Telling the story of the Old English epic "Beowulf" from the point of view of the women, this historical novel traces the life of Brimhild, who weaves peace until the secret of her birth threatens to tear apart the fragile political stability. She is no monster, but fully human: a brine-baby; hall-queen; exiled mere-wife; and seer. The surviving women sing poignant laments, preserve a glittering culture, and provide hope for the future.