Guilt and ambition drive a mother to leave her children behind in America while she and her husband seek fortune in a Chilean mining town, setting in motion a chain of events that will shape her daughter's life during the tumultuous years of World War II. Lelia Skinner's decision to prioritize her children's education over their immediate presence creates a rift of maternal guilt, expressed through letters filled with angst. Her first-born, Roberta, navigates her own path at Smith College, where she meets Forrest Bedford, a Princeton graduate whose legal studies are cut short by his enlistment. Their story, and the broader narrative of a generation coming of age amidst global conflict, is revealed through unearthed correspondence.

The premise suggests a deeply personal and intimate narrative, focusing on familial relationships and the impact of historical events on individual lives. The use of epistolary elements implies a direct and emotional connection to the characters' experiences and inner thoughts. The setting during World War II and the 'Greatest Generation' theme point towards a story that explores themes of resilience, duty, and personal growth against a backdrop of significant historical change. The author's familial connection to the subjects suggests a potentially authentic and heartfelt portrayal of their lives.