"Fascinating...crisp, evocative writing.... The tapestry here is rich
and varied." --CLEVELAND PLAIN DEALER
Late spring in the year of our Lord 1370, and Owen Archer is anxious to
leave Wales for home. His mission for the Duke of Lancaster complete, he
attempts to arrange safe passage on a ship sailing for England, but the
hanging of a stonemason interrupts his plans. On the surface it appears
the young man was driven to suicide by a broken heart, but to Owen the
signs all point to murder. As his investigation stretches on, however,
Owen finds himself drawn into the influence of the leader of a Welsh
rebellion whose manifesto speaks to his heart, and a choice is offered
to him: join or die.
Meanwhile, at home in York, Owen's wife Lucie is troubled by rumors that
her husband's long absence is permanent, as well as threats by a
customer who claims she was poisoned by a physic from the Wilton
apothecary. Meanwhile, Lucie is tempted by the attentions of a friend's
steward, even as she uncovers a shattering betrayal in her own
household.