Young Louis Bradshaw (Bridget Fonda) has spent her entire life in her twin sister's shadow, and never being noticed has made her as bitter as the stormy sea. With flowing blond hair, radiant beauty, and an angelic voice, Louise's sister Caroline manages to take from Louise the love of their parents, her hope for an education, and even her best and only friend.

Louise's only dream is to leave the island where they were born, and when that dream comes true for Caroline, it intensifies her unvoiced anger and bitterness towards her sister. Unable to see any hope on her own, Louise befriends an elderly ship captain, who shares a secret that will prompt her to seek a life outside of her sister's shadow.