Super sleuth Sister Fidelma returns in the twenty-fourth historical mystery by Peter Tremayne, acclaimed author of THE SEVENTH TRUMPET, THE SUBTLE SERPENT and many more.

PRAISE FOR THE SISTER FIDELMA SERIES: ''This is masterly storytelling from an author who breathes fascinating life into the world he is writing about'' Belfast Telegraph, ''The Background detail is brilliantly defined... wonderfully evocative'' The Times

Winter, 670 AD. King Colgú has invited the leading nobles and chieftains of his kingdom to a feast day. The gathering is interrupted by a religieux claiming that he has an important message for the King. Suddenly, the man, shouting ''Remember Liamuin!'' stabs King Colgú. The assassin is slain but Colgú is on the verge of death.

Who is Liamuin? It is a female name? Who is behind the assassination attempt? Colgú''s lawyer sister, Fidelma of Cashel, and her companion, Brother Eadulf are charged with solving the mystery. They must journey into the territory of their arch-enemies, the Uí Fidgente, uncover the evil secrets in the dark, brooding Abbey of Mungairit, and venture into the threatening mountain fastness ruled by a godless tyrant. Danger and violence are their constant companions until the final devastating revelation . . .

What readers are saying about ATONEMENT OF BLOOD:

''Lots of action and plenty of twists, turns and red-herrings''

''Beautifully written - beautifully realised scenes from a past that dare not be forgotten''

''Another excellent mystery with so much historical background and colour''