In the faded coastal village of Newby, everyone looks out for - and in on - each other. Although keeping up appearances is second nature, nothing goes unnoticed for long. Beautiful divorcee Tory is secretly involved with her neighbour, Robert, while his wife, consumed by the worlds she creates in her novels, is oblivious to the relationship developing next door. Their daughter Prudence, however, is appalled by the treachery she observes. Meanwhile, Mrs Bracey, whose grasp on life is slipping, forever peers from her window, pestering her daughters for village gossip. Into their lives steps Bertram, a retired naval officer with the unfortunate capacity to inflict lasting damage while trying to do good.