The case of Jarndyce and Jarndyce has been grinding its’ way through the courts for generations.
At its heart are Ada Clare and Richard Carstone, who find loved - and terrible loss - through their involvement in the endless legal battle. Meanwhile, their friend Esther Summerson, who believes she is an orphan, gradually discovers the truth of her identity. The court case throws out a web ensnaring all who come near it - from haughty Lady Dedlock, hiding the truth about her past, and the menacing lawyer Tulkinghorn to determined detective Bucket, on the trail of a murderer, and tragic little waif Jo, holding the key to a mystery.
Secrets emerge, horrific crimes are committed and love affairs bloom, but will anyone ever benefit from the case of Jarndyce and Jarndyce? Or will the quest for an inheritance come at a terrible cost?
