Displaced by the chaos of the English Civil War, a group of dispossessed men attempts to reclaim their livelihood by occupying common land. Facing the loss of their ancestral holdings, these men organize to cultivate land for survival, directly challenging the authority of those who seized their property. The narrative follows a young man who returns home after six years of conflict, finding himself caught between his estranged family and the escalating tensions of the land dispute. The story operates within the rigid social and political hierarchies of 17th-century England, emphasizing the physical struggle for subsistence and the logical consequences of civil unrest.

Readers often note the book's commitment to historical accuracy regarding the social conditions of the English Civil War period. Discussion frequently centers on the protagonist's internal conflict as he attempts to reconcile with his family while navigating a volatile political landscape. Critics highlight the author's focus on the practical challenges of land cultivation and the economic pressures faced by the displaced. The pacing is described as deliberate, allowing for a detailed examination of the era's specific social tensions. Many readers appreciate the grounded approach to the narrative, which avoids overly dramatic tropes in favor of a realistic portrayal of historical struggle.