The novel delves into the lives of the inhabitants of the moss-hags, a desolate and isolated area in rural Scotland. The people who live there are known as "the men of the moss-hags." They lead a hard and precarious existence, living off the land and battling the elements. The story focuses on their struggles, triumphs, and relationships within the community.At the center of the narrative is a young man named Tammas, who becomes embroiled in the conflicts and dramas of the moss-hags. As he navigates the challenges of life in this harsh environment, he forms bonds with his fellow villagers and confronts the social and economic issues that impact their lives.