In Round Ringford, as the world over, appearances all too often belie reality. At first sight, the villagers are preparing for a blissful, old-fashioned summer as only they can: organising the events in which they all participate. But everyone's attention is really on two new arrivals: Simon Standing, returned from America to live at the Hall, and the debonair George Chalmer. As the leisurely, delightful summer unfolds, all would seem to be harmonious - until suddenly, Poppy Standing makes a revelation that splits the village and poisons Simon's blossoming romance. Is she telling the truth? And is George Chalmer the gentleman he seems?