Wimer the Chaplain—Saxon in a Norman world; friend of King Henry ll, excommunicated by Thomas Becket and the Pope—how can he save his soul? The King's mistress has the key....

Winner of the Discovered Diamond and Book Readers' Appreciation Group Medallion awards!

Wimer could have become a monk. Instead, his decision to become a Chaplain–to make his way in the wider world of men–has put his soul in mortal danger. In 12th century East Anglia, poor Saxon boys stay poor. It takes an exceptional one to win Henry II's friendship, and to rise to the job of High Sheriff of all Norfolk and Suffolk. Falling foul of the stormy relationship between Henry and his Archbishop, he is excommunicated three times, twice by Thomas a' Becket, and once by the Pope. He also falls in love with the King's Ward, Ida. Before he plucks up the courage to do anything about it, the King takes her as his mistress, and Ida needs Wimer's support to survive that dangerous liaison.

Although he is eventually reinstated in the Church, his problems with his religious superiors, and his love for Ida, will guarantee him a place in Hell, unless he can find land and resources to do something spectacular in the way of penance....

Based on a true story, this book is set in 12th century England, where religion and politics are the same thing; and a misstep can be deadly.

If you enjoyed Ken Follett's Pillars of the Earth series, or love Elizabeth Chadwick's vivid depictions of the Plantagenets–come into this worldview!