A young Japanese housewife in occupied Shanghai must confront the moral complexities of war and her nation's actions. Eiko Kishimoto, a twenty-year-old London-educated Japanese woman, arrives in Shanghai in 1942 to a life of privilege within the French Concession, enjoying the cosmopolitan society and high-society events. However, as Japan's wartime grip on China tightens, the superficiality of her existence crumbles, revealing mounting tensions and questioning allegiances. Eiko is forced to confront the harsh realities of occupation, not only for her international friends but also for Japanese civilians, as her own domestic life and family ties are threatened by the escalating desperation of Japan's war efforts. Her Christian values and loyalty to her country are put to the ultimate test as she navigates this increasingly degenerate conflict.

The premise suggests a narrative that offers a unique perspective on the Asia Pacific War through the eyes of a young Japanese woman. The author's personal connection to the events through her mother's experiences indicates a potentially intimate and nuanced portrayal of life during wartime occupation. The exploration of Eiko's internal conflict between her faith and national duty points to a character-driven story focused on moral and ethical dilemmas. The setting of Shanghai, a cosmopolitan hub during the war, promises a rich backdrop for exploring cultural clashes and the complexities of human relationships under duress.