Set in a bleak future world, this novel tells the story of a young woman, Anna, who lives a harsh life in the isolation of an institution for children who were born against the rules, Grange Hall, a place that is governed by strict rules and where she learns unquestioning obedience - That is, until Peter arrives, and Anna learns from him, shocking things about the world outside - This makes her question the world in which she lives and endeavour to make a better future.