When the onset of World War II prompts a young woman to enlist as a student nurse, she finds her independent spirit immediately at odds with the rigid hierarchy of a rural hospital. Monica Dickens navigates the grueling physical demands of hospital life, where she must balance the exhausting reality of menial labor with the strict, often arbitrary authority of the nursing staff. Her objective is to contribute to the war effort while maintaining her own identity, a goal complicated by the hospital's unforgiving environment and the constant pressure to conform. The narrative, presented with a sharp, observational wit, captures the friction between her personal ambitions and the institutional expectations of wartime Britain.

Readers frequently highlight the book's balance of humor and genuine insight into the challenges of the nursing profession. Discussion often centers on the protagonist's growth as she transitions from a spirited outsider to a capable member of the hospital staff. Critics appreciate the vivid characterizations of the Matron and various patients, which provide a nuanced look at the social structures of the era. The pacing is noted for its steady progression, effectively capturing both the monotony of hospital chores and the excitement of off-duty social life. Many readers find the narrative style to be engaging and authentic, reflecting the author's own experiences with clarity and wit.