4.12
Part of "Sister Fidelma" series
"Dancing with Demons" by Peter Tremayne is a captivating historical mystery that transports readers to seventh-century Ireland. Tremayne, a pseudonym for prominent crime novelist Peter Berresford Ellis, masterfully blends historical accuracy with a gripping plot, making for an engaging and educational read. The novel follows Sister Fidelma, a religieuse and advocate of the ancient Brehon laws, as she investigates a series of murders that have occurred within the walls of a monastery. The victims are all prominent scholars, and the only clue to their deaths is a cryptic note left at each crime scene. With the help of her trusted companion, Brother Eadulf, Fidelma embarks on a dangerous journey to unravel the mystery and bring the killer to justice. Tremayne's extensive knowledge of the period is evident in the richly detailed setting and the authentic portrayal of the Brehon legal system. The author's ability to weave historical facts into the narrative without interrupting the flow of the story is commendable. The characters are well-developed, and the dialogue is sharp and witty, making for a lively and engaging read. The mystery itself is intricate and thought-provoking, with multiple twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Tremayne's use of red herrings and misdirection is masterful, making for a satisfying and suspenseful reading experience. Overall, "Dancing with Demons" is a must-read for fans of historical mysteries and anyone interested in early Irish history. The novel is a testament to Tremayne's storytelling abilities and his deep understanding of the period. It is a thrilling and educational read that is sure to leave readers wanting more...
Donna Tartt
The Secret History
If you enjoyed the psychological depth and complex characters of 'Dancing With Demons', you'll appreciate 'The Secret History'. Set in a small liberal arts college in Vermont, a group of classics students become obsessed with the occult and the darker aspects of Greek tragedy.
Learn MoreOliver Pötzsch
The Hangman's Daughter
If you enjoyed the historical setting and mystery of 'Dancing With Demons', you'll likely appreciate 'The Hangman's Daughter'. Set in 17th century Germany, a hangman and his daughter must solve a series of murders and uncover a conspiracy that threatens their small town.
Learn MoreDiane Setterfield
The Thirteenth Tale
If you enjoyed the gothic atmosphere and mystery of 'Dancing With Demons', you'll appreciate 'The Thirteenth Tale'. Set in modern-day England, a reclusive author reveals her dark past to a young biographer, who must unravel the secrets of the author's family and her own identity.
Learn MoreUmberto Eco
The Name of the Rose
For readers who liked the blend of history, mystery, and religious intrigue in 'Dancing With Demons', 'The Name of the Rose' is a must-read. Set in a 14th century Italian monastery, a Franciscan friar and his young apprentice investigate a series of murders with ties to the library and the secrets it holds.
Learn MoreCaleb Carr
The Alienist
Fans of historical crime fiction will enjoy 'The Alienist', which shares the dark and atmospheric tone of 'Dancing With Demons'. Set in 1896 New York City, a criminal psychologist, a newspaper illustrator, and a police commissioner must track down a serial killer who is preying on boy prostitutes.
Learn MoreMatthew Pearl
The Dante Club
If you enjoyed the religious themes and historical setting of 'Dancing With Demons', you'll likely appreciate 'The Dante Club'. Set in post-Civil War Boston, a group of poets who have translated Dante's Divine Comedy must solve a series of murders that reenact the Inferno's punishments.
Learn MoreKatherine Howe
The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane
For readers who liked the witchcraft and historical elements of 'Dancing With Demons', 'The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane' is a great choice. Set in 1991 Salem, a graduate student discovers a manuscript that reveals the secrets of her ancestor, a witch who was accused of witchcraft during the Salem witch trials.
Learn MoreElizabeth George Speare
The Witch of Blackbird Pond
For readers who liked the witchcraft and historical elements of 'Dancing With Demons', 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond' is a great choice. Set in 17th century Connecticut, a young woman accused of witchcraft must clear her name and find her place in a hostile community.
Learn MoreErika Swyler
The Book of Speculation
If you enjoyed the mystical and supernatural elements of 'Dancing With Demons', you'll appreciate 'The Book of Speculation'. Set in a small circus town on Long Island, a young librarian discovers a book that reveals the secrets of his family's history and the curse that has plagued them for generations.
Learn MoreSarah Perry
The Essex Serpent
For readers who liked the historical setting and supernatural elements of 'Dancing With Demons', 'The Essex Serpent' is a great choice. Set in 19th century England, a young widow becomes obsessed with the legend of a sea monster that has been sighted in the Essex marshes, and must navigate the tensions between science and religion, and love and loyalty.
Learn More