Thomas of Hookton must avenge his father's death and recover a stolen relic amidst the brutal campaigns of the Hundred Years' War. Driven by personal loss and a sacred duty, Thomas, an English archer known as a 'Harlequin' by the French, navigates a landscape ravaged by war. He faces the dual challenge of surviving the battlefield and fulfilling his quest, all while the fate of England and France hangs in the balance, culminating in a confrontation near Crécy.

This novel is the first in Bernard Cornwell's bestselling Grail Quest series, presented here in a repackaged edition. The narrative plunges readers into the visceral realities of 14th-century warfare, focusing on the prowess of English archers. Its blend of historical detail and personal quest has resonated with readers who appreciate Cornwell's signature style of action-packed historical fiction. The book sets a compelling stage for Thomas of Hookton's journey, promising further adventures and conflicts.