“You should consider yourself fortunate not to have lost your heart to another, for I cannot recommend it.”

From an early age, Sarah Cranshaw has exhibited an unladylike interest in scientific pursuits. Whether it's memorising train timetables or stargazing on her telescope, such pursuits have earned her the nickname of bluestocking in her Oxfordshire village. But behind the eccentric demeanour she presents to the world, there lies a secret. For years, Sarah has been obsessed with the handsome but roguish Mr Templeton. She knows, of course, that she has little hope of earning his affection in return, but still she yearns for him.

Then along comes war weary Benjamin Stanton, intent on licking his wounds. Slowly, he is brought back to life by Sarah Cranshaw, the odd but interesting young woman he befriended years ago on his last visit to England. The more time they spend together, the more that unbidden feelings are awakened in the both of them. But can their friendship become anything more when Sarah is obsessed with another man and Benjamin is soon to return to America?

And what is Sarah to do when out of the blue, Mr Templeton begins to finally notice her?