Set at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, this is the story of the orphaned Penry children, forced to flee from the cruel and unjust employment in north west Devon. Janet, the resourceful older daughter, takes charge of Amy and Tom, hiding them from their pursuers, and tending the injuries they have sustained from beatings and abuse. Janet heads for Cornwall, but is slowed by the pain and fever suffered by Tom from a dog bite in his leg. Amy too is suffering from a recent beating. They follow the Northern Coastal path but soon find themselves in danger from footpads who seek money, food...

The 1914 ? 18 War is over. Tom Penry listed as missing presumed dead returns to Blackberry Cottage in the woods at Indian Queens. His grieving sisters Janet and Amy hear that a stranger has moved into their old home and hurry to see. Friend Joe Treggorran is sure it's Tom but the man insists that he is Jack Travers and locks himself away when they come. Nineteen year old Rowan Berryman who was sure she saw a unicorn when she was twelve, wanders the woods rescuing sick or injured animals and birds, comes upon Tom fishing. He finds that he can relate to her as she is shy and quiet. When she...