Adeline, a young woman fleeing Paris, finds herself trapped within the decaying walls of a remote abbey where she must navigate the predatory intentions of its proprietor. Adeline seeks safety after being placed under the protection of a family escaping debt, only to discover that their sanctuary in south-eastern France hides dark secrets. As she uncovers physical remnants of a violent past, she faces the logical constraints of a world governed by extreme social oppression and the looming threat of the Marquis. The narrative framework utilizes the conventions of the late eighteenth-century Gothic novel to explore the vulnerability of the heroine against external forces. Her objective remains survival and the preservation of her autonomy amidst the encroaching dangers of the abbey.

Readers and critics frequently identify this work as a pivotal text in the development of the Gothic genre. Discussion often centers on Radcliffe's ability to balance suspenseful atmosphere with the intellectual concerns of her time. Many highlight the effectiveness of the ruined abbey as a physical manifestation of the protagonist's internal and external entrapment. Scholars often note that the novel serves as a bridge between early Gothic tropes and the more complex psychological narratives found in later works. The pacing is often described as deliberate, allowing for a thorough examination of the themes of oppression and moral integrity.