With Elizabeth on the throne and Maria now married to Hugo, all seems calm at Heron. But the plague is to strike Harriet, wife to the Kendal heir, Allan. 

          Despite his grief, a new mistress for Heron must be found. With the arrival of Eloise Ballantyne a bitter rivalry ensues. For while Allan needs her affection, she desires no morethan his inheritance, and looks to this younger brother, Martin, for love. 

          As rumours of a war with Spain grow, family conflict intensifies. But strength is born out of suffering. And as the English claim victory over the Spanish fleet, the dark shadows over Heron finally lift.