London, 1848 - for the last two years, following an attack of scarlet fever, Winifred Hathaway has been an invalid. She's been told she can do nothing but succumb to her illness, but her bright and optimistic nature means she will not accept such a fate. She has too much to live for, namely the handsome Merripen. The gypsy-bred Merripen will do anything to protect Win - even hide his true feelings and break her heart. However, nothing can stand in the way of true love...