London, 1849, is a city in fear - cholera is everywhere. MP Sir Charles Cooper decides to send his younger daughter, the strangely beautiful and troubled Harriet, to the countryside. Rusholme is a world away from London, full of extraordinary relations, including cousin Edward, who plans a new life in New Zealand. However, the countryside can offer only temporary respite to Harriet, who longs to return to her beloved sister, Mary. But when she does come home, London is even more dangerous and escape is essential. Can Harriet board the AMARYLLIS without being discovered? Does she realise that more than one person will pursue her, literally to the end of the world?