1831: as England emerges from the post war depression the country is changing & the birth pains of the Reform Act bring it to the brink of revolution. The violent times breed violent acts both outside & inside the Morland family. Sophie's life is shattered by a hideous crime. Rosamund learns that achieving her dreams brings as much pain as pleasure. Heloise mourning her beloved James lets control of Morland Place fall into chaos- Benedict has to flee his home & makes a life amongst the railway pioneers while Nicholas now has the freedom to indulge the dark side of his nature. & amongst them all stalks the deadly invisible threat of cholera.