The second autumn of the Great War, Livinia Pratt, a widowed mother of four, struggles to keep her family together and protected from the horrors of a world gone mad. She fears the future, especially alone. A wounded officer, Major James Gunnison, reluctantly seeks Army ordered rest in the gamekeeper's cottage on his niece's estate. His duty is to his men and must return to them as soon as possible.Livinia cannot understand his solitude and invites him for dinner. A confirmed bachelor, he is drawn into the turmoil of her family life. Livy's son, about to turn nineteen, vows to join the Army. An unsuitable admirer courts her oldest daughter. The two youngest children are wily and undisciplined. Major Gunnison quickly becomes someone the Pratts can turn to for help.When the major's wound becomes noticeably worse, Livy persuades him to consult a London doctor. He reluctantly agrees even though treatment will delay his return to the front. An operation goes tragically wrong, leaving the Major's future uncertain. During his most difficult days in the hospital, Livy stays by his side. He pushes her away, hating to be a burden, demanding she leaves him alone. She retreats in tears.Livy has seen a glimpse of the future with the Major in it. She's not about to give up on him. Convincing James that his purpose in life isn't lost but only changed becomes the most important challenge she's ever faced. She believes her reward if she succeeds, will be a partnership that can overcome any obstacles ahead of them.
