A thrilling tale of intrigue and civil war in twelfth–century England, by the New York Times–bestselling author of the Mistress of the Art of Death series.

England, 1141. The countryside is devastated by a long civil war as the English king, Stephen, and his cousin, the Empress Matilda, battle for the crown. . . .

Emma is the eleven-year-old redheaded daughter of a peasant family. When mercenaries pass through their town, they bring with them a monk with a deadly interest in young redheaded girls. Emma is left for dead in a burned-out church until Gwil, an archer, finds her by chance. Gwil takes Emma with him, dressing her as a boy to avoid attention. Emma becomes Penda—and Penda turns out to have a killer instinct with a bow and arrow.

Maud is the fifteen-year-old chatelaine of Kenniford, a small but strategically important castle she’s determined to protect. But when Maud provides refuge for the empress, Stephen’s armies lay siege to Kenniford Castle. Aided by a garrison of mercenaries—including Gwil and his odd, redheaded apprentice—they must survive a long winter under siege. It’s a brutal season that brings everyone to Kenniford—including the sinister monk who has never stopped hunting the redheaded girl. . . .

“Seizes you from the first page . . . and doesn’t let go!”—Nancy Bilyeau, author of The Chalice

“Enthralling. . . . A grand yet intimate historical adventure.” —Library Journal

“Highlighted by solid characterization of historical and fictional figures alike, the authors’ research on day-to-day medieval life shines. . . . This thoroughly captivating tale was begun by celebrated historical novelist Franklin, who died before its completion, and completed seamlessly by her journalist daughter, Norman.” —Kirkus Reviews

© 2024 William Morrow (Ebook): 9780062282583

Release date

Ebook: 19 March 2024