Plot Summary

Two, young Irish mercenaries during the Franco-Prussian War pocket loose gemstones from a bejeweled and defiled chalice. Deserting their unit, they hide in a countryside barn in France, their hushed pleas moving brave Alexia to protect them. They overcome language and culture but not an enemy's pursuit on their dangerous journey back home, one in search of his true love.

Reuniting with the Taaffe clan back in Ireland, they face the unexpected. Throughout their journey, Michael and Patrick evoke the best and worst from an array of notable characters including a revenge seeker, unlikely friends, and exploiters as the intriguing plot resolves into a theme of redemption.