Cruel as the Grave

Set against the backdrop of 1193 England, the story unfolds with King Richard Lionheart imprisoned and his brother John plotting treason. Dowager Queen Eleanor enlists Justin de Quincy, her loyal agent, to negotiate a truce with John. Amidst political turmoil, the murder of a Welsh peddler's daughter, Melangell, deeply affects Justin, compelling him to pursue the truth behind her death despite looming threats, including a potential French invasion. The narrative intertwines personal justice with the broader conflict of loyalty and power.