As the German offensive threatens Cairo, a group of expatriates and soldiers must navigate the precarious social and political landscape of wartime Egypt. Guy and Harriet Pringle find their lives increasingly complicated by the encroaching conflict and the shifting loyalties of those around them. The narrative follows their attempts to maintain a sense of normalcy while the physical threat of Rommel’s forces looms over the city. Through a third-person perspective, the text examines the logical constraints of survival in a foreign land during a period of intense geopolitical instability. The characters must balance personal desires against the rigid demands of a world at war.

Readers and critics often highlight the author's ability to capture the specific atmosphere of Cairo during a time of immense pressure. Discussion frequently centers on the meticulous attention to detail regarding the social dynamics of the British community in Egypt. Many note that the pacing is deliberate, favoring character development and internal reflection over rapid action sequences. The work is recognized for its clear-eyed view of the complexities inherent in wartime life, providing a grounded perspective on the period. Readers appreciate the balance between the personal struggles of the protagonists and the broader historical context of the Second World War.