In 1807, Roddy Greenbank is brought by his father to Northumberland, and orphaned shortly after their arrival when his father meets a brutal death. Adopted by his father's friend Kate Makepeace, Roddy forges friendships with Hal Roystan and Mary Ellen Lee.

Roddy falls for and paints the portrait of a beautiful mystery woman, which helps him win a scholarship to art school.

Roddy befriends Alfred Cottle during his first day at art school in Newcastle; Hal's obsessed with seeking revenge for his father's death.

Mary Ellen gets a taste of the herbalist trade after moving in with Kate. Meanwhile, Roddy's affair with Madeleine gets steamier than he imagines while Hal purchases a farm.

Hal and Mary-Ellen's marriage remains strong after 25 years. Roddy returns from Paris to hold an exhibition of his work in Newcastle.

Kate takes the initiative and decides to introduce Ben to her family. Meanwhile, a jealous Maggie divulges every last detail about Ben's secret, and Hal finds himself struggling to accept the situation.