Ninth-century Norway, the island of Tromøy. Åsa has won back her father's kingdom, but can she hold it? The evil shapeshifter Hrolf lurks in the hinterlands, plotting revenge. The powerful Danes threaten from across the Skagerrak Sea, demanding marriage in exchange for peace, while her only ally, Olaf, presses his own suit. Though she loves Olaf, Åsa refuses to sacrifice her position and her people's welfare to become any man's property. Then, across the snow-clad mountains comes Ragnhild, a runaway shield-maiden, seeking glory and gold. She seems to be the answer to Åsa's prayers, but Ragnhild's past catches up with her, bringing treachery and war. Contains mature themes.