This story takes place in England and France during the reign of Edward III (1327-1377). During this time, Englishmen, under King Edward’s son, are fighting to capture French lands. The Prince of Wales is referred to as the "Black Prince" and at this time parts of France are under the control of the English.

The Lynwood family includes the Black Prince’s faithful knight Sir Reginald, his frail wife Eleanor, his younger brother Eustace (who is the hero of our story), and Reginald’s young son Arthur. The Lances of Lynwood are about 20 armed men who form a troop around Sir Reginald of Lynwood.

The story traces the growth of Eustace from a weak, scholarly, well-mannered squire to a bold and true warrior knight. Despite a series of battles and schemes of treachery plotted against him, Eustace exhibits every nobility of soul and aristocracy of virtue and remains a forgiving and Christian knight.