Jean is having a tough time trying to fit in at her new school and the bullies don't help. Finding an old book in the school library is a turning point in her life. The book fills her with dread, and its ever-changing messages manage to be both threatening and empowering. No matter how hard Jean tries to rid herself of the book, it stays with her.

Jean struggles with dark thoughts and nightmares until she meets Romy. Romy is popular and sporty, the complete opposite of Jean, but they hit it off and develop a strong and joyful friendship. The book's hold over Jean starts to wane.

Setting off for university is an exciting time for Jean and Romy, but it also means leaving their families. Jean's mum decides she must tell her about her father, who she has never known. A sad secret comes tumbling out and although Jean pushes this to the back of her mind, the nightmares begin again.

At her lowest point, a sudden catastrophe befalls Jean. Will she have the courage to make it through the darkness once again and find the colour and light in her life?