When her father dies unexpectedly, young Maud Ruthyn becomes heiress to a large fortune that will fall to her when she comes of age. Romantically obsessed with a youthful portrait of her Uncle Silas, she gladly agrees to be placed under his tutelage, despite warnings about his behavior. Unfortunately for Maud, things don't turn out as they seem, and Silas's benevolent demeanor hides a web of deception and horror.