Plymouth, July 1801: Richard Bolithos small squadron, still repairing the scars of battle earned in heavy action at Copenhagen, has been months away from the sea. But the Admiralty needs Bolitho. After eight years of war with France, Britain must make a gesture that will show her strength and determination—and one which will dramatically weaken the French cause. The Admiralty wants an attack.

Rear-Admiral Bolitho must follow his flags tradition of victory, even though—for the first time in his life—he is torn between the demands of public duty and personal need.