Janet Coombe longs for adventure and the freedom of the sea. She feels herself pulled fast under its spell, but in her heart she knows she must sacrifice her dreams; she is a woman, and her place is in the home. So she marries Thomas, a boat-builder, and her restless spirit is passed down through her son, and on to her descendants.

In her acclaimed debut, Daphne du Maurier weaves a compelling tale of heartbreak, courage and love. "The Loving Spirit", an inimitable blend of romance, history and adventure, established her reputation as one of the finest writers of her generation.