Elizabeth, 19, falls pregnant after a brief affair with an actor. Her family force her to marry a widower with a large family of small children.

Elizabeth begins life in exile at a remote farm on the desolate Beara Peninsula, and learns to cope with motherhood and a loveless marriage. It is a stark contrast to her priviledged background. Only the frivolity of the village dance offers a momentary escape from the harsh reality.

And it is there that fate takes a hand, when an inpulsive flirtation transforms Elizabeth's life forever.

Through the desperate turmoil of ensuing events, Elizabeth grows to realise that happiness is within reach. True love is hers, but only when she has come to know who she is - and who she desires…