A tragic historical romance set amid moorland estates depicts a long-standing family feud that ruins a young woman's prospects when she is compelled into an unwanted marriage. Political calculations and secret engagements produce betrayal, violent reprisals, and a public catastrophe that leaves survivors haunted by guilt and grief. Narration mixes omniscient storytelling with local reports and documents, creating a gothic atmosphere that emphasizes honor, parental authority, superstition, and the psychological collapse that follows enforced duty.