The Rose Rent

The sleuthing monk unravels a thorny case of murder in this "accomplished whodunit meticulously wrought with a wealth of medieval detail" (Booklist).

A late spring in 1142 brings dismay to the Abbey of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, for there may be no roses by June 22. On that day the young widow Perle must receive one white rose as rent for the house she has given to benefit the abbey, or the contract is void. When nature finally complies, a pious monk is sent to pay the rent-and is found mu...