In February of AD 668, Fidelma of Cashel and her companion, Eadulf, are about to get permanently married. As the sister to the king of Muman, Fidelma's marriage ceremony is a major event; the high king of Ireland as well as other kings and major figures are going to be in attendance. On the eve of the ceremony, the fanatical and much disliked Abbot Ultan is found murdered in his chamber, and one of the distinguished guests, the king of Connacht, is accused of the crime. Her wedding delayed, the highborn guests restless, and the murder and its aftermath threatening chaos, it's up to Fidelma to uncover the murderer--and the truth behind the murder itself--if the often tenuous peace of the land is to be maintained.