Renard heir to Ravenstow is a crusader in Antioch. Summoned home to his ailing father Renard brings Olwen with him an exotic dancing girl whose sensuous beauty has ensnared him. Yet Renard is already betrothed to the innocent Elene. Torn between Olwen and Elene Renard's personal dilemma is set against a background of increasing civil strife as Ranulf of Chester his greedy neighbour strives to snatch his lands. When Renard is taken prisoner at the Battle of Lincoln his fate is placed in the hands of the two women - his former mistress now in the bed of his deadliest enemy and his determined yet inexperienced wife protecting his lands against terrible odds . . .