Rowena Westhope, a widow of twenty-four years old, having returned to her home after the death of her husband in the war, led a quiet, boring life, as befits her situation. While rescuing her restless younger sister from yet another trouble, the woman meets James Winterly, a representative of an aristocratic family. The first repulsive impression that a man makes on her, despite her beauty and visible advantages, upon closer acquaintance is replaced first by interest, and then by love. This happens after, violating decency, Rowena overhears his frank conversation with his brother under the window. She realizes that James is not at all the person he seems. There are many secrets, pain and losses in his life. Even though they are from different worlds, James and Rowena have a lot in common and can help each other find happiness.