536 pages
English language
Published Aug. 13, 1994 by Harcourt Brace.
It is the year 1327. Franciscans in an Italian abbey are suspected of heresy, but Brother William of Baskerville’s investigation is suddenly overshadowed by seven bizarre deaths.
A wonderful, distinctive tale. Although it has the deep research of a historical novel, it's really a detective story.
Must be ready for deep literary devices though: page-long descriptions and passages in actual Latin.
The different levels this book operates on coming together in the end is incredible. It can be difficult to read some of the debates, but you are well rewarded for taking the time to understand them.
