A Mother's Courage by Maggie Hope

Restless and heavy with child, Mary paces the verandah of her new plantation home, consumed by the agonizing suspicion that her husband Morgan has taken a mistress. As the oppressive island heat beats down on the cotton fields and laborers alike, she reflects on Morgan's chilling control and her growing dread of his nighttime visits. With her unborn son's future inheritance hanging in the balance, Mary resolves to fiercely protect her child's rights against any rival. Yet, as she awaits Morgan's return from his prolonged journeys, the true depth of his betrayals remains terrifyingly close to home.