Plot summary

The power dynamic among three women in the royal house of England in the early 18th century is presented during a time when England is at war with France. The first is Queen Anne, the current ruler. She tries to overcome her insecurities, paranoia, and potential perceived weakness in being lame by that outward power of being ruler. The second is Sarah, Lady Marlborough, the Queen's trusted lady-in-waiting and the wife to Lord Marlborough, the head of the British military. The third is Abigail Hill, Sarah's cousin, whose family has fallen on hard times; Sarah hires her to work in the royal palace in various domestic roles. The Queen's motivation is to appear that she is in charge while desperately wanting to feel loved by those whom she loves. Sarah's motivation is to implement her desired policies, especially with regard to the war. Abigail's motivation is to regain her status as a lady in not wanting to feel at the mercy of poverty ever again. Others try to exploit this dynamic, especially Harley, the leader of the opposition in Parliament, who doesn't feel that he has the Queen's ear at this important time of war.—Huggo