Seventeen-year-old Gabrielle March sets out to deliver an important message to Emperor Sebastian of Berengaria, only to be waylaid by the Muscovan navy. Once deep in hostile territory, Gabrielle uses her wits to survive the brutality of Tsar Nicolai, the vengeance of a diabolical enemy, and the devastating knowledge that she may never have the man she loves. While the wolves of war howl, she searches her heart to discern where her love and loyalty lie.