Determined to prove himself to his disgraced father's aristocratic family, mercenary Severin Brigante Harnoncourt joins forces with the Duke of Burgundy in securing the great fortress of Mercier, a stronghold vital to the Duke's battle to claim the throne of France for Henry V of England. But Severin quickly finds a far more difficult challenge in Count de Mercier's beautiful young widow, Alix Ducci Montaldo de Mercier. For in taking her as his wife, he discovers that he will need all of his skill--and passion--to lay siege to her proud, fiery heart. Alix cherishes the memory of her noble husband, and is determined to keep his legacy safe. She's certain that the passion she feels for Severin is fleeting, though it threatens far more than just her heart. Now, amid treachery from an unexpected source, and with the armies of two nations moving toward the small village of Agincourt, Alix must delve into the dangerous secrets of her heritage. The truth she discovers will not only threaten the love she has found with Severin--but also both of their lives.