Raine must navigate a volatile romantic conflict between a manipulative former flame and a sincere new suitor while staying at her grandmother's villa in the South of France. Seeking recovery from a reckless infatuation with the philandering Clifford Culver, Raine finds herself caught in a complex web of deceit when Cliff follows her to the Mediterranean. She struggles to reconcile her lingering attachment to the deceptive Londoner with the growing, genuine affection offered by Armand, a French artist who recognizes Cliff's true motives. The narrative follows Raine's internal conflict as she balances her emotional vulnerability against the external pressures of social expectations and potential betrayal.

Readers often identify this work as a classic example of mid-century romantic fiction that prioritizes emotional stakes over rapid plot progression. Discussion frequently centers on the stark contrast between the two male leads and how their opposing temperaments force the protagonist toward a difficult choice. Critics note that the setting serves as a vital backdrop for the character-driven drama, enhancing the sense of isolation and longing experienced by the lead. The narrative is recognized for its focus on the internal struggle of a young woman attempting to discern genuine affection from calculated deception. Many readers highlight the atmospheric descriptions of the South of France as a key element that maintains the story's tone throughout the development of the central conflict.