Ross Poldark returns home from the American War of Independence to find Prenwith destroyed and an old feud with George Warleggan reignited.
Elizabeth has had a son - born under a Black Moon. At Nampara, news arrives that Dwight Enys is missing at sea.
Ross goes to France to search for Dwight but is captured. Drake has fallen in love with Morwenna as the feud with Warleggan continues.
Demelza has given birth to a daughter. Unaware of Morwenna's love for Drake, George has arranged a marriage between her and Rev Whitworth.
Dwight's rescue from Fort Baton goes according to plan until they reach the Channel. Meanwhile, Aunt Agatha prepares for her 100th birthday.
George is haunted by Aunt Agatha's dying curse; Ross's heroic exploits reunite Caroline and Dwight and lead to a new conquest for Demelza.
Ross refuses to stand as a parliamentary candidate, so George accepts. With Morwenna pregnant, temptation confronts Rev Whitworth.
Demelza, fighting her attraction for Hugh Armitage, learns of Ross's secret meeting with Elizabeth. Rev Whitworth's calm life is shattered.
Starvation has caused rioting amongst the miners. Ross sympathises but is powerless to help. Meanwhile, Demelza and Hugh draw closer.
It is several months since Ross's abrupt departure for Westminster left Demelza alone to grieve. Will love triumph at their reunion?
George gives a party at Penrice and calls in a loan. Rev Whitworth's domestic arrangements appear to be running a little too smoothly.
George's schemes have come to fruition as Pascoe's Bank faces bankruptcy. In Ross's absence Demelza risks all to help save their old friend.
Demelza's happiness in her first trip to London, already soured by an encounter with Monk Adderly, is about to be shattered.