In a previous novel by this author, A Surprising Legacy, the principal characters, Amos and Sarah Carlisle, settle into a quiet country life after their earlier nomadic existence in a gipsy caravan. Their fortunes improve when Sarah and her daughter Ruth inherit the estate of Sarah's childhood sweetheart (Ruth's father), who was killed in action while serving in King George's army in the colonies of the New World.
Their peaceful life is disrupted by the arrival of a man claiming to be Sarah's childhood sweetheart, Joseph Craven, long believed dead. However, his severe facial disfigurement prevents recognition, and although he claims memory loss due to his injuries, his story is supported by another man of apparent standing who says he served alongside him.
The family is divided over whether the inheritance should be returned, at least in part. Joseph's existence must remain secret, as discovery could lead to a death sentence for desertion. Amos is convinced the man and his associates are frauds, while Sarah is nearly persuaded otherwise. Ruth, who never knew her father, hopes desperately that Joseph is genuine. The dilemma centres on legality and Christian morality.
The narrative also references historical events including the Boston Tea Party, the lead-up to the American War of Independence, the East India Company at Machilipatnam, the cholera outbreak among British troops, Lintin Island as a smuggling base, and the Opium War with China.
