London, 1865 Vera Sorokina loves reading the Penny Dreadfuls, especially the romantic ones, that are so popular on the London streets. As the daughter of a Russian immigrant, Vera is cautioned from mingling with anyone besides the customers who visit their tiny stationery shop. With such a strict father, Vera wonders if she'll ever have a chance to be courted, let alone fall in love. Still, the shop offers her the freedom and income to employ...