Eleanor is seventeen when she goes to the Loire Valley on a French exchange. But the beauty of her surroundings is at odds with the family who live there. It is a family torn apart by the terrible legacy of the German occupation, and poisoned by the secrets they keep. Eleanor is drawn to Etienne, the dark and brooding owner, though his wife's malicious behaviour overshadows their lives. But when death comes to the vineyard, Eleanor finds her faith in her new-found love is tested to the limits.