Recently widowed, following a marriage of convenience, Madeleine Corning grieves for the loss of her baby son. She's grateful for the protection of her late husband's cousin, Cornelius, although her loyal servant Ellen believes he's not trustworthy - and that her child still lives. Should Madeleine turn to stranger William Franklyn for help - but why has he been watching her house? And he is not the only one, it seems. She must undergo danger and treachery to unravel the truth.