Newly returned from the Crusades, Simon of Blackstone had thought to confront his past, not find himself the prime suspect for a murder he didn't commit. Yet, to uncover the real killer he had no choice but to join forces with Linnet Especer, a woman he had every reason to despise.

But the lady was proving difficult to hate. And as the two came dangerously close to discovering the truth behind the evil that menaced them both, Simon began to realize that he would do anything to protect Linnet from harm... and would fight to the death for her honor and love.