When beautiful, free-spirited Rebecca Westbrook - daughter of Morwellham Quay's respected harbourmaster - meets sophisticated Captain Adam Bradley, she confounds all expectations by being anything but charmed by the good looks, perfect courtesy and smouldering sexuality that make Bradley so reminiscent of Jane Austen's Darcy. On the contrary, Rebecca is angered by Bradley's superior manner, and repulsed by his solicitude towards her.

For Rebecca's heart belongs to Tom Mason, a young cooper she has known all her life. Her father is insistent the pair wait until Tom is financially secure before they publicly court, but the pain of separation drives Rebecca to desperate measures, her passion overriding all sense. Then one day tragedy strikes and Rebecca is forced to face the terrible consequences of her actions . . .

Rich in detail, and vivid in characterisation, this is a first-class debut saga of spirit, tragedy and an over-riding sense of love.