Set against the background of the Second World War, a proud old Southern family encounters the changing world of the mid-twentieth century. Sadie, happy wife of Warren and mother of four, finds herself caught in a game of pretentions with Minerva, a compulsive social climber. A surprising plot begins when Sadie accidentally meets Hadrian, her first love, now Minerva?s husband. Many changes come as the war progresses and Warren returns to Navy duty. Sadie and Hadrian are forced into closer contact, and complications result. She struggles with unexpected personal and family issues that demand new ways of thinking and hard choices. The war brings heartbreak and tragedy, but Sadie finds strength and stays brave. In time, she takes a job, meets other people, and discovers a broader world. The difficult relationship with Hadrian continues and reaches an unexpected climax. Sadie stays open to new possibilities, accepts change, and the story ends happily.