Someone is trying to murder Sarah Havestock and her son, Edward. His tutor, and veteran of the Peninsular War, Captain Oliver Mayhew is the ideal man to protect them and root out the perpetrators. Having accepted the position with the sole intention of charming his employer into matrimony, the attacks give him the perfect opportunity to further his aims. Indeed, as the danger escalates, Sarah comes to rely on him more and more - but before they can find happiness they both seek, they must face the evil stalks them.