In 12th-century Devon, much of the country lies under the iron rule of the Royal Forest laws. When two Royal Forest officers are murdered, Sir John de Wolfe finds himself with another complex investigation.
When the coroner, a concept new to 12th century Devon, is brought in to investigate an unidentified body, the corrupt sheriff, De Revelle is forced to cover up for one of Devonshire's finest and most honourable families.