The American Isabel Archer comes to Europe having rejected marriage to a suitor in her home land.

Her determination to enjoy her independence also leads her to spurn the attentions of the English peer, Lord Warburton.

Her path through Europe is shaped, however, first by an unexpected inheritance, and then by the selfish machinations of her cunning new 'friend', Madame Merle.

Struggling to make the best use of her intellect and fortune, Isabel becomes the prey of the unscrupulous Osmond, and is forced to confront a horrible truth: her confidence and courage have been used against her.