At the end of a long and useful life, Penelope Keeling's prize possession is "The Shell Seekers", painted by her father, and symbolizing her unconventional life, from bohemian childhood to wartime romance. When her grown children learn their grandfather's work is now worth a fortune, each has an idea as to what Penelope should do. But as she recalls the passions, tragedies and secrets of her life, she knows there is only one answer--and it lies in her heart.