In the heart of Tuscany, young Francesca DiCesare
... watches from the shadows as her father trains noble sons in the art of the blade. But in a world where swords belong to men, her dream of becoming a fencer is impossible--unless she dares to seize it for herself. When an English noble arrives at her father's famed fencing school, Francesca finds the perfect opportunity. In secret, she strikes a dangerous bargain; lessons by moonlight in exchange for a forbidden friendship. but as rivalries simmer and tempers flare, Francesca's defiance sets off a chain of events that will test her courage, her honor, and her heart. Betrayal looms, love falters, and tragedy strikes when a duel turns deadly. Faced with the weight of her choices, Francesca must decide whether to bow to the world's rules or carve her own path--one forged in steel and sacrifice. Read More