Set in England in 1953, in an era where corporal punishment was a common occurrence, this substantial (195,000 words) and faithful portrait of the customs and traditions of a girls' boarding-school brings you an extensive cast of pupils and staff whose stories, characters and motives (as well as their punishments) are explored in detail.

With the school's reputation in serious decline, the governors of Cropton Hall urgently need a new Headmistress. They appoint former pupil and strict disciplinarian, Miss Verily Markham. Fearsome but fair, the new Head brings justice and order and soon wins the support of staff and the respect of pupils.

Among the many recipients of Miss Markham's new regime of corporal punishment (which include, on occasion, some of the younger members of staff) sixth-formers Rachel Thomas and Susan French stand out for their recklessness and bravery. When they form a secret society, all hell breaks loose and public canings ensue.