In 18th century Scotland, Alexander, a doctor and poet, and his snobbish sister Susanna are desperate to advance their social standing, and while Susanna unwittingly gets herself involved in some truly terrifying situations as a result, Alexander concentrates on his ambition to be a famous poet. He is surprised and delighted when he meets Robbie Burns, who is a great companion and a poet like himself. Alexander loves him like a brother, but when the genius of Burns begins to completely overshadow Alexander's poetry, their close friendship changes and there is a darkening of Alexander's heart.