1528: Escaping from her family's scandalous involvement with Anne Boleyn's circle, Thomasin Marwood is beginning a new life in the service of Queen Catherine of Aragon. Thomasin is trying to forget Rafe Danvers, the man who stole her heart and then betrayed her, and when a group of Venetians arrive at court, she is drawn to the sophisticated Nico. But a great danger is lurking. The dreaded sweating sickness has returned, which claimed the life of Catherine's first husband, Prince Arthur, many years ago. Catherine and her ladies are forced to flee, and their shared isolation with King Henry brings the couple closer again. But Anne Boleyn will not let herself be forgotten. Thomasin finds herself torn between new friends and old loyalties as Rafe comes back into her life. Who will win Thomasin's heart? Will she survive the dreaded sickness? And will Anne Boleyn become victorious in her quest for the throne?
