When the distressing shadows of war fall across Europe, Olivia Brodie watches the man she loves, Captain Spencer Middleton, lead his men proudly to the front, his final words a promise to return. Left behind among the working-class neighbours she calls family, Olivia clings to hope as the world around her changes forever. Her spirited younger brother, Lachie, eager to prove himself, enlists underage - his letters home filled with bravado and dreams of glory. Before long, Olivia realises she is carrying Spencer's child and then devastating news arrives from France, leaving her heartbroken. Olivia leans on her neighbours for strength, especially the mother-like figure of Tess. In a time when the future feels as fragile as the lives lost to war, Olivia must find the courage to protect the life growing within her and to believe that love can endure even through the darkest days.