England, 1487—Ludovic Sumerford knows he'll never see a penny from his father's estate. His three older brothers will make sure of that. Fortunately, his smuggling venture brings in more than a few sovereigns. But when he tells a local woman about the sudden death of her brother, money is the least of his worries. Meanwhile, King Henry’s insecurity is testing the country to breaking point. He quietly seethes and plots, while rumors of a man claiming to be the rightful heir to the throne of England cause poor decisions. Ludovic, incriminated in the treasonous plot, captured, and tortured, must find a way to gain his freedom. Orphaned Alysson has nothing left now that another brother is gone. But she won't leave it there. Knowing he was murdered, she seeks to find the truth. Taking a job in the Sumerford’s household, where bitter feuds simmer with treachery and murder, Alysson’s naiveté cannot last long. No sooner does she arrive than the killer strikes again—and again.