Spencer Becket went to war in America, getting caught in the American War of Independence and he came back battered and bruised and with a section of time missing due to injuries. He wonders what happened during that time but is reassured that this isn't all bad as he brought with him two men who are quite fond of him.

They aren't too surprised when they see Mariah Rutledge again, Spencer remembers some details about her, but they are all surprised when they realise that she's heavily pregnant.

Marriage follows but so does the intrigue and mystery of a plot to bring down England. A plot they feel they have to do something about. The past is coming to haunt them and to involve another person.

Mariah is a great character, full of vim and vigour and more used to a life on an outpost rather than the staid life in England. She made the book for me. Spencer wasn't as strong a hold. ( )