Stephen Sawyer lives in the house of Sir Richard Brogan in Devon during the reign of Henry VIII. As the son of a servant, he and his friend Tim play freely around the estate. Once of age they take their place in the household with Tim as page to Sir Richard and Stephen companion to his son Robert. After several years this carefree lifestyle is brought to an abrupt halt when Stephen witnesses Tim's brutal murder. Stephen vows revenge, but how, when his duties confine him to the house? His opportunity comes when he is appointed Robert's page and is able to travel. He sees first hand the intrigue and double standards of the nobility and hears tittle-tattle from loose-tongued servants; especially at Hampton Court. As he grows into manhood and a position of trust in the household, he learns that Tim's death is part of a plot against the crown and this knowledge leads him into a world of escalating danger where he dare not trust even those closest to him.