1925 - The Midland Canals Born on the canals feisty Beth Dawson knows danger lurks in the shadows. When she falls victim to a vicious attack and knowing she might be pregnant she quickly marries a fellow boatman. Her mundane existence is interrupted by the arrival of Anthony Wesley whose mission is to organise the impoverished boatmen for strike action. Anthony makes her feel valued and she wants to help the cause in any way she can. Along the way she makes friends with rebellious Abigail Gatehouse daughter of the owner of the company. She too is in love with Anthony and sensing the attraction between them Abigail is overcome with jealousy. Both young women are soon caught up in events that spiral out of control. Only time will tell where the future lies for either of them. In the meantime it's all about survival. . .