It's the eve of the Darcys' annual Lady Anne ball at their magnificent Pemberley home and Darcy and Elizabeth are relaxing with their guests after supper when the festivities are brought to an abrupt halt by an unexpected visitor and news of a murder in Pemberley woods.

In the aftermath of the dramatic events in the woods and Wickham's arrest, Elizabeth reassures the staff at Pemberley that all will be well, but it's becoming clear that Darcy feels everything is very far from well and he starts to retreat from his wife as he seeks to protect the household against the scandal.

Wickham is found guilty of murder, and as his trial progresses revelations of his indiscretions and secrets come thick and fast. Darcy’s preoccupation with saving the reputation of Pemberley, and his part in coercing Georgiana to marry for duty drives a wedge between him and Elizabeth. As the trial draws to a close Wickham’s fate looks sealed until a last-minute turn of events - but will it be enough to save him from death by hanging?