The year is 1776. The American colonies are in revolt against the British Empire.
The Scottish-born sailor John Paul Jones has joined the fledgling American Navy - and is already starting to make his mark. Congress has recognised his talents and put him in command of the sloop Providence, made available by the cowardice and duplicity of her first commander.
Over the next three months, he proves his ability with a series of daring raids - making himself both a fortune and a reputation. But as his fame grows, John Paul Jones is also starting to acquire powerful enemies - on both sides of the Atlantic ocean he sails with such skill. And after he is elevated to the command of the Alfred, the largest ship in the American Navy, he faces the deadliest battle of his career - and one that will test his seamanship, and sense of justice, to the limit.