Set in the early nineteenth century, this is the story of an orphaned and adventurous John Penmarric who leaves his home in Cornwall to seek a quick fortune. Following treachery and intrigue, he is compelled to flee the British Isles to meet his destiny in Hindustan among the most sinister mass murderers that ever walked the earth. In a land barely recovered from the turbulence of the Maratha war and laid waste by the Pindari hoards, John finds himself embroiled in a campaign against the sinister Thugee.