William de Bulmer, no longer a monk, but still a most capable administrator, returns to St Alcuins to help the new cellarer manage the challenges of a big society wedding. But this event, fraught with difficult relationships, coincides with their regular Bishop's Visitation.

William tries to conceal his presence from Bishop Eric, who wants to bring him to justice for the grave sin of breaking his monastic vows and the felony of attempting suicide. Astute and zealous, the bishop sets out to hunt William down.

Meanwhile the arrival of Brother Conradus's mother brings problems of a completely different nature ....

As the story unfolds, a beautiful thread of loving-kindness weaves quietly through the contrasting colours of human frailty, religious zeal, and social pretension.

"For the lover of medieval mysteries, this is a series not to be missed." - Mel Starr, author of The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton

The series continues with A Day and a Life. Pen Wilcock publishes a popular blog at www.kindredofthequietway.co.uk.