They knew what was coming.

Man and beast knew what lay ahead.

After the war cry.

Bitter the grave.

At long last, the peace King Arthur was born to usher in has settled over the realm. But Arthur was also born to be a warrior... and all true warriors are restless without a fight. Yearning for battle and ever-loyal, Arthur is easily deceived into setting sail for Gaul to defend its territories—leaving his country vulnerable and leaderless.

A beacon of hope in a land of desolation, he was to be the Lord of the Summer Land for now and forever. But first, the Pendragon must face the ultimate test, one that will take all his courage, strength of will, and honor to survive.

Because once destiny is fulfilled, can you ever truly win again?

"Helen Hollick has it all. She tells a great story..." —Bernard Cornwell

"Hollick's interpretation is bold, affecting, and well worth fighting to defend." —Publishers Weekly