The Monastery

Set on the eve of the Protestant Reformation in Scotland, this book is a blend of local history, supernatural events, theological conflict, and humour. Located in the lawless Scottish borders, the novel depicts a monastery on the verge of dissolution and the fortunes of two brothers as they respond to the sense of a new social order. A talking-point when the work was first published, the mysterious spectral White Lady, guardian of the magical Black Book, still intrigues readers. A strong comic element Is provided by Sir Piercie Shafton with his absurd linguistic mannerisms fashionable at the English court.