The story of William Marshal's father is captured in this first novel in a spellbinding standalone trilogy, by award-winning novelist Elizabeth Chadwick.

The early twelfth century is a time for ambitious men to prosper - and royal servant John FitzGilbert is one of them. But when the old king dies and his successor is appointed, John's position at court is weakened and his wife, the pious, pliant Aline, is hopelessly unequipped to deal with a life lived on the edge.

John knows the only way to protect his lands and his children is to divorce Aline. He meets his match in new wife Sybilla, daughter of his enemy Patrick of Salisbury, as she possesses a strength and courage that equals his own. But when Sybilla's son, William, is seized by the king, John is forced to make a terrible sacrifice. Sometimes keeping your honour means breaking your word . . .

"Chadwick's historical grasp is secure and vivid in this punchy prequel to her last two FitzGilbert epics...an absorbing narrative that canters along" - FINANCIAL TIMES

"Another wonderfully written, immensely moving and immaculately researched novel from an author who grows in stature with every book she writes" - LANCASHIRE EVENING Post

"Spellbinding . . . Based on real characters and extensive research, Chadwick's imaginative tale will keep readers captive till the final page" - Publishers Weekly

"Picking up an Elizabeth Chadwick novel you know you are in for a sumptuous ride. Beautifully strong characters and real feel for time and place" - Daily Telegraph

"An extraordinary, wonderful, true story . . . I really felt that I had walked with William Marshal, and that my own life was enriched" - Richard Lee, Founder and Publisher of The Historical Novel Society