Impoverished but proud Vanessa Danforth is forced from her mother's home by her new stepfather's treachery in 1860s England. After graduating from stenographer's school, she accepts a position at the estate of famed world explorer, Harrison Courtland. Made a widower by his wife's tragic death in the Himalayas, Courtland has retreated into his work, while Vanni forges friendships with his daughter Katrin, the governess and the handsome physician from the neighboring estate. As Vanni encourages Courtland to unearth the ancient ruins at the edge of his property she discovers not only a stunning secret and a hidden treasure, but also her own heart's desire.