On the matriarchal world of Muirin, sixteen-year-old Cadfael of the Dana Clan knew many things; most importantly that he was miserable living in his family's home. Unfortunately, every time he left home he faced harassment that sent him running straight back. Trapped between his personal safety and everyone else's expectations, Cadfael didn't see a way for things to change. But then he was sent on a surprise trip around the world to Ntombi, a land of dark-skinned people, harems full of pampered men and two siblings who seduced his very soul. Ynes, general of the Ntombian armies, spoke to the part of his heart that wanted to be protected and listened to. Macario, her only brother and leader of the men's harem, tempted Cadfael on a much more physical level. Ntombi seemed to be the place he'd always looked for and never found but his family's history and the political forces in Aingeal and Ntombi made it seem impossible that he'd ever get to claim a life with Ynes and Macario. Cadfael had a choice to make, a dare to face and the only hope for a happy life for the three of them rested in Cadfael's frightened hands.