1325: In the gilded cage that is the Palace of Westminster, Isabella, Queen of England, is troubled by court intrigue. Her jealous husband, Edward II, has removed all her privileges, her regal status and even her children.

When Isabella is dispatched to France to negotiate peace with the French King, Sir Baldwin de Furnshill travels with her to ensure her safety. But it seems that no one can be trusted, not least the Queen’s own retinue. Murder, betrayal, adultery and cold, calculating evil are just the beginning of Baldwin’s tempestuous journey into the dark hearts of powerful nations at war with each other.