Lieutenant Philip Williams thought his career as an English mercenary was over after surviving the sack of Calais by the Spanish in 1596. If only he knew his troubles were just beginning. 

While recovering in a hospital in Antwerp, a distant relative arrives to dangle an irresitable offer in front of him: The Royal Irish army. All of Ireland is in an open revolt and Queen Elizabeth is going to war. The time to strike is now. As the army trains in Dublin, it will need experienced English officers to lead it. Buoyed by the chance to fight for Queen and Country, Philip accepts, bringing along some old friends who also survived Calais. 

Once in Ireland, Philip meets two Irishwomen. Nualla asks for his aid while Colleen asks for his heart. Will he be able to protect either of them from the coming violence? 

As Philip trains his new company, old grudges tear at the fabric of the army. Meanwhile, Irish rebels and Scottish mercenaries raid and the survivors whisper the name of a monster. Solomon Red Beard O’Donnell. Will Philip and his friends have enough time to turn Irish peasants into soldiers? If they don’t Solomon Red Beard will spread the rebellion and Ireland will be lost.