June 1821. Once admired for ingenious inventions that aided England’s navy, engineer Marc Isambard Brunel now lies broken in debtors’ prison. Though his innovations brought victory against Napoleonic France, accolades turned to accusations over his French roots. Now the fetid decay of King’s Bench Gaol repays his service.

Yet Brunel’s determination remains unbowed. With steadfast wife Sophia ever by his side, he contends daily for freedom from this unjust fate. Beset by misfortunes, will he be forced to abandon his adopted England as he did his homeland? At what cost to his family – especially his beloved son, Isambard?

This vivid portrayal illuminates a pioneering mind undone by the nation he served. Yet even stripped of acclaim and liberty, Brunel perseveres, a testament to irrepressible vision and spirit. His timeless struggle resonates still, for no bars can cage the soaring heights of human endeavour and hope.