Julie Copp

Taken From The Officers' Deck Julie Copp

Halifax against the backdrop of World War II, a unique insight into the time, the terror and the temptations of ordinary people. Wars are seldom won by the poorest contender. He who has the most and the best has the advantage. And it takes purchasing power. WW2 is no different, and as Germany swallows Europe, the Allies begin to move their gold and valuables out of Hitler's path. Over the course of a year, Britain, France, and Poland manage to ship more tons of gold than has moved on this earth before or since. The gold will buy the materiel they will need to win the coming conflicts. The treasure comes in boats both large and small through the port of Halifax, Nova Scotia onto a heavily guarded, secret train that moves the wealth to safety in the vaults of the Bank of Canada in Ottawa. Percy Burke was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, but he does not allow it to influence him. With honest business practices and the admiration of many, he holds the city of Halifax in his hands. Under his able direction, the treasure is moved surely to its destination. On the personal side, he has been unlucky in love, despite gentle dealings with women. He is a man hungry for a second chance. Halifax promises Miss Darla Davenport what every young woman wants - a good life and someone to love. Instead, the war puts Halifax into upheaval and her with it. The benefit of a safe distance from the action quickly loses its appeal for Darla. Instead, one wrong decision puts her on track to collide with the treasure and a man too charming to resist.