Witnessing the events that occur behind closed eyes, Cassandra must learn to mask and conquer the limitations and expectations of regency society.
Caught between childhood and adulthood, Cassandra Dingham finds that every role in her life is pre-determined and painstakingly observed.
As the fiery relationship between Cass and her brother, Charles is displayed; their confrontations become more dangerous, climaxing over his desire for her to marry a man, whose behaviour leaves Cass defenceless, drained and dirtier.
Once again Cass and society close their eyes to these actions, not only to survive but to overcome them– a feat aided by the support of Cass’s closest friend. As the dynamics of the relationships change, and the wounds left by Cass’s and Charles’s parents’ deaths reopen, the siblings must learn to understand each other once more.
In the midst of this, Cass watches as her closest friends choose vastly different paths between conforming and rebellion, using their experiences to shape her own.
However, Cass cannot help but follow them in their conquest for love. As unrequited relationships lead all members to confront their childhoods and find forgiveness before they can comfortably find each other.