An atmospheric, original, folkoric mystery set in a remote Lithuanian beekeeping community in the 16th century, from debut author Lauren Keegan. For fans of Hannah Kent’s Burial Rites and Kate Forsyth’s Bitter Greens.

Bees choose their masters. Bees don’t sting good people.

Maryt is a devoted beekeeper. She lives by the old rules: work with fellow beekeepers, be a good Christian and a good harvest will follow. These rules help her cope with her grief when she inherits her husband’s tree hollows. But as harsh conditions and tax increases threaten the harvest, Maryt begins to question her faith, her community and her own sanity.
There is little help to be had from her eldest daughter. Aust?ja is no worker bee. She takes risks, speaks her mind and dreams of escaping their isolated community. As her mother works, she finds refuge in the ancient forest and the old beliefs instilled in her by her defiant grandmother.
When Aust?ja discovers the mutilated body of the Hollow Watcher and uncovers a honeycomb of lies and betrayal, she is intent on finding the truth and protecting her family. Will mother and daughter overcome their differences, learn the truth behind the murder and complete the honey harvest?