Brandy Beauchamp inherits a long-established bed and breakfast on Vancouver Island from an old friend. It needs energy and commitment if the beautiful but shabby property is to be restored. With her five year old daughter Maggie, Brandy moves to British Columbia and sets about building a new life - only to discover that a local property developer has very different plans. The quirky old house is symbolic of the strange characters peopling this novel, each one a composite of its influences - as the house is a composite of its owners. Brandy Beauchamp's success becomes our success, despite treachery, adversity and misfortune.