Rachel and Damaris Ellerton are living in Gracedieu Abbey owned by Joan Raymond, Rachel as Abbey guide (Guardian) and Damaris as gardener, after Damaris's former career as a ballet dancer had been cut short by an accident. In their roles in the Abbey they are able to provide support and advice to the schoolgirls living in the Hall next door. A theme running through the book is finding your purpose in life, and how you can make a difference. The story opens with Benedicta who wants to find a job where she can be useful. The three schoolgirls staying at the Hall want to remove themselves from the Hall so as not to be in the way, but are assured that there is a useful role for them in guiding and helping the younger girls.