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Pagans tackle the Knights of St John with terrible consequences in the new medieval thriller by Queen of the Dark Ages, Karen Maitland. Set on the wilds of Dartmoor, this is a ghostly tale for fans of The Essex Serpent, C. J. Sansom’s Shardlake series and The Burning Chambers by Kate Mosse.

‘A dark read… fear and hysteria are portrayed with claustrophobic skill’ The Times on THE PLAGUE CHARMER

1316. On the wilds of Dartmoor stands the isolated Priory of St Mary, home to the Sisters of the Knights of St John. People journey from afar in search of healing at the holy well that lies beneath its chapel.

But the locals believe Dartmoor was theirs long before Christianity came to the land. And not all who visit seek miracles. When three strangers reach the moor, fear begins to stir as the well’s waters run with blood.

What witchcraft have the young woman, the Knight of St John and the blind child brought with them?

The Sisters will need to fight for everything they hold dear as the ghosts of the Old World gather in their midst.

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Reviews

A brilliant writer, with a real sense of history
Susanna Gregory
Recommended both as a historical novel that shines a light on the harsh conditions endured by ordinary people in the 14th century, and also as a very well-crafted piece of folk horror
Irregular Fiction
Maitland excels at creating twists and turns, presenting conflicting viewpoints and unexpected outcomes
Bookbag
[Maitland's] trademark blend of history, fiction and supernatural is at its electrifying best
Lancashire Evening Post