1859: Charles Darwin's theory of evolution angers the God-fearing Victorians. Their great-great-great-grandparents were supposed to have been monkeys? Well, thank you very much! In order to prove the accuracy of his theories without causing further uproar, Darwin decides to turn his attention to completely different creatures: orchids. But even his sharp mind cannot fathom these flowers, which keep their secrets to themselves. 140 years after Darwin's death, biologist and orchid lover Thomas Cassar embarks on a journey across continents to uncover these secrets.