In a moment of maternal despair Essie once made a terrible mistake, one she will always regret. Essie has since recovered, but she fears what may still lurk inside her.

Her neighbours in Pleasant Court have their own issues. Driven and organised, Ange has everything under control, except perhaps her husband. Practical, intellectual Fran can’t stop running. For exercise, or something else?

Then one day, Isabelle arrives and appears to be very curious about her neighbours. Too curious, some might say.

It soon becomes clear that Isabelle’s choice of neighbourhood was no accident …