"There came a moment, she imagined, in the lives of most unmarried daughters, and perhaps in other people’s too, when they must either bolt or go permanently under."

Since her mother’s death, Jennifer has devoted years of her life to her father, managing the family home and acting as his secretary. After the sudden announcement that her father has married again, Jennifer, at 33, seizes the opportunity to lead an independent life. Quickly she secures the lease of Rose Cottage and turns her attention to her own needs and interests.