The valiant goblin warrior Grakka and the honorable human knight Sir Kaelan are compelled to marry politically in order to put a stop to a bloody conflict. Their early mistrust is evident as they navigate extreme prejudice and startling cultural conflicts while confined within the hostile Stonegate Keep. Nonetheless, enduring more dangerous situations—such as sabotage intended to provoke conflict or a lethal ambush necessitating desperate cooperation—forces grudging respect and cooperation.

Their dynamic changes as they look into the plot against the peace deal. Grakka reluctantly admires Kaelan for her surprising support of justice for a goblin, yet her fierce pragmatism contradicts his outlook. In the midst of scandal, their developing knowledge separates them, but it also enables them to recognize their real adversaries: the vindictive Baron Varkas and his elusive Shadow Broker.