A sweeping novel of love and war based on the infamous, real-life affair between Lord Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton—from the author of The Highwayman.

1793, Naples. One of the most tempestuous love affairs in history is about to begin. Europe has been shaken by the recent revolution in France, and the old monarchies wage war to stop its flames of rebellion from spreading to their own lands; at the forefront is Britain and the might of the royal navy.

With each victory, Horatio Nelson's status rises: his independent spirit and dash have won him much renown. But it is not enough. After suffering a rare setback, Nelson finds himself in the Bay of Naples on a diplomatic mission where he encounters the ambassador's wife, Lady Emma Hamilton. In each other, they find the solace missing from both their lives at a moment that could not have been more critical. Together they set tongues wagging across the civilized world with their ardent, open liaison, but their relationship would prove more lasting than any scandal it provoked. Only the death of Nelson could end it . . .