The kingdom of Manticore needs allies against the 'Republic' of Haven - who consider war and conquest the natural state of affairs in the universe. The planet Grayson is in just the right strategic place to make a very good ally indeed, but Her Majesty's Foreign Office overlooked one matter when they appointed Honor Harrington to carry the flag: women on Grayson are without rights or rank, and Honor's presence will be an intolerable affront to every male on the planet.

The treatment Honor receives from the Graysonites becomes wearing over time, and she would withdraw if she could. But then the planet's twin attacks without warning and she must stay and prevail - not simply for herself, but also for.

THE HONOR OF THE QUEEN