Newcomers to Lochdubh Vicky and Paul Jeffreys cause a stir: Vicky tries to put reluctant villagers back in touch with their Highland heritage, gradually alienating them. Hamish investigates when this unpopular, meddling newcomer, receives anonymous threats.

Whale-spotting trips and the disappearance of a local seafarer involve Hamish in a murky underwater investigation.

When fire destroys part of Lochdubh Primary School, Esme is horrified to learn not only that the council intends closing the school for good, but that her lover Rory Campbell has been party to their plans all along. Strong passions are aroused by Esme's ensueing media campaign and with Isobel returning as a TV reporter, Hamish battles to keep the peace. He forms a surveillance unit to track down a suspected arsonist; but there is another mystery in Lochdubh - what is the trouble with Rory?.

Lochdubh prepares for tile annual shinty match against Dunbracken with a ruthless Lachlan coaching the village team. Last year was Dunbracken's nineteenth win in a row; a twentieth will award them the trophy forever and there's high tension in the air. The Lochdubh players are amazed when star goalie Lachie Junior walks out on the team, then Lachlan turns into a love-sick Romeo besotted with a voluptuous, leather-clad female biker. Hamish however suspects that all is not what it seems, and the villagers hatch a plot to overcome foul play at the match.