To avoid an unwanted marriage, Lady Cordelia Rowley must run away to the Highlands and disguise herself as a servant until her 21st birthday when she comes of legal age and regains control of her destiny. Captain Lachlan Shawe has found success and wealth in the Royal Navy, but he's made a few enemies too. While dodging the efforts of a dangerous assassin, Lachlan must find a capable, sensible wife to run his estate before his leave ends. Even though his childhood sweetheart has renewed her interest in him, Lachlan is drawn to an intriguing chamber maid who stirs something in him he let grow cold in the midst of the grim realities of war.

The peculiar behavior of Airship Captain Melville inspires many rumors, but one curious midshipman finds himself drawn to her. Determined to find out why she prowls the decks at night like a phantom, Officer Byron Coyle risks his position to uncover the truth.