Katharine Lorimer, the owner of an antiques business, has managed to succeed in a male-dominated industry. However, the market is struggling, and she has risked everything on purchasing a famous Holbein miniature, hoping to sell it to a wealthy American collector.

Katharine's anxiety and natural reserve have distanced her from her niece, Nancy, who, along with her fiancé, accompanies Katharine on the pivotal trip to New York. As Katharine works to secure her future in the competitive world of Fifth Avenue antique dealers, and Nancy pursues her dream of achieving theatrical success, the lives of all three women are changed forever.

With a captivating plot, relatable characters, and deep humanity, this novel showcases all the qualities that have made A.J. Cronin’s works internationally renowned.