The year is 1598. Sam Gilburne is an apprentice actor and member of the Lord Chamberlain's Men, appearing in the roles created by famous playwright William Shakespeare. While onstage, Sam notices the lovely Lady Lucie Cheetham, niece of Lord Essex, a favourite of Queen Elizabeth. The two meet on several occasions and begin to fall in love. But when Lord Essex is convicted of treason and sent to the Tower, there are repercussions for his whole family. Can Sam save Lucie? And can they really have a life together though Sam is merely a lowly actor?