Set in the hothouse atmosphere of the enclosed convent of the Order Of Sainte Famille, The lives of the order's inhabitants are marked by the daily rituals of spiritual life, but also by the enmities and ambitions of a varied and fiercely intelligent group of women. Trouble ensues when various factions fight tooth and nail for control over the heart and mind of Anna Murphy, a particularly bright student. Through this struggle they demonstrate exactly the predicament of their own self-imposed exile, and the collision of opposing forces that reflect the Ireland of the inter-war years.

Kate O'Brien (December 3, 1897 - August 13, 1974), Irish novelist and playwright. After the success of her play, Distinguished Villa in 1926, she took to full-time writing and was awarded the 1931 James Tait Black Prize for her novel Without My Cloak. She is best known for her 1934 novel The Ante-Room, her 1941 novel The Land of Spices and the 1946 novel That Lady. Many of her books dealt with issues of female sexuality with several exploring gay/lesbian themes and both Mary Lavelle and The Land of Spices were banned in Ireland.

Barbara Flynn is a vastly experienced narrator of Documentaries and short stories. Leading TV and Film work includes: "Dalziel and Pascoe", Miss Potter, Cracker, The Line of Beauty , The Marchioness Disaster , Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots, Malice Aforethought, Sea of Souls, Omen: Part 2 (2005) He Knew He Was Right, The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, Hornblower: Duty , The Forsyte Saga, Night Flight , Perfect , Lorna Doone and The Law.