Irish law vs Roman ways!

Death of a Heretic (A Sister Fidelma Mystery #33) by Peter Tremayne  

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I found this story totally fascinating. I have always been drawn to the old laws of Ireland. To see the accepted tales of St Patrick’s turned on its head, to realize the way Christianity has been influenced down through the ages, is inspiring.

This seventh century story has us in Ireland with a murder—and the solving of. 

Into this mess comes Sister Fidelma of Cashel. A visit from the Frankish dignitary, Bishop Brodulf, results in disaster. The Bishop is dead, killed in a fire, and a building master has disappeared. Although this is adequately explained.

The “law is based on compensation for the victim and rehabilitation for the perpetrator.” But Fidelma and her husband Brother Eardulf of Seaxmund’s Ham, are unsure as to whether this case invokes this law or one that transcends this. After all the Bishop we are told “came here with the explicit authority of the Frankish king, Clotaire.” If the latter is the case, if “there is a whisper of a fault, then Clotaire would lose no time in demanding compensation.”

“The task of the abbey is to make sure that everything has been done that could have been done to save Bishop Brodulf from perishing in the flames. Otherwise, it might lead to a dispute involving the two kingdoms that could escalate into war.”

So much rides on a clear head and clear questions. The judgement will come, given by Fidelma, a dálaigh, investigating the death in the abbey of a visitor. 

A Severn House ARC via NetGalley.  Many thanks to the author and publisher.

Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change

(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)