It is the year 1657, and following her father's unprecedented ascent to de facto ruler of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, Frances Cromwell has moved from her rural childhood home to the sumptuous surroundings of the palaces of Hampton Court and Whitehall. These are uncertain times however, and after an assassination attempt on her whole family, Frances realises that her fortune and future is no longer in her own hands. But when Oliver Cromwell is officially offered the crown, Frances's hand in marriage suddenly assumes diplomatic and dynastic importance. Will she become a political pawn or can Frances use her new status to further her own ambitions?