The author obviously performed skilled research to create this story. Granted I am not a Richard the 111 historian, but everything seemed true and factual.

I had a few quibbles. One is why not give the characters names? That's right, neither the maiden/nun or the gentleman ever have names. This is odd because somewhere in the narrative another character would say the person's name, not call her or him "lady", "fellow", "friend" and on and on.

Patch the food is granted a name. He's special.

Another quibble is how too often the maiden's story is full of high hysteria. Perhaps the author wants to capture a young woman's edgy lust, but at times the screeching fouls the reading process.

But after I closed the book on the nun's tragic tale, I had tears in my eyes. When Jarman concentrates on crafting remorse and sorrow, she knifes the reader's heart.

I do not recommend this book for readers expecting a quick, easy read. If you aren't into history's dense weave, stay away.