The novel follows the story of Richard Wilding, a young Englishman who is sent to the Caribbean island of St. Kitts to manage a sugar plantation owned by his uncle. Richard is determined to make a success of the plantation, but he soon finds himself in a difficult situation. He is torn between his loyalty to his uncle and his growing feelings for the beautiful and mysterious Mistress Wilding, the daughter of a local planter. Richard soon discovers that Mistress Wilding is not who she appears to be. She is actually a French spy, sent to the island to gather information about the English forces stationed there. Richard is forced to choose between his loyalty to his uncle and his love for Mistress Wilding. The novel is set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, and explores themes of loyalty, love, and betrayal. It is a classic adventure story, full of romance, intrigue, and suspense.
By Rafael Sabatini · First published 1910 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Adventure · 24 chapters