York, England 1881. Ten years ago, Victoria Ashton, along with her husband Dr Joseph Ashton, built the Ashton Home for Women and Children. Destitute women seeking refuge from poverty, abuse, neglect and abandonment still arrive at the gates, searching for relief. They come bringing their sick and malnourished children. They come to hide from a harsh world, and lick their wounds and with Victoria, and her helpers' support, the women can begin again. Georgiana Carter, penniless and recently widowed, is desperate for a place to stay, a roof over her children's heads, and a warm meal. Her youthful plans to run away with a boatman ended in disaster. Will her wealthy father ever take her back into his heart? Ruthie Benson must escape. In trouble and constantly suffering from the onslaught of her brother's fists, she needs help before her secret becomes known. Where can she run to? These are some of the vulnerable women Victoria cares for and gives sanctuary to as she works in the slums of York. However, sometimes the price can be too high. Is she forgetting her own family's needs? Will Victoria save Georgiana and Ruthie, or has her help come too late as the Christmas bells ring out over the city?