In August 1354, Matthew Bartholomew travels with Brother Michael to Ely, expecting access to the Benedictine priory's library. Instead, they learn that Michael's bishop has been accused of murdering the steward of his powerful rival, Blanche de Wake.
Their investigation unfolds amid opposition to church tithes, thefts blamed on travelling outsiders and growing resentment towards ecclesiastical privilege. When a member of the priory is killed, Bartholomew and Michael must decide whether the deaths arise from local rebellion, private rivalry or a conspiracy intended to destroy the bishop.