Master Rosalind features a variety of characters who are not always what they seem. The story is told from Rosalind's perspective; because she is young and inexperienced, she often judges people solely by their appearances and sometimes draws incorrect conclusions as a result.

Before Rosalind departs for Oxford, her grandfather insists that, soon after her return, she go to live with Lady Margaret Forster and learn to act like a proper young lady. But Rosalind, a tomboy, instead chooses to stay with the band of thieves in London and thus to live the "boy's life" she has always wanted to live. Though initially frightened, she remains bright, intelligent, and good-hearted. She is separated from her family and surrounded by thieves who keep a constant watch on her, but Rosalind refuses to do what she feels is wrong—in this case, steal. Always spunky...