A young nurse, haunted by the traumas of her present, uncovers the hidden wartime experiences of another nurse through a collection of secret letters, finding the strength to heal and live again. Gemma, a nurse struggling with the emotional toll of her work, seeks refuge by renovating a farmhouse in France. Her discovery of Alice Le Breton's letters, written during World War I from a casualty clearing station near the front lines, reveals a story of heartache and resilience. The narrative alternates between Gemma's present-day healing and Alice's wartime struggles, showing how both women find courage and the will to carry on.

This novel has been met with considerable reader enthusiasm, with many highlighting its emotional depth and the powerful portrayal of resilience amidst hardship. Reviewers frequently praise its dual narrative structure, which effectively contrasts contemporary struggles with the harrowing realities of World War I. The story's blend of heartbreak and hope, particularly through the lens of wartime love and loss, resonates strongly with readers. It is recognized as a significant work that captures the enduring spirit of those affected by conflict.