In 1673, John Ridd, the son of a farmer, is at school in
Devon. On his twelth birthday, he has to go back home.
His father has been killed by Carver Doone, one of an
outlaw band who live in a nearby valley and terrorise the
area. On the way back, John meets Benita, the servant of
a Lady who is travelling with her daughter to Watchet,
and later has to hide from the Doones, who are carrying
booty and a girl. John decides to avenge his father’s death.
Two years later he visits the Doone valley by chance
where he meets Lorna Doone, and likes her very much
in spite of her surname. A year later, Tom Faggus, John’s
mother’s cousin, comes to the farm. Though he has been a
highwayman since he lost his lands, he helps the poor and
sick. Six years go by, and John becomes a strong young
man.