Trevena's tale takes place in the moor-side parish of Scarthorn and its village of Lendon. The local pub, known simply as The Frog, is a meeting place named for a huge stuffed frog that is grotesquely displayed there; the preserved carcass is closely connected with the history of one of the characters and holds a secret as well. After 40 years, Henry Lewenden returns to this location, his childhood home, as a stranger even though he is a member of an esteemed family. Because Henry is effectively an outsider, many of the village folk are suspicious of his intentions. He announces that he will conduct an experiment in simple living and takes up residence at a modest cottage to prove it. Henry meets and interacts with numerous people in the village, including Richard Blisland and his two unmarried daughters, Carrie and Julia. Henry asks Carrie Blisland to assist him in writing a book and they develop an amiable relationship. Will their friendship blossom into romance or will he be forced out of town alone?