Port of Deal, Kent 1817
The Lennickers live in a cottage in one of the narrow alleyways off Middle Street, among the counting houses, shops and inns, where the smugglers plot and the seamen drink rum. When Pa Lennicker - a Deal boatman, fisherman and smuggler - is murdered by a rival gang over the disappearance of some contraband, the sisters are forced to carve out a living from the 'honourable trade' in spirits, French lace, gold and jewellery. But most of all, they must find a way of wreaking their revenge.
The sisters - Louisa, Winnie and Grace - find themselves involved in carrying and hiding contraband. They prepare the goods for sale - diluting brandy and cutting tea with rose leaves - while at risk of being discovered by revenue officers and rival smugglers. They receive goods from ships wrecked on the treacherous Goodwin Sands a few miles off the coast, and become involved with transferring prisoners of war and gold on the guinea boats to France.
If they are caught, they risk imprisonment, transportation or death by hanging, something that can be avoided by turning in King's evidence. But they will have to mind their backs to avoid being tarred and feathered - or worse - for their betrayal.