Grieving for her young suitor killed during a prisoner escape, Lady Claire Sevalliere plans to leave the great castle at Wode to live with her aunt. Claire will remain a maiden, devoted to her beloved who died. However, before she can depart, Wode is besieged. Claire is taken hostage. Determined to provoke a confrontation with his sire, Tye, the illegitimate son of Lord Geoffrey de Lanceau, lays claim to Wode, the de Lanceau family castle. Tye looks forward to the battle in which he will slay his father. It's the destiny for which Tye's vengeful mother raised him. Yet, when Tye meets Claire, who challenges his authority, he is intrigued. He'd never be worthy of Claire's love, but he'll enjoy the challenge of seducing her. He soon finds he is the one seduced by Claire's innocent beauty and intelligence. She brings light to his dark, tormented soul. As battle draws near, Tye's past catches up with him. At risk of losing Claire, he must confront his greatest torment-and his destiny changes forever.