Not merely a novel about eccentric villagers in the English countryside, this story updates the formula by incorporating modern concerns about the preservation of farms and natural areas as old estates rapidly pass into the hands of rich city folk. Susan' s father had dreamed of turning his estate into a conservation center, but obstacles intervened, and he died without making proper provisions in his will. The Fyfield estate is sold, leaving Susan with a small cottage on the grounds. As it happens, the new owners Thelma and Aubrey are unhappy people, and Thelma' s life in particular lacks direction. Seeing a chance to reinvigorate her father' s plans, Susan enlists Thelma to turn the grounds of the estate into a public conservation area-- a project that quickly turns neighbors into friends.