Set in 1708, Britain is at war with France, and Queen Anne, in frail health, shows little interest in governing, preferring activities like racing ducks and playing with her 17 rabbits, each representing a child she has lost. Her confidante, adviser, and furtive lover Sarah Churchill, the Duchess of Marlborough, effectively rules the country through her influence over the Queen. Sarah’s efforts to control Anne are undermined by Robert Harley, the Leader of the Opposition, who argues against a doubling of property taxes proposed to fund the war. The arrival of a new servant, Abigail, sets off a power struggle for the Queen’s favor, leading to betrayal, manipulation, and dark comedy.