If you will be a great man's mistress you must pay the price...1372, The Savoy. Widow Lady Katherine Swynford presents herself for a role in the household of merciless royal prince John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, hoping to end her destitution. But the Duke's scandalous proposition leaves her life of pious integrity reeling...Seduced by the glare of royal adoration, Katherine becomes John's mistress. She will leave behind everything she has stood for to play second fiddle to his young wife and ruthless ambition. She will live in the shadows of the most powerful man in England in the hope of a love greater than propriety. But soon the court whispers - whore, harlot, vile temptress - reach the ears of not just John's bride but his most dangerous political enemies. As the Plantagenet prince is accused of bringing England to its knees, who better to blame than shameless she-devil Katherine Swynford? Dragged from the shadows, Katherine must answer for her sins. Praise for Anne O'Brien: 'Anne O'Brien has joined the exclusive club of excellent historical novelists' Sunday Express 'One of the best writers around...she outdoes even Philippa Gregory' The Sun 'Her writing is highly evocative of the time period. ..O'Brien has produced an epic tale' Historical Novel Society 'Anne O'Brien's novels give a voice to the "silent" women of history' Yorkshire Post 'Once again O'Brien proves herself a medieval history magician, conjuring up a sizzling, sweeping story' Lancashire Evening Post 'An exciting and intriguing story of love and historical politics. If you enjoy Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir you will love Anne O'Brien' We Love This Book 'A brilliantly researched and well-told story; you won't be able to put this book down' Candis 'A fast paced historical drama that is full of suspense.' Essentials