As usual, Alys Clare delivers a spellbinding mystery. Just starting this book will guarantee that nothing else gets done until after the last page! Don't think that Hawkenlye Abbey is cursed with a violent nun, though; the nursing sisters are still working to heal the sick and wounded. Clare's depiction of the medieval threat of disease and disaster -- as well as courage, faith, and love is heartwarming. This knowledgeable author warms the heart and cheers the spirit, instead of becoming mired in the filth, stench and violence too frequently depicted in many medieval mysteries. An excellent work!Marie L.