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Codex Derynianus
Codex Derynianus, an A to Z guide to the Deryni world, provides background information on all the characters and places in the Deryni series and introduces new material regarding the era before Camber and the era between 928 (when the Bastard Prince ends) and 1120 (where Deryni Rising begins). We find intriguing hints about wars, plagues, and other lands in this book.
While encyclopedic in scope Codex provides fascinating insights into the lives of these characters and the traditions of these lands, both tragic and humorous. Codex also includes maps and a detailed chronology of all events in the Deryni world from about 200 A.D. to May 1, 1126 when the author, one Brother Theophilus, says he presented the Codex to King Kelson.

Since the Codex was discovered buried in the R'Kassi desert and contains information (such as the details surrounding Camber's death) which Kelson obviously does not possess at the time of his marriage in 1128, we can surmise that either Brother Theo never reached Kelson with the Codex or presented him with an edited version.

Brother Theo himself remains a mystery. Obviously he knows a great deal about everything, including the identities of members of the Camberian Council. His identity has generated much speculation in the alt.books.deryni newsgroup. Is Brother Theo really Denis Arilan or Laran ap Pardyce? Could Brother Theo be a pseudonym for a woman, such as Rothana or Richenda? Is there more than one Brother Theo? Perhaps a Secret Circle within the Camberian Council? Or a series of Brother Theos passing the quill pen down the generations through some intriguing arcane ritual? This would account for the detailed knowledge of numerous historical periods.

Only 500 copies of the hard cover limited edition were produced by Borgo Press/Underwood Books in 1998. It was republished with material including the events of King Kelson's Bride in 2005 for mass market and is still available at reasonable prices. The first edition hardcover is rare and expensive.

The cover artwork for Codex Derynianus was produced by Hannah M. G. Shapero, whose webpage may be found here.