Helpless, Saran Chandler stands by as her mother and younger sister are sold by her vile stepfather Enoch Jacobs, herself narrowly escaping from the same fate. When Enoch drowns, Saran swears that she will not rest until she has secured her family's release, but peniless and friendless, barely knows where to start. However, when Fate casts young Luke Hipton into her path, Saran finds a loyal companion. Together they make their way to Wednesbury, where Saran's courage and virtue bring their own rewards.