As Spain simmers on the very edge of civil war and families are being torn apart by their political allegiances, Mary, a young Irish girl, arrives to work as a governess with the Areavaga family. Enter the Areavag's handsome young son, Francisco. Mary is drawn to his fiery politics and passionate opinions, which are at odds with the government, as well as with his wife. Mary and Francisco find themselves at the heart of a family and a nation divided. Mary irrevocably alters the lives of those around her, as her beauty and innocence arouses a love both forbidden and profound.