Since being widowed, Caroline Dering has been content to live her life solely for her children. Then the mysterious Robert Shepperton arrives in the village. At first, Caroline's gentle heart is simply touched by his obvious unhappiness; until gradually she finds her sympathy turning into love. But the visit of her lovely younger sister, Harriet, to Vittoria Cottage, throws Caroline into a turmoil — because Harriet also falls for Mr Shepperton…It was not until now, when she thought she had lost Robert, that Caroline discovered how much he meant to her…But with her beloved, glamorous sister Harriet evidently winning his friendship and admiration, what can be done…?