Then Jack's body is carried home from that same fog-shrouded city, his death attributed to a brawl. But Margaret dares to inspect the corpse and discovers that Jack did not die from a simple beating -- he was viciously mutilated. Leaving her quiet life as a merchant's daughter, the young, vibrant woman decides to search for her husband and Jack's killer.

Margaret soon finds herself in a harsh world that is no place for a lone woman. Seeking shelter with her uncle, an innkeeper who is reluctant to have her in his household, Margaret knows her mission will test both her prowess and her loyalties. English troops occupy Edinburgh, and Roger's trail leads into a dangerous labyrinth of politics and betrayal.