As the year 1141 dawns in England, the rivalry between the two claimants for the throne bursts into open conflict. Gambling on who will prevail, needing their friendship, Brenin Madog ap Maredudd of Powys takes his men to the ensuing battle and afterwards sends his heir Rhodri off on a simple errand that becomes a journey fraught with danger as he must go against treacherous lords, enemy Cymry, and even his brother to keep hold of the lady who has captured his heart. Cecily Felber weaves a rich, medieval tapestry of love, treachery, courage, desperation, and hope in 12th century Wales, whose people are struggling to resist the relentless encroachment of their Norman neighbors, and England, where two royal cousins' contest for the crown will come to be known as "The Anarchy."