The second book of Merlin's Immortals picks up as if the first never actually ended. Thomas is trying to resolve himself to the events that end the first book and the shock of betrayal that came with them. While he tries to come to grips with the things around him, the Earl of York comes and insists he join in the war effort against the Scots. Thomas's knowledge of war from his secret stash of books comes in handy and he makes a name for himself among the soldiers and their leaders.

But treachery strikes once again, turning his friends against him, Thomas finds himself defending the city he just claimed. While this book was much violent than the first, it wasn't overly graphic (except for one scene on during the march to the Scots). Thomas is growing and learning to trust in his insights and knowledge to get him out of trouble, while still trying to sort the the intrigue and mystery that surrounds him.