No one really wants Kate at Allt Farr, the rambling house in Scotland that sometimes seems more of an albatross than an inheritance to the Munro family. A fragile 'townie', Kate is unused to the rigours of country life, particularly in winter, and constantly finds herself irritates Max Munro with her ignorance. But her gentle ways and cheerful willingness to tackle any chore quickly endear her to Max's mother and sisters, and when disaster strikes, Kate finds that she has earned a place at the heart of the family.