An Early Fall

James IV's war with England is a fool's errand and is certain to bring tragedy to many a household in the Scottish Borders. But even before its men answer King James' call to arms, Newark Castle suffers tragedy of its own. On a rainy morning in August 1513, Peter Wemyss, master of the stables, is found stabbed to death and Rachel Tanner, a serving maid, has gone missing. Are Father Francis' prayers for peace simply born of a delusion? Or will they be answered for the aging Sir Alexander Guthrie, who must leave one violence only to lead his men another? For his wife, Margaret, and their steward, Findlay MacCulloch, who must pick up the pieces left behind? For the eighty men of Newark and Selkirk marching to Flodden, caught in a web not of their own making? For Father Francis himself, whose loss of Rachel is perhaps greatest of all? Is there room for grace in such a world, or will revenge and violence have the final say?