In 1898 right before the 'Fin de Siècle' Jack Mortimer has just turned twenty-one years of age. Having lead a secluded life up until now, he admits that he is a very innocent and naïve young gentleman. After a strange encounter with the infamous and mysterious Count Raoul Rodolpho on Bodmin Moor, Jack Mortimer's life will be changed forever. The Count who has been nicknamed 'The Red Admiral' by the Bodmin townsfolk because of his passion for lepidoptery, (Butterfly collecting) is revealed to be a charming, and enticing prospect, if somewhat unpredictable, but nonetheless he proves to be a mesmerising presence to the impressionable young Jack. But what is the lasting consequence of this ominous meeting? Count Rodolpho is renowned for his opulent and extravagant tastes, but do the rumours that surround him of debauchery and possible bloodlust do him justice, or are they merely unjust superstitions thrust upon him by the local Bodmin villagers, who have a history of revelling in macabre beliefs themselves and an irrational fear of 'Foreign Outsiders' ? This fateful meeting with the Count Rodolpho ushers in many unforeseen consequences for Jack Mortimer. And what of the allure, the power and the influence of Count Rodolpho's mysterious and enchanting three 'sisters' Scarletta, Esmeray and Lilah? Jack Mortimer's life is about to be transformed forever.