The arrival of Danny Delacy in the Australian highlands sets in motion a multi-generational saga defined by the harsh demands of the frontier and the encroaching shadow of global conflict. Danny, a man of immense vitality and ambition, establishes a dynasty that grapples with the physical challenges of taming the land and the shifting social landscape of New South Wales. The narrative follows the Delacy family through the 19th century, documenting their resilience against environmental adversity and internal family dynamics. As the family moves toward the 20th century, the looming tragedy of World War I threatens to dismantle the world they have painstakingly constructed.

This work is widely regarded as a significant contribution to Australian literature, celebrated for its authentic portrayal of the pioneer experience. Readers often note the strength of the characterization, particularly the central figure of Danny Delacy, whose personality drives the momentum of the narrative. The prose is frequently praised for its rhythmic quality and its ability to capture the specific atmosphere of the New South Wales highlands. Critics and readers alike acknowledge the book as a poignant reflection on the cost of progress and the inevitable changes brought by the onset of the First World War.