Returning from the harrowing battlefields of the First World War’s Western Front, two British soldiers – one Irish and the other English – discover that the bonds forged in the crucible of war can withstand even the tumultuous conflict between their two nations. As they find themselves drawn into opposing sides during the Irish War of Independence, both become entangled in intelligence operations for their respective causes. Amidst this newfound turmoil, each seeks solace in reclaiming their lives after years in the pitiless trenches of Flanders. Their paths diverge, yet both separately enjoy the normalcy of affectionate relationships and the simple charms of living in a small town in Cork, nestled among Ireland’s picturesque rivers, valleys, and rolling hills.

Within the narrative’s backdrop lies a time of transition, wrought primarily by the cataclysmic impact of the Great War. Duty demands an inhuman response, but amidst this struggle, the characters navigate the intricate tapestry of human connections. Although a work of fiction, this book intertwines with real historical events, offering a compelling exploration of the resilience of the human spirit against the backdrop of a transformative era.