Ortolans - a magnificent house, which held a mysterious grip on those who lived in it, hides a secret the Calverley family did not discover for four hundred years.

Three passionate, remarkable women were to play a vital role during Ortalans' long, violent history. First there was Eleanor, forced into an unhappy marriage to a ruthless adventurer plotting to take over the house. Then hot-headed Sophia, prepared to risk everything to keep the house and finally Emma, the modern woman who wanted it all: the career; the man and the house. Just when it seemed all was lost, Ortolans finally gave up its incredible secret.