This epic western historical novel revolves around a dynamic ship's captain, who becomes the major transporter of food and supplies to General Zachary Taylor's armies battling General Santa Anna's forces on both sides of the Rio Grande during the Mexican War of the 1840s. His fleet of steamships and inland supply columns are continually under attack, and he fights to survive during several battles. Filled with historical figures, including presidents and generals, the story is rich in moral complexity and period details as the USA forces Mexico into a war it can't win.