Charlotte Arc's father who was a professor at the university is found dead just before the new term is due to begin. Charlotte decides to enrol at the university so that she can discover the truth about her father's death. Charlotte and the other new students soon learn about a world of drugs, sex and secret societies one of which is called the Dandelion Club.

It is Founders Day, and Trinity alumni come back to visit the college. Much to Maltravers' disgust, among them is Hunter, the richest man in the world. And Maddy receives an unwelcome visit from her boyfriend.