The mid-17th century: Scotland is torn apart by a civil war between the Covenanters and the Royalists. King Charles I entrusts the brilliant and proud Earl of Montrose with leading the Highlanders on a campaign to the north, to turn the tide of the war. At the heart of the story are military stratagems, a family vendetta, a love triangle, and the appearance of one of Walter Scott’s most colorful characters—the captain of the Delggetty, a mercenary who is equally devoted to the war and to his own profit. The historical storm serves as the backdrop for a test of human hearts.