The Renunciates are a group of women also known as Free Amazons who are allowed a degree of freedom in Darkovan society that is not permitted to other women. This follows two women through their careers and says much about the clash of cultures since one is Darkovan and the other a Terran. These three novels: the shattered Chain;Thendara House; and City of Sorcery; are among the best in the Darkover cycle.