Rose Gwynn is determined to study as a physician in 1796 in England, a time when women were barred from medical school. When she prevails in assisting the local doctor, Rose uncovers a shocking secret that will threaten Dr. Nelson's livelihood. Servant Catern Tresidder returns to the Cornish village to confront the man who raped her and committed murder. After Rose's sister is betrothed to this brutal earl, Catern struggles with her demons to warn Rose of the truth. Rose's attraction to a man far beneath her further complicates her situation. Three people fight society's dictates to either face ruin or forge a happy ending. Through it all, the ancient stone circle near Rose's house holds the key to her family's past, and is positioned through the myths of Cornwall to save her sister's life.