The book will discuss the life of Joan of Acre, daughter of King Edward I of England. Joan was used in the arrangement of marriage alliances to enhance Edward's sphere of influence. When her first husband, an important nobleman, Gilbert de Clare, died, Joan maintained the estate since the couple shared control of the Clare lands. She recognized her newfound power and influence and refused to be a political player once again in her father's machinations. Joan shows that the idea of women as the brides of Christ or as the instrument of the devil was not as clear-cut for women of the upper nobility as it first appears to be. In fact, it may not hold true for upper noblewomen at all. Joan's story also sheds light on medieval marriage, widowhood, and how women functioned within the feudal system.