The Loves of Catrin tells the story of Catrin Owen whose life began in the grim world of a Welsh copper town in the nineteenth century. Born and bred in the poverty-striken streets that sprawled round the smelting works, Catrin dreams of escaping from the smoke and grime and hardship that engulf her life. But Catrin's future will be with the man she marries - and she inspires the love of two men - Dylan Morgan from her own background - and John Richards, a well-bred gentleman.