John Hollingworth

The widowed Reverend Ainsworth arrives in Halifax with his sights set on Ann Walker's hand in marriage, as well as a position at a local church. Eliza Priestley - who remains bitterly angry with Anne Lister since she caught her kissing Ann Walker - encourages unctuous Ainsworth's predatory plans. Aware that Ainsworth's attentions are stirring up painful memories for her lover, Anne Lister sets out to deal with the clergyman in her own inimitable manner. She soon realizes however that there are greater demons inside Ann Walker's troubled mind, as the scrutiny of another member of Ann's tribe of friends and relations poses a further threat to their relationship. Anne presses on with the transformation of her estate, but there are signs that her ambitious plans could also be about to lead her into trouble. Meanwhile Marian remains impressed with Mr. Abbott, and a discovery in the pig-sty gives Mary Sowden reason to suspect that Thomas is lying about exactly how his father disappeared.

Sally Wainwright adapts the extraordinary life of Yorkshire landowner Anne Lister based on her meticulous and coded diaries. Halifax, Yorkshire, 1832. Anne returns from her travels in Europe to the family manor. She is cultured, highly educated, financially independent, practical and an expert in medical, legal and industrial matters. But, her attempts to restore the family's fortunes and find a woman with whom she can have a long term relationship, will be thwarted by both family and society.