Immersed in England's dynastic war, the Rivaux family is making a dangerous move by abandoning Stephen of Blois to back the empress Matilda. Elizabeth of Rivaux, a 22-year-old widow, will do her bit by defending her father's castle Harlowe. Attacked on her way to the castle, Elizabeth is rescued by the Scottish Sir Giles (aka "the Butcher") of Moray. Safely delivered to Harlowe, Elizabeth expresses her gratitude by arresting Giles for being an "impertinent lout," but he is prudently released by Elizabeth's grandmother. Giles remains miffed, but attracted to Elizabeth, he treks back from his Scottish home to claim her as his bride -- whether she likes it or not. No simple marriage this: Giles, a supporter of Stephen, must settle personal and political differences with Elizabeth and her menfolk as well as contend with problems from her first wretched marriage before they can all become one big, happy medieval family.
