Empress Josephine's family has been called to Napoleon's court to hear the terrible news that he intends to divorce his wife of thirteen years - who has failed to provide an heir - and take a younger bride, the Austrian princess Marie-Louise.

For his new wife, the marriage is a horrible duty she must take on in her father's name and there is little in her new life to enjoy. But an unlikely friendship with Hortense, Josephine's daughter, will bring her much comfort as she fights for happiness.

For Napoleon's sister, Pauline Bonaparte, it is yet another woman stealing her brother's attention. Having spent years attempting to control his power, she must fight dirtier if she is to win...