London. January 1559 'A second Warbeck? A weapon for the Catholic cause against Elizabeth?' The Protestant Elizabeth I has succeeded her Catholic half sister Mary on the English throne, but is far from secure. Considered illegitimate by Catholics, she fights Mary's bishops for control of the Church. Her doughtiest opponent is Bishop John White. White's adopted son Jan, grandson of Perkin Warbeck, may have Plantagenet blood. Days before Elizabeth's coronation, he is recognised by Elizabeth's fervent old admirer Kit Ashton and finds himself in the Tower. As Jan fights for his life and White's, others who claim to have evidence about his lineage offer secret support. If he somehow escapes Elizabeth's vengeance, he must make a decision that will affect the future of England.