Lady Cicely Bowen, beloved daughter of the Earl of Leighton has a jealous stepmother who forces her out of her home. When her life is threatened, Cicely is sent to foster with the Queen of England. There she becomes best friends with Lady Joan Beaufort, the King's cousin. Joan becomes the wife of James I of Scotland. She takes Cicely to Scotland with her in the hopes that Cicely will find a husband.

Cicely is well dowered but her father has given her final approval of any match made on her behalf. The King has agreed and he cannot force her into marriage to bind some of the recalcitrant clans to him. Cicely is being courted by the elegant Andrew Gordon. Andrew has kept all other men away from Cicely which suits the King.

In desparation, Ian Douglas kidnaps Cicely so that she will realize the depths of his feelings for her. Cicely is adamantly opposed to staying at Glengorm but winter delays her rescue. By that time, she has come to love Ian and they are wed.

The King is not done with them. Ian will be forced to prove his rights to the ancestral lands and Cicely's dowery is confiscated by the King. Joan promises that she will get James to return it when she is delivered of their son.

The child is a girl and other events will interfere with Cicely's life and plans for the future.

Ms. Small has written a detailed history of James I of Scotland even though the story is focused on the fictional characters. She accurately portrays the life and times of that era. The reader will exult in the story and the history of the tumultous times as James consolidated his authority. Her hero and heroine are strong characters who must face the difficulties of life in the Borders.

This is a fascinating story which will bring delight to all readers of historical fiction.