The sudden death of a husband forces two women to navigate the complex intersection of grief, spiritual crisis, and the emergence of unexpected desire. Gertrude Openshaw finds herself widowed and vulnerable, while her friend Anne Cavidge struggles with the aftermath of leaving a religious order. As they attempt to reconstruct their lives, they are drawn into a web of relationships involving a Polish exile known as the Count and a struggling artist named Tim Reede. The narrative examines the tension between moral obligation and personal longing within a shifting social circle in London and France.

Readers and critics frequently note the intricate character dynamics that define this work. Discussion often centers on the author's ability to balance philosophical inquiry with the messy realities of human relationships. Many highlight the contrast between the spiritual struggle of the former nun and the more grounded, often chaotic, romantic pursuits of the other characters. The pacing is described as deliberate, allowing for deep exploration of the protagonists' internal states. Overall, the novel is recognized for its examination of how individuals reconcile their past commitments with the demands of the present.