The feared Captain Tom Leach, master of the pirate ship Black Swan, has captured the enchanting Miss Harradine, who unleashes storms of passion and jealousy merely by her presence on board. Tom Leach's rival, Monsieur de Bernis, an adventurer in his own right, wins the heart of the beautiful woman through his bravery, sharp wit, and gallantry. How he manages to outmaneuver the violent pirate Leach with daring tactics and turn fate in his and his beloved's favor is told by Sabatini with suspense and audacious elegance.