Ortolans was a magnificent stately house, built by a gently flowing river. The gracious and beautiful old home that holds a mysterious grip on all those who live in it, and hides a secret which the Calverley family were not to discover for 400 years. Three passionate, remarkable women play a vital part in the long, violent history of the house. In the 18th Century there is Eleanor, forced into an unhappy marriage with a ruthless adventurer plotting to take over the property. In the 19th Century there is hot-headed Sophia, prepared to risk everything to save it. And in the 20th Century there is Emma, the modern woman who wanted it all: the career; the man and the ancestral house. She loves Ortolans but refuses to sacrifice her career for its sake, even if it means letting it fall into ruins. But just when it seems all is lost, the house finally gives up its incredible secret...