Flora Brown

The year is 1880 and cousins John James Mackenzie and Sam Morling set out to make a new life for themselves in Scotland.

Having never ventured beyond the shores of New Zealand, they seek adventure and excitement on their journey before settling at the Scottish estate owned by the Mackenzies, where, with John James’ farming experience and Sam’s desire for landscaping, they hope to restore the house and grounds to their former glory.

The estate manager’s daughter, Flora Brown, is not only pretty, but clever and determined. She has her own ideas and dreams of a life in New Zealand with the laird’s son. She fears she will be overlooked because of her lowly social standing, but intends to try everything she can to make him notice her.

Isabella, daughter of the neighbouring estate, shares Sam Morling’s passion for plants. As love begins to blossom between them, Isabella finds her way blocked by her cruel and over-bearing brother who considers gentle Sam to be an entirely unsuitable match.

Meanwhile, at Applecross sheep station, James and Sophia Mackenzie are growing older, much in need of their son’s help. Sophia has always believed that her son would stay in Scotland forever, though James disagrees and expects him to do his duty on the farm. A sudden change of circumstances requires John James’ immediate return, bringing with him echoes of his father’s past.