This is the incredible story of the family of St. Bernard of Clairvaux. That its story should so well serve as the basis of a novel while yet remaining factual is proof enough that there has never been anything like it. There were nine in the family−seven men filled with the joy of living and the love of battle; two women with sentiments no less strong in the pleasures of life but much wiser in the ways of men. Their lives bring them into contact with all types of humanity. Popes, Kings, Cardinals, diplomats, saints and sinners, were at one time or another friend or enemy of this remarkable family. Siege was laid to great cities, tournaments were held before the great of the earth until suddenly, like the noise of a great wind, the family assembled for the great Tournament of their lives. All glamour, riches, honors, abandoned−it became this family against the world.