In a world of treacherous glory, three friends must test their loyalty. One is destined to lead his country, one to battle for England's soul, and one to preserve its magic. Beatrice, accused of witchcraft, escapes fiery death with the help of a handsome stranger, the Earl of Southampton. Can she keep him from betraying their friend, William Shakespeare, the leader of the Papist revolt? Can a friendship endure when both men are in love with the same woman? Based on researched historical events and Shakespeare's works, this story weaves a great romance with the critical religious conflict that underscored England during the Elizabethan period.