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Set in 1549, the narrative follows John Knox, a Scottish Reformer who, after escaping the galleys, seeks to challenge papistry and the English Protestant Church's liturgy. As a chaplain to Edward VI, he faces hostility and danger, especially after Edward's death leads to the Catholic Mary Tudor's reign. Knox's quest takes him across Europe, seeking counsel on the legitimacy of deposing ungodly rulers. His inquiries attract dangerous attention, culminating in a plot for regicide inspired by his beliefs.

Set in the 16th century, this narrative explores the complexities of life during a time of great change and upheaval. It delves into the social, political, and religious tensions that characterized the era, showcasing the struggles of individuals caught in the crossfire of historical events. Richly detailed, the story weaves together the lives of various characters, each facing their own challenges and aspirations, ultimately revealing the resilience of the human spirit amidst turmoil.

Hailes Castle, 1511. Midnight on a doom-laden Halloween and Elisabeth Hepburn, feisty daughter of the Earl of Bothwell, makes a wish--to wed her lover, the poet David Lindsay. But her uncle has other plans. To safeguard the interests of the Hepburn family, she is to become a nun and succeed her aunt as Prioress of St. Mary's Abbey, Haddington. However, plunged into the political maelstrom and religious turmoil of the early Scottish Reformation, her life there is hardly one of quiet contemplation. But her greatest struggle is against her godson, John Knox. Witnessing his rejection of the Roman Catholic Church, she despairs that the sins of her past may have contributed to his present disenchantment. As he purges himself from the puddle of papistry, Knox finds his voice, denouncing everything he once held dear, but will that include his godmother, Prioress Elisabeth?