The Summer Fields

Is the pain of loss a price worth paying for true love?

In the year 1704, dairy maid Elen Griffiths immunity to the smallpox plaguing England should be a blessing. But when she is instructed to care for high-born Viscount Mordiford she is forced to leave her home and nurse him in the confines of Duntisbourne Hall. There, Elen finds a horribly afflicted patient and sinister associates whom set out to lure her into their debauchery. It is only her friendship with valet Ned Harley that offers a chink of light. That is, until she realises her ally is in fact out to betray her.

Elen is saved from shame by her patient, Mordiford, who urges her to flee and serve as a nurse for the Duke of Marlborough’s campaign against the French. He promises to follow when he is well, and Elen realises that their time together has sparked a passion between them – but how can they overcome the challenge of war, not to mention their vastly different backgrounds?

On the banks of the Danube at the Battle of Blenheim, Elen is threatened by a figure from her past. It may be a small battle in comparison to the events of the day but Elen’s destiny lies in the hands of others, and failure to win risks life, freedom and love.