The Subtle Serpent (Sister Fidelma Mysteries Book 4)

In the fourth book of the Sister Fidelma series, a headless corpse and a vanished ship lead to a gripping investigation filled with suspense and intrigue.

In The Subtle Serpent, the fourth installment of Peter Tremayne's acclaimed Sister Fidelma series, readers are introduced to a chilling mystery set in 7th-century Ireland. The story begins with a gruesome discovery: a headless female corpse found in the drinking well of a remote abbey, clutching a crucifix in one hand while a pagan death symbol is tied to the other. This macabre scene sets the stage for a tale filled with intrigue, danger, and the complexities of the era's societal norms.

As Sister Fidelma, an advocate of the Brehon law courts, delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a series of bizarre occurrences, including the mysterious disappearance of a merchant ship and its crew off the Irish coast. The narrative weaves together elements of suspense and historical detail, challenging Fidelma to connect the dots between the body in the well and the vanished ship. With a plethora of enigmatic suspects and a trail of clues, she must navigate through the treacherous waters of both human nature and ancient beliefs.

Readers are drawn into a richly crafted world where the past comes alive, and the stakes are high. The Subtle Serpent not only offers a gripping mystery but also provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of old Ireland, showcasing Tremayne's masterful storytelling and ability to breathe life into historical narratives.