This book's main character actually existed. Pedro I was king of Portugal from 1357-1367. The earliest account of his life can be found in the Cronicas of Fernao Lopes, one of the earliest Portuguese historians. Lopes tells of his character and his passion for justice. He also includes several incidents that I have used as the basis for the three mysteries I have written and have collected in this book. In one story Pedro discovers a body by the side of the road. He must discover who the man was and who was responsible for his death and pass judgment on the guilty. In the second, the naked body of a beautiful woman is discovered in the street of a town after a night of Carnaval. Again Pedro must discover who is responsible for this crime and see that a suitable punishment is administered. In the third Pedro, who is not yet king, must defend one of his followers who is accused of raping and murdering a young girl.