Bored by endless balls and dull dance companions her stepmother forces her to entertain, Tatika feels trapped - trapped by society norms and the inevitable marriage to the odious and terrifying Lord Crowley. But what was she to do as she is faced with the prospect of marriage to a man twice her age, or the beating she will receive, if she refuses? To escape, Tatika runs away to Scotland, and under an assumed name becomes a paid companion to the Dowager Duchess of Strathcraig at Castle Craig. But despite her freedom, the Castle is surrounded by mysteries and whisperings of murder, which would soon put her life at risk. How Tatika discovers the secrets of the Castle, how she finally escapes the clutches of the despicable Lord Crowley and how her fear turns to love, are all told in this thrilling Scottish adventure.