In the final decade of the 19th century, mysterious widow, Hester Appleyard, arrives in Aus­tralia, haunted by a secret past. Here, in the new world, she establishes a successful school for young ladies.

Hester’s three star pupils and a governess have disappeared. Led by a dogged Sergeant, local men search for the missing. Has something supernatural befallen them? Or has a human out­rage occurred?

The missing Rothschild heiress, Irma Leopold, has been found, remarkably unharmed, but claiming to remember nothing. Meanwhile, rumors spread and the Sergeant turns his attention to the College.

Hester struggles to contain mounting hysteria as aftershocks from the disappearance continue to disrupt the old order. A mysterious visitor summons memories of Hester’s dark past, whilst Sara seeks escape from the college.

French governess, Mademoiselle, is growing increasingly suspicious of Mrs. Appleyard’s er­ratic behavior, and fears the worst when she is told that Sara was unexpectedly collected by her guardian, unseen by any other staff.

Hester has grown increasingly certain that her vengeful husband is behind the disappearances and is coming after her. As she prepares to flee, the arrival of Sara’s guardian provides conclusive proof of Mrs. Appleyard’s lies.