On a remote isle off the Kerry coast, a group of monks has decided to take a stand against its masters in Rome - contrary to modem edicts, the brethren have chosen to retain the old traditions and ceremonies of worship. Their ancient practices do not go unnoticed however, and as they start to attract crowds of curious tourists pilgrims even - someone has to stop them. But when Father James Kinsella arrives with strict orders from the Vatican, he does not find, as he anticipates, a community united in defiance, but one riven by dogma and doubt ...

In this masterly evocation of an island brotherhood, Brian Moore explores the subtle boundaries that shift between duty and faith, between obedience and dissent.