The Brand dynasty kindles devotion in many, but hatred in some, notably in the traitorous Tory clan, the Connaughts. On the eve of marrying Devroe Connaught, Rebecca's daughter, Suzannah, elopes with her lover. Devroe pursues them, intent on murder. Rebecca's sons Gunning and Bravo are divided by a dark secret while Rebecca fights desperately for peace at home and freedom for Texas.