Book excerpt: Sister Fidelma returns in the twenty-seventh 7th-century Irish mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of THE DEVIL'S SEAL and THE SECOND DEATH. If you love Ellis Peters you will be gripped by this novel. PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: 'Rich helpings of evil and tension with lively and varied characters' Historical Novels Review, 'The detail of the books is fascinating, giving us a vivid picture of everyday life at this time' Irish Examiner Ireland, AD 671. King Colgú of Cashel is shocked to learn that his loyal Chief Bishop and advisor has been murdered in the old enemy fortress of the Uí Fidgente. When word reaches Cashel that the culprit will be executed under new law, a larger conflict threatens. Dispatched to investigate, Sister Fidelma and her companion Eadulf discover that the man facing punishment is Gormán - commander of the King's bodyguard. But Fidelma cannot believe Gormán would carry out such an act - and yet he was found locked in a chamber with the body, weapon in hand. The evidence is stacked against him. If they are to save Gormán and keep the peace between the kingdoms, Fidelma and Eadulf must find the true culprit. As the threat of war looms, the date of execution draws ever closer . . . What readers are saying about PENANCE OF THE DAMNED: 'Within this marvellous mystery, all the characters come vividly to life. Story-telling is of top-notch quality, because the author keeps you spellbound right until the end' 'Exciting plot, great characters and a fascinating insight into the sophistication and wisdom of the law and society of ancient Ireland' 'A must-read for anyone looking for a good mystery'