Annie Harrison's childhood is full of contrasts. From the crowded family existence of her uncle and aunt's house to misery with her reclusive mother, she eventually goes to live in the Grand Hotel with a rich school friend. Marriage to the dependable Laurie follows and, when her husband dies, she throws herself into providing for her 2 children. Starting at the bottom with a market stall she discovers a talent for designing clothes that develops into a successful business. But there comes a time amidst the success when things happen to make Annie feel she can no longer go on. Then a chance meeting leads to events she has no control over, and at last she finds the happiness that has previously eluded her.