Growing up as a schoolmaster's daughter in rural Scotland, Kirsty Robertson has always dreamt of following in her father's footsteps and becoming a schoolmistress. And when her father dies suddenly, she becomes even more determined to make him proud.
Dedicated to her career, Kirsty knows she can't let love get in her way. She spurns the advances of her childhood friend, Jamie, a farmhand. But soon, she finds herself increasingly drawn to Hugh, the laird's son, whose family she knows would never approve of him marrying a poor schoolteacher.
When World War I breaks out, and Hugh leaves to fight, Kirsty knows her future is in question once more.
Soon, Kirsty finds herself alone and hiding a shameful secret. Will she be able to keep the truth away from village gossips and protect her family? Will she ever find true happiness again?