The war with the Republic of Haven has resumed... disastrously for the Star Kingdom of Manticore. Admiral Lady Honor Harrington, landowner and Duchess Harrington, the only commander of the alliance for whom the new war began with victory, is recalled from the Sidemore system to take command of the Eighth Fleet. Everyone knows that the Eighth Fleet is the main striking force of the alliance and the most natural destination for the woman nicknamed “Salamander” by reporters. But what most DO NOT know is that the Star Kingdom and its allies are not only outnumbered by the new Republic fleet, but this gap will only worsen over time.