For three generations of Pilkingtons - and their set of equally rich neighbours - Tremity Cove on the devon coast has been the perfect summer home. The middle generation, particularly the settled and successful trio of Pilkington brothers,their wives and mother, Harriet, have made a hallowed tradition of the summer holiday. Then onto the scene - and into a shocking discovery - stumbles Desmondimmature, mother's boy, solitary birdwatcher, catalyst. Desmond's discovery involves the police. and an enforced stay at Tremity Cove uncovers long-past events, sins, misunderstandings and false assumptions which bring about the final, shocking tragedy...