When his saintly wife dies in childbirth, Sir Christian rescues his infant son with a violent act that seals his ruthless reputation. Now, the warrior known as the Slayer of Helmsley must find a wet nurse, or his babe, too, will perish. Yet how will he attain help when the populace fears him? Clarisse du Boise is desperate. The lives of her sisters and mother depend on her committing a terrible act-murdering the Slayer, if only she can get close enough to do so. Weaving an ever-growing web of lies, Clarisse gains access to Christian's castle where she sparks his immediate interest. While caring for his son, she discovers redeeming traits in the warrior and an unexpected desire to know him better. With her resolution to commit the heinous act wavering, a shocking solution comes to mind. But is the price more than she is willing to pay?