Under the tranquil surface of life in the tiny village of Round Ringford, trouble is brewing. From the Post Office Stores, Peggy Palmer sees her new marriage threatened. Fighting jealousy and suspicion, she battles with herself as well as husband Bill's former wife, Joyce. Across the road at Ringford School, turmoil begins with Sarah Drinkwater's appointment as headteacher. Young, attractive and full of new ideas, Sarah comes in like the March wind, oblivious to traditional village opposition. But not all are against her, and her charms have an uncomfortable effect on John Barnett, confirmed bachelor and local farmer. When the school is threatened with closure, Sarah's brave fight for survival changes many minds, though not that of Ivy Beasley, odd villager out, whose dreams and schemes have a powerful effect on events. Future lives depend on the final decision. Will it be heartbreak or celebration? Round Ringford awaits its fate anxiously.