In the late 1700s in the Highlands of Scotland, Fiona MacKenzie returns from living in London and comes of age during desperate times. On the verge of womanhood, Fiona struggles with conflicting emotions; her anguish at her grandfather's death, her hatred of the occupying English forces under a ruthless commander, and her first love, Ian Campbell.

Determined to follow her beloved and help rescue a fugitive Scottish patriot, Fiona sets out for London in pursuit of justice, adventure, and true love.

Meanwhile her mother and stepfather are in India, in Bengal, and meet anguish and death during the revolt and defeat of the British forces there. Among the survivors of the infamous " Black Hole of Calcutta", are a mere handful of men, one of whom makes it back to England with Fiona's newborn brother.