This early novel has many story lines. Central character Anne Ross is still young at age 23, but her maturity and reserve lead some to think she is already a confirmed spinster. Anne is determined to clear up a mystery about a murder, and thereby to clear the name of her brother Norman who vanished long ago. She goes for emotional support to Mrs Catherine, a strong single woman who is at the head of a large estate (in effect she is the laird), and who has a positive influence on the lives of those about her. Anne's friend Marjory Falconer is a tomboy who does what she pleases, wears what she pleases, and preaches women's rights. The reserved Anne encourages Marjory to be more "e;womanly"e; - which seems to be the young author's point of view too!