Lady Mertia Waykins is forced to marry Lord Arthur, a terrifying chieftain of the north, to broker peace for her kingdom after a long period of war. After being attacked in her own home during the war, Mertia has been unable to open her eyes around men. Though initially terrified of how Arthur will react, she's stunned by how patient and gentle he is with her. As he shows her how beautiful her new home is and how kind its people are, Mertia finds herself wanting to learn more about the north and her warrior husband.