A benefactor's gift of a house for Cambridge's first common library divides the university. Some scholars welcome the collection, while others fear that accepting the donation will change the balance of authority and obligation between colleges and patrons.
An attack at a planning meeting is followed by bodies in the library garden, and rumours of organised smugglers in the Fens add a second threat. Matthew Bartholomew, Brother Michael and Sheriff Tulyet must connect academic hostility with criminal activity before the opening ceremony becomes the scene of wider bloodshed.
Neal Stephenson
11 books
Henry Treece
35 books
Angus Donald
24 books
Philippa Gregory
32 books
Cecelia Holland
20 books