Julia and William Ransome just returned from England to Tierra Dulce, their sugar plantation in Jamaica. They've been married just seven short weeks. William's sister, Charlotte, is here as well; however she has arrived by a little different route. She snuck on one of Commodore Ransome's ships, disguised as a midshipman, and almost made it all the way before being discovered. As Charlotte and her fiance, Ned Cochrane, are enjoying a kiss on the porch of the plantation, someone hits Ned on the head and kidnaps Charlotte.

William sets out to find his sister's kidnapper, taking both of his ships with Ned in command of one. They quickly learn that this is probably an act of the pirate, Shaw, and also discover where he hides his ships. As they set sail, they come upon another ship, commanded by William's brother, James Ransome. William shares his intentions with James, but commands him to continue on his way back to England. James has never taken orders from William very well and sets out himself to find Shaw and rescue Charlotte.

Meanwhile, Charlotte's real kidnapper, Salvador, realizes he has taken the wrong woman. It was Julia that he intended to take. As he stops at a port to learn where he can find Shaw, he learns that Shaw has kidnapped Julia as well. This is just what Salvador was trying to avoid. He knew of Shaw's intentions and tried to get to her first. Now he has to find Shaw and rescue Julia.

In their quest through the Caribbean waters to find Shaw, Salvador and William Ransome find each other. They combine their efforts, though Ransome is not sure he can trust a pirate. Shaw's ship, meanwhile, overtakes James Ransome's ship and takes him captive as well. Will all the captives be found in time? Can Salvador be trusted to keep his end of their bargain? And what is the reason behind these kidnappings in the first place?

Kaye Dacus has given us another compelling historic adventure that will draw you in from the beginning and won't let you go until you reach the book's end. This is an inspirational story of two strong women who stand up for what they think is right and of the men who love them. It reminds us that no matter what separates us, we can always hold our loved ones in our hearts. RANSOME'S QUEST is the last book in the Ransome Trilogy. It stands alone, though, as an enchanting romantic escapade. Do not miss this story.