Beginning in 1501, the second Morland novel follows Paul, great-grandson of Eleanor, as the family’s wealth and influence expand during the reign of Henry VIII. Paul’s devotion to an illegitimate son creates a destructive rivalry with Amyas, the lawful heir, and jealousy between the half-brothers threatens both lives and the succession to Morland Place.
At court, Paul’s niece Nanette serves Anne Boleyn and becomes entangled in the king’s break with Rome. The family’s domestic struggle over legitimacy mirrors a kingdom transformed by royal marriage, religious change and the pursuit of heirs. As the Morlands rise into the aristocracy, proximity to power brings prestige but also exposes them to the violence and uncertainty of Tudor politics.
