In 14th century Europe, seventeen-year-old Christina Kohl refuses to accept a future defined by marriage and obedience. When tragedy strikes, she seizes a daring chance for freedom—assuming her dead brother’s identity to navigate the treacherous world of commerce as a Hanseatic merchant. But deception is a dangerous game and, in a land where women have no power and secrets carry a deadly cost, Christina must fight not just to succeed, but to survive.

SYNOPSIS:

Seventeen-year-old Christina Kohl wants more than the life prescribed for her as the daughter of a wealthy merchant in 14th century Lübeck, Germany. While other young women prepare for marriage and motherhood, Christina dreams of adventure, independence, and mastering the art of swordplay. But in a world ruled by men, her defiance is dangerous.

When her sister suddenly dies and her brother vanishes during a pirate attack enroute to London, Christina is left with a stark choice: surrender to an unwanted marriage arranged in her sister’s place—or disappear. Disguising herself as her lost brother, she steps into a role she’s untrained for but determined to master: that of a Hanseatic merchant.

In London’s cutthroat world of commerce and politics, Christina must navigate treacherous trade deals, fending off enemies both known and hidden. Her deception puts her in the orbit of the volatile English court, including the charismatic and controversial Piers Gaveston, lover of King Edward II. When secrets unravel and enemies close in, Christina faces betrayal, blackmail, and multiple attempts on her life.

Yet through it all, she remains fiercely herself—finding friendship, unexpected love, and the strength to shape her own destiny. With sword in hand and a ship beneath her feet, Christina Kohl is determined to prove that no man is her master.