After she leaves her husband—shocking society and bringing disgrace on her family—Cassandra Stanfield's father banishes her to a remote cottage in Wales, with no company except her carping elder sister. Cassandra struggles to adjust to a life of forced repentance, but despair threatens to overwhelm her. One morning she meets a neighbor, Dr. John Carter, who engages her in exciting and intriguing new adventures. Working with Dr. Carter adds value and meaning to life for both Cassie and her sister. But Cassie's estranged husband wants an heir and refuses to divorce her. How can she return to living with coldness and neglect after experiencing the joy of warm companionship, and how can she bury her growing regard for John in the stifling atmosphere of a loveless marriage?