John Thornton appears to be a successful self-made man, and a leading figure in Victorian England's manufacturing town of Milton. But his outward facade hides the reality. The only beacon of light in his life is when he attends weekly lessons with Richard Hale, and has the chance to catch a glimpse of his tutor's daughter, Margaret. Despite having previously proposed and been refused, John's love for Margaret is steadfast. An unexpected event allows John to help her when no one else will, bringing them closer, and making Margaret question her earlier perception of the brooding mill master. Margaret's life is no less troubled. She longs for a measure of control, having been sent unwillingly to live with relatives for much of her youth, and the necessity of conforming with their wishes. But when tragedy strikes, she once again must bend to the will of her family. A deception borne from greed stands in the way of John and Margaret's second chance, and John will need help from friends and family if he is to uncover the truth. No one has ever fought for Margaret - until now.