A government reeling from a mismanaged war in the Crimea risks further embarrassment with the threat of rebellion in India. Ruth Hewitt's husband is posted to India, commanding a convoy of reinforcements. She works with the doctor on his frigate as an informal medical practitioner.Ruth provides medical care to the troops fighting the rebels in India but hears that an act of Parliament will shortly ban her, and all women, from medical practice. Their small column of Queen's Troops march south to destroy an enemy who greatly outnumber them.Ruth comes to rely heavily on the son of the Bombay superintendent who has been sent to protect her. As fears grow for their survival Ruth knows her gratitude to him has evolved into a passionate love.If she survives can she rebuild her professional and personal life and at what price to her happiness?