1862 and a second Confederate cruiser ordered by James Bulloch is nearing completion at the John Laird shipyard in Birkenhead, Liverpool. Known only as the Hull '290', this new ship is viewed with deep suspicion by the American Consul, representing the Union. Cornelius Quinn, a former sergeant with the Indian Army is awaiting execution for the murder of a fellow NCO. Quinn has been transported back to England and is incarcerated on the prison hulk 'Aurora' but Vice Admiral Seymour arranges for Quinn to be freed with the promise of a pardon. His singular task is to protect James Bulloch and the '290' at all costs Quinn finds his hands are full and there are few he finds he can trust. Murder, kidnappings and blackmail are combined with a heady mixture of intrigue and brutal revenge in this thrilling adventure.