After escaping a prisoner-of-war camp, Peter Lennox finds himself thrust into the dangerous mountains of South Tyrol to lead a resistance movement against occupying forces. Lennox, a former artist whose physical injuries threaten his creative future, must pivot his focus from personal survival to the strategic coordination of local fighters. He faces the harsh realities of mountain warfare and the constant threat of betrayal while operating behind enemy lines. The narrative follows his transition from a captive soldier to an active liaison, detailing the tactical maneuvers required to support the broader Allied offensive.

This novel is recognized for its adherence to the conventions of mid-century espionage and war fiction. The narrative structure relies on the tension between the protagonist's personal history and the immediate demands of his mission in the mountains. Readers often note the author's ability to ground the high-stakes military objectives in the specific, harsh geography of the South Tyrol. The work reflects a focus on the mechanics of resistance and the logistical hurdles faced by soldiers operating in occupied territories. It remains a representative example of the author's established style in crafting suspenseful, historically-informed narratives.