August 1781. Tom Boyd returns in disgrace from France to his family in Scotland. He manages to find a job with a wealthy Ayrshire merchant, but just as his personal and professional prospects seem to be improving, his life is put in danger when he discovers someone in the firm is involved in smuggling. Shortly after he intervenes to protect a young woman who is being assaulted, he is accused of murder. With his family and friends he must race against time to find the culprit and escape the gallows. Alex Wright crafts a believable tale in the dialogue and flavour of the late 18th century that will appeal to fans of the period in this very Scottish novel.