England and France, 1340–1385 — The princess who loved against the law, and changed the crown that condemned her. Joan of Kent was born into scandal—the daughter of a condemned traitor, raised in the court of a queen, and destined to obey where others ruled. Yet Joan refused to be silent. When she secretly married a knight beneath her station, she defied both crown and church. When her first love died, she dared to love again—this time, England’s heir, the Black Prince himself. Through plague, war, and exile, Joan’s courage remade her world. Her grace steadied kings, her compassion softened swords, and her quiet defiance transformed what power could mean. In the twilight of chivalry, she became England’s most unlikely hero—a woman who proved that mercy may rule where armies cannot. Part of The Iron and the Quill , this novel brings to life the story of Joan of Kent through vivid prose and emotional depth. Includes an Author’s Note , Historical Timeline , Glossary , Sources & Methods , and Discussion Guide —perfect for homeschool and classroom readers alike.