the abbey who was killed in the rebellion against Cashel. His father, who had also become a monk, dies that very evening before Fidelma could finish questioning him. As they continue their travels, they discover more answers which leads to more questions. Eventually, Fidelma will put it all together but not without a certain amount of peril for her and her companions. It seems to me that this story has more than a usual complement of twists and turns.
Peter Tremayne, the alter-ego of Peter Berresford Ellis, is essentially a teacher and he cannot resist adding a bit of education to his stories. In Sister Fidelma, he has created the perfect character to teach about ancient Ireland and early Celtic culture. He writes of a time when Ireland was new to the Catholic Faith, a faith that was distinctively different from that of Rome. Those changes would come in time, but I think Fidelma would lament the loss of the ancestral customs. We tend to think that everything has always been the way we experience it now. Peter Tremayne helps us to see that there are other ways that once worked, and perhaps could work again.
January 6, 2023
Book 53 - Peter Tremayne - Atonement of Blood - A Sister Fidelma Mystery
I am in a work reading group...as I hit book 53 that may not surprise you....it surprised me...not normally my thing. I tell you this because one of the group suggested I try the Sister Fidelma mysteries. A series of books set in 7th century Ireland about, of all things, a ‘detective’ nun...and you know what ?
It is really good...brilliantly written with astonishingly accurate characters and impeccable research that brings the whole era to life. This one is number 24 in a series that is still going strong.
Did I need to know much about the history or language ? No as there is a brilliant summary and glossary at the beginning that introduces the main characters.
As for the story...when the King of the province is badly wounded it is up to Fidelma to sort through the clues and red herrings to not only find the motivation for the attempted assassination but also to stop what could become all out war between the peoples of the region.
I get the feeling I will be returning to the Five Kingdoms of Eireann to see where the characters came from and where they go next...super easy to follow story of a true bygone age. Loved it
I am in a work reading group...as I hit book 53 that may not surprise you....it surprised me...not normally my thing. I tell you this because one of the group suggested I try the Sister Fidelma mysteries. A series of books set in 7th century Ireland about, of all things, a ‘detective’ nun...and you know what ?
It is really good...brilliantly written with astonishingly accurate characters and impeccable research that brings the whole era to life. This one is number 24 in a series that is still going strong.
Did I need to know much about the history or language ? No as there is a brilliant summary and glossary at the beginning that introduces the main characters.
As for the story...when the King of the province is badly wounded it is up to Fidelma to sort through the clues and red herrings to not only find the motivation for the attempted assassination but also to stop what could become all out war between the peoples of the region.
I get the feeling I will be returning to the Five Kingdoms of Eireann to see where the characters came from and where they go next...super easy to follow story of a true bygone age. Loved it
August 30, 2023
Dies ist eine Geschichte mit vielen Wendungen, Spuren, Irrungen und Wirrungen. Sehr spannend geschrieben mit vielen Gefahren für unser Ermittler-Paar, und das schon relativ am Beginn der Story. Somit begann der Spannungsbogen schon relativ früh und hielt sich konstant durch das gesamte Buch.
Wunderschön wieder das Cover, passend zu den vorangegangenen Büchern. Und wer sich für Irland, seine Geschichte und vor allem die Fortschrittlichkeit dieser Insel begeistern kann, der kommt auch bei Band 24 wieder voll auf seine Kosten.
Die beiden Hauptfiguren entwickeln sich weiter. Mir ist vor allem aufgefallen, dass sich Fidelma besser im Griff hat und sogar einlenken kann.
Da man bei den vielen gälischen Namen, die uns alles andere als geläufig sind, leicht durcheinanderkommen kann, ist die Aufstellung der mitwirkenden Personen sehr hilfreich.
Mir hat das Buch wieder sehr gut gefallen. Ich gebe 92/100 bzw. 09/10 Punkte und freue mich schon auf Band 25, dann via Skoobe.
https://sunsys-blog.blogspot.com/2023...
Wunderschön wieder das Cover, passend zu den vorangegangenen Büchern. Und wer sich für Irland, seine Geschichte und vor allem die Fortschrittlichkeit dieser Insel begeistern kann, der kommt auch bei Band 24 wieder voll auf seine Kosten.
Die beiden Hauptfiguren entwickeln sich weiter. Mir ist vor allem aufgefallen, dass sich Fidelma besser im Griff hat und sogar einlenken kann.
Da man bei den vielen gälischen Namen, die uns alles andere als geläufig sind, leicht durcheinanderkommen kann, ist die Aufstellung der mitwirkenden Personen sehr hilfreich.
Mir hat das Buch wieder sehr gut gefallen. Ich gebe 92/100 bzw. 09/10 Punkte und freue mich schon auf Band 25, dann via Skoobe.
https://sunsys-blog.blogspot.com/2023...
November 6, 2018
There is a banquet with so many important people dining with the king of Cashel!
Disturbance--- who is this stranger?
What is the personal message that this messenger has for the king?
What is the excuse of the attempted murder of the king?
Where will Fidelma and her husband end up at?
Will the enemy hinder or help when they find out that there has been an attempt on the kings life?
Will there be "jockeying" for the kingship of Cashel?
Hmmm, what will happen and how far will Fidelma have to go into enemy country?
Will her troop be able to regain the emblems of office that shows her authority for the investigation of the attempted murder of the king her brother?
Love this one as well as of all of this series so far.
Disturbance--- who is this stranger?
What is the personal message that this messenger has for the king?
What is the excuse of the attempted murder of the king?
Where will Fidelma and her husband end up at?
Will the enemy hinder or help when they find out that there has been an attempt on the kings life?
Will there be "jockeying" for the kingship of Cashel?
Hmmm, what will happen and how far will Fidelma have to go into enemy country?
Will her troop be able to regain the emblems of office that shows her authority for the investigation of the attempted murder of the king her brother?
Love this one as well as of all of this series so far.
December 13, 2024
This volume is among one of the best in the series, with a deeper back story than usual, building on the Battle of Cnoc Áine – which the faithful reader would already be familiar with. While the writing is still far from grandiose literature (Sister Fidelma books quite easy to read), and characters do lack depth (at this point, I have just accepted that), this book has fewer Fidelmaisms, and the usual backdrop of enmity with the Uí Fidgente, mixed with the intricate murder mystery, is quite enjoyable.
The various characters encountered along the way feel less of caricatures than usual (typically, they would be all good or all bad, and look the part).
Easy on the head, entertaining, and that little bit less Fidelmaic than previous volumes.
The various characters encountered along the way feel less of caricatures than usual (typically, they would be all good or all bad, and look the part).
Easy on the head, entertaining, and that little bit less Fidelmaic than previous volumes.
March 17, 2021
Having cast my eyes back into the world of Sister Fidelma with Behold a Pale Horse, I returned to the earlier part of the series to find Sister Fidelma shocked by a near-fatal attack on her brother, heir-presumptive to the throne of Colgu, and by a visiting religious no less. Who would do such a thing and why? She and Eadulf set out toward the land of their enemies the Ui Fidgente to resolve these questions. Twists and turns, friends who are not friends, enemies who are truer than friends all combine for a real puzzler. Of red herrings, there are many. Enjoy the ride with this engrossing test of logic.
October 4, 2017
Another enjoyable story featuring Sister Fidelma and Brother Eadulf, but still with the same quibbles - constant repetition of what we already know. No glossary of pronunciation of Celtic words, and the use of those words all the way through the book, immediately followed by the English translation - especially in speech. This annoys me, because theoretically, the entire dialogue is spoken in Gaelic so why would the protagonists repeat the same word twice? Just use the English word and stop trying to wow the reader with the author's grasp of the language!
September 9, 2017
Having started this series somewhere in the middle-end, I was a little worried I would not understand what was going on. Not to worry, the author's attention to detail is such that this was no problem, although I will be looking for the first books now, in an effort to actually understand the tale in order. A good read. Some of the legal detail thrown in was a bit much, but on the whole a fascinating read.
July 26, 2018
This story line makes me wonder how long it will be until Fidelma is killed. I think her reputation for being fair to all, both supposed enemies and friends often saves her, but she walks a fine line. There was one man in this story who would have gladly killed her. Knowing the times and the greed of power that many carried with them, I would expect to see her gone, but not for a few more books....she is just too close to danger too often to fade away quietly and age gracefully.
September 5, 2021
I'm sort of getting into the Fidelma mysteries. This was also a nice one, and the celtic setting is quite interesting. At the same time, they are a bit slow, I think most 400 page books with Fidelma would be better if they were 250 page books, and I still don't really love her character, like she does not really seam to love her Watson and Husband, Eadulf. Somewhat stilted here and there. If its a race with Cadfael, the Welsh are winning.
September 27, 2021
One of the more long winded murder mysteries. This had quite a few threads that seemed to lead into several directions without actually making sense. I wasn't sure we were going to get to the point of the story. I have noticed that the prologue was dropped, that was a relief. Got old leafing through that every book. 10 currently left in the series. Unlikely to be caught up anytime soon.
March 3, 2025
Besides the detailed history of ancient Ireland and its laws, the story is told of the attempt on the life of the king, Colgu. The king’s sister is our protagonist, Fidelma who is a black-and-white dalaigh seeing no shades of gray. The time period is more interesting because of the heightened place that women have in daily life with far more rights and abilities than some of modern times.
July 23, 2025
K Fidelmě jsem se vrátila po delší době a evidentně mě několik knížek minulo, protože události se dost pohnuli dopředu a i život Fidelmy a Eadulfa. Ale návrat to byl příjemný. Jako vždycky jsem měla ze začátku malinko problém si pamatovat kdo je kdo, těch jmen je docela dost. Ale potom už to bylo lepší. A knížka se mi opravdu líbila. Děj není zbytečně natahovaný, ale zároveň ani není úplně jednoduchý. Čtenář se dočká celé řady zvratů a překvapení. Děj je velmi dobře propojený s nedávnou minulostí, ale ta je v tomto případě relevatní a dějově se týká příběhu v knížce.
Zajímavý je i pohled do raně středověkého Irska, a jeho zákonů v době, kdy probíhala kristianizace, ale staré zvyky a zákony často ještě platily. Fidelma by nejspíše o pár století později nemohla vůbec existovat, nebylo by to možné.
Celkově knížka se mi velmi líbila. A užila jsem si ji a určitě se plánuju k sérii ještě vrátit.
Zajímavý je i pohled do raně středověkého Irska, a jeho zákonů v době, kdy probíhala kristianizace, ale staré zvyky a zákony často ještě platily. Fidelma by nejspíše o pár století později nemohla vůbec existovat, nebylo by to možné.
Celkově knížka se mi velmi líbila. A užila jsem si ji a určitě se plánuju k sérii ještě vrátit.
July 13, 2018
The plots on the last several books keep getting better and more intricate. The biggest mystery of all however is why Fidelma and Eadulf stay together. The only thing I can think of is that Eadulf is into femdom type relationships.
February 15, 2019
Number 24 of the series, plus the books of stories, and I can't wait to start the next of Fidelma's adventures. Engrossing historical fiction. Superb writing. Exciting adventures. And wonderful characters. I love these books!
April 20, 2019
Good Story i was kept enthralled throughout often stayed up late not able to put it down
oved the way all threads where brought together at the end. Have read many books by Peter Tremayne and look forward to reading more
oved the way all threads where brought together at the end. Have read many books by Peter Tremayne and look forward to reading more
December 4, 2022
Five stars - highest rating
Even among the fine books of the "Fidelma" series this is a stand-out performance by the author. A complicated story with a cast of unique characters combine to become a cracking good mystery, indeed one of the author's very best.
Even among the fine books of the "Fidelma" series this is a stand-out performance by the author. A complicated story with a cast of unique characters combine to become a cracking good mystery, indeed one of the author's very best.
November 14, 2025
while I like the stories, they seem to be more and more alike. An original murder followed by treason and other conspiracies and a cold case murder. The solution though only comes in the final 2 chapters.
In this story, the lead conspirator isn't disclosed until the 2nd to last chapter.
In this story, the lead conspirator isn't disclosed until the 2nd to last chapter.
June 18, 2018
My favorite in the series to date.
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