Go with God and fight like the devil! A charming hero and the pursuit of a mystical sword is a remarkable new novel from a master British storyteller, which culminates during the Battle of Poitiers in 1356. The Hundred Years' War continues to rage and the bloodiest battles are yet to be fought. All over France, the gates of cities are closing, crops are burning, the country is frozen in anxious anticipation of a thunderstorm. Once again, under the leadership of the Black Prince, the English army,  victorious at the Battle of Crécy, has invaded and the French are in pursuit. Thomas of Hookton, an English archer nicknamed "The Bastard", is ordered to find the lost sword of St. Peter, a weapon rumored to grant any owner unfailing victory. When superior forces trap the English army near the city of Poitiers, Thomas, his men and his sworn enemies are faced with an unprecedented confrontation that escalates into one of the greatest battles in history.