The Fishcastle stands proud and high over the seaside village of Proudie Bay, where the sea meets the land. It is home to the Hardwicks - Marlin, teller of tales and charmer of snakes and women; his daughter, Jennifer, who keeps house; and his son, Gulliver, perfect in form but flawed in spirit. Creaking with secrets and a menagerie of creatures, the Fishcastle gathers many others into its rambling rooms and garden. One eventful summer under the Fishcastle's roof their lives are changed forever.