As an English man displaced in France, Edgar is viewed as suspect by many, making his story of being disowned by his family and Catherine's very plausible, giving him reason to look for an apprenticeship that might lead him to information about the crimes. He never suspects that his quest might lead him directly to the criminals and put his life and that of his young wife's in danger.

When a Jewish man, known to be disreputable, falls dead on Catherine in her uncle's cellar, she decides she, too, must take an active part in the investigation and find who is adding to the discord of the Christians and the Jews in France during the Easter and Passover seasons.

Catherine’s family relationships are very complicated, and some of it goes back to earlier books (even though this is a reprint of any earlier title) and is not entirely explained. Enough background is given to help readers understand some of the tensions and fears involved in these crimes. Many of Catherine's friends and family are displeased that she left the convent to marry the English Edgar. At the same time, her sister Agnes has been caring for her mother and resents Catherine's leaving the convent and spoiling her chances for a good marriage.

Hubert, who has been baptized and is outwardly living the life of a good Christian, hides his roots and his relationship to his brother, though he is sometimes torn between the appearance he must keep up and the life he was born into. Edgar, too, is admonished for marrying Catherine and must endure barbs from many acquaintances, yet the two seem intent on their love and enjoy the life they are building.

Catherine is very smart and learned and is very quick. She is not afraid and is strong and capable and loyal to her husband and her family. Even though the story is set in twelfth century France, the characters and their feelings seem very familiar, allowing any barrier the setting might pose to quickly disappear. In many places, the dialogue is light and humorous - as many young married couples are together.

The mystery is very complex, though the culprits are fairly easy to ferret out. The methods Catherine and Edgar use to gather information provide more background and lend to the overall atmosphere of the novel. A fascinating look at the Middle Ages in France, a willful, strong heroine, and an intriguing mystery all provide an entertaining read for not only those interested in this era, but for anyone looking for an absorbing mystery.

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry