Lizann Jappy is the daughter of a fisherman from the close community of Buckie. Having led a sheltered girlhood, her life is turned upside-down when it is discovered that the man she loves is married - for divorce is an unthinkable disgrace and her family lives by the traditions that have guided the local folk for generations. But Lizann finds that, when the need arises, she can be every bit as proud and resourceful as the people of her home town. Forced to flee by a series of misunderstandings and tragedies, she must leave behind almost everything. Yet as long as she can carry her creel on her back, she hopes she will not starve.

Against the background of the herring fleets, small-time farming and the bombing of Aberdeen in the Second World War, this heartwarming tale brims with adventure, humour and passion as Lizann searches for happiness.