A sophisticated and glamorous American widow named Larita falls in love with and swiftly marries a young Englishman named John Whittaker during a racing event in Monaco. With romantic enthusiasm, John brings Larita to his family's country estate in England, where the couple faces immediate tension. John's mother, Veronica, is particularly displeased with the union, viewing Larita as both an outsider and a threat to their traditional way of life. Larita, accustomed to a more liberal and fast-paced lifestyle, finds herself at odds with the conservative and judgmental Whittaker family. As she tries to fit in, cultural and personal clashes deepen the divide, particularly between Larita and Veronica. Larita's unconventional ways and outspokenness begin to reveal underlying secrets and hidden tensions within the family.

Initially, John remains supportive of Larita, but the mounting pressure from his family begins to strain their relationship. His father, Jim, who is weary of societal expectations and his own failed marriage, becomes an unexpected ally for Larita, appreciating her free spirit. Tensions escalate with a series of misunderstandings, secrets, and latent resentments. The cultural chasm and differing values between Larita and the Whittaker family come to a head, forcing each character to confront their true desires and the sacrifices they are willing to make for their version of happiness.