Catherine Avalon is bright, confident, inquisitive and ready for adventure. On a visit to Applewood Court, in the year 1790, she encounters intrigue, ancient love stories, witches and anti-Government plots. Cathy is determined to discover the mystery of the missing document that holds state secrets. Her brother wants her to marry his oldest friend, but Cathy is determined not to have an arranged marriage. She meets the handsome rake, Charles Varney, and instantly falls for his charms.