The Thrush Green cottage known as Tullivers has remained curiously unoccupied for many years. When Phil, an attractive young woman, and her young son move in after being deserted by husband and father, the village takes them under its collective wing. Harold Shoosmith arrives unannounced at their door with advice and help when Phil starts working in her wild garden. This help includes hooking her up with his best friend, a successful London publisher who prints her stories. When Phil's estranged husband dies in a car accident in France, her new freedom brings more changes to her life as well as a new love to the village.