The narrative centers on the legal and moral crisis triggered by the trial of Effie Deans for child murder in 18th-century Scotland. Jeanie Deans, the protagonist, seeks to save her sister from execution by navigating a judicial system she perceives as flawed. Her objective is to secure justice through personal integrity and faith, often clashing with the rigid political and legal structures of the time. The narrative framework utilizes a historical chronicle style, spanning decades to contrast individual morality against institutional failure.

Readers and critics frequently identify this work as a complex narrative that balances historical accuracy with deep character study. Discussion often centers on the tension between the legal system's inability to produce true justice and the protagonist's personal moral code. Many highlight the effectiveness of the atmosphere in capturing the political and religious climate of the era. The pacing is noted for its deliberate, expansive nature, which allows for a thorough examination of the themes of duty and redemption. Scholars often point to Jeanie Deans as a significant figure in the development of the literary heroine.