Gabrielle is the daughter of Elizabeth-Rose Smith, Guardian of the Blood-Rose. As she embarks on her first adventure away from home, Gabrielle hopes to discover who she is in the university environment. She travels to Armidale to study at the University of New England with her twin brother Peter. Gabrielle meets a charming boy and falls for him in the first few days of college, but her relationship with him is not all that it seems.

Gabrielle will discover that she is part of something far bigger and more dangerous than anything ever encountered by her family. With the help of a magical ally, Gabrielle gains a better understanding of her purpose and herself. Her journey is filled with love and adventure, but is also tainted with confusion and deceit. In her first year at university, Gabrielle discovers that she too will wear the mantle of Guardian of the Blood-Rose, and takes on board the duties it entails with a fierceness reminiscent of her Guardian mother.