Set in the English countryside in the early twentieth century, this novel revolves around the lovely, free-spirited Annie Hannigan who gives her heart to Terence Macbane, the elusive boy next door. Terence reciprocates her feelings but the lovers have to contend with Cathleen's jealousy and Brian's possessive attitude towards Annie. Tormented by unrequited love and the knowledge of her own illegitimate birth, Annie decides to become a nun­but real rescue lies in the hands of Terence Macbane. Will he act in time to save her?