Midsummer 1221: a tragic death at Conisbrough sends Edwin Weaver and his friend Sir Martin on an unexpected journey. But a baffling letter follows them, one which plunges them into danger as they travel to the manor of Martin's estranged father, deep inside Sherwood Forest, to find a dying man who can only gasp out a few cryptic phrases. Edwin has his work cut out to solve the mystery, because none of those who had the most compelling reasons to commit the murder could possibly have done so, while those who had the opportunity had seemingly no motive. Martin, meanwhile, must try to reconcile himself with his family even as he remains convinced that he is destined to bring ill luck and death wherever he goes. Then another murder attempt is made, and Edwin realizes he must work quickly if more death is not to be visited on the innocent.