The murder of Surchatain Cedric has ended his brutal reign over Lystra. But according to the Law of Roman, Cedric's son, seven-year-old Henry, must either rule or die when he comes of age. To save his life, Commander Ares swears to uphold Henry's ascension. But while the throne is vacant, pretenders come pouring into Westford to press preposterous claims of rulership. In the midst of this turmoil, the young Chataine of Qarqar arrives, seeking safety from pursuit. In choosing to shelter her, Ares invites attacks from enemies known and unknown. When the crisis comes to a head, and leadership is thrust upon Ares, long-hidden pages of Roman's Law come to light that seal Henry's fate and make Ares' course inevitable. Ares of Westford is the sequel to Nicole of Prie Mer in the Latter Annals of Lystra. Prisoners of Hope is the third book of the series.