1952: Ellen Kingsley travels to Gildersleve Hall in Cambridgeshire to work for renowned scientist Marcus Pharaoh. But her pride in her new career falters as she finds herself caught up in the rivlaries desires and ambitions of her colleagues. When a tragedy occurs the course of Ellen’s life is changed for ever. In London Ellen encounters an old friend India Mayhew. But the events at Gildersleve continue to cast a shadow and India’s involvement with Pharaoh ignites a trail of destruction. After Ellen falls in love with dashing Scotsman Alec Hunter both women must confront the revelations and passions of the past before their path to future happiness becomes clear. (proof)