1793. John Pearce and his Pelicans are homeward bound, determined to put the treacherous Captain Ralph Barclay in the dock. But first they must evacuate Toulon where the Republican Army and the threat of the guillotine wreak havoc. Pearce must keep his wits about him in order to survive.

Barclay and his wife Emily are sharing the voyage home and Pearce must stay close to both – difficult given his loathing for the captain and his feelings for Emily. Then she discovers the incriminating evidence Pearce holds against her husband, papers that could destroy his career and potentially her security.

Back on British soil following a gruelling voyage, the Pelicans hope their troubles are over, but with the important documents missing, their real concerns are just beginning. Emily holds the key, but do her loyalties lie with her husband or her conscience?