The story, which takes place mostly in England, has Sharpe uncovering a scheme to "crimp" (auction off) trained soldiers instead of sending them as replacements to Sharpe's regiment in Spain.

There are the usual ups and downs as Sharpe faces political forces he little understands and has little patience for. He, of course, triumphs in the end and wins the fair maiden in the bargain.

The epilogue describes the battle of Nivelle as British troops move into France for the first time. The description of the fighting, as always, is outstanding.

All in all a very satisfying story, which was so exciting, I finished it in two days.