As the American Revolution rages on the mainland, the British Navy prepares for action at sea. Against a growing fleet of American and French privateers, the Navy must maintain its blockade of Washington's vital military supplies. Richard Bolitho has to make momentous decisions.
As the French enter the American War of Independence young Richard Bolitho is given command of the fast, well-armed sloop Sparrow. He has a chance to prove his ability but danger threatens as real and deadly as the enemy itself.