Everyone thinks Morag MacLeod is a witch because of the strange things that have happened since she went to the shores of Loch Ness to see the monster rise. Only Torquil knows better, for he has seen the Kelpie, the supernatural water-horse whose magical powers can summon any beast, even Nessie. Tourists, reporters and professors all gather at Morag's croft, and Torquil fears that his secret collection of animals will be discovered. The fierce woman who looks after him will skin him alive if she finds out about the Kelpie, his animals or his friendship with Morag! And it all started with the Kelpie and his pearls. But just when Morag can't bear the crowds anymore, the Kelpie himself has a plan...