The Monk Who Cast A Spell

Durstan, a 17 year old 8th century Monk at the Monastery on Iona, falls in love with Ailan; becomes involved with Beth when he thinks he has lost her, and is injured then in a Viking raid. He doubts his Christian belief because of the magic of the old Gods whom people still worship in 794AD; the violence of the Vikings and the sexual awakening he experiences with Ailan at Beltane. The Abbot, Druid, Monks and Durstan's family are important to the story, as is the magic in the firelight, wildness of nature and seasons on Iona and Mull in the Hebrides, warmth of spring in April/May and snow at Yule, the blizzards and white sky.