Emily Dalton leads a secure and privileged life with her husband William and their two strong-minded daughters, Connie and Jenny. But their happy world is shattered when, in 1912, William makes a trip to America that ends in tragedy. Emily and her daughters cope as best they can, but crippling debts quickly overwhelm them and they are forced to abandon their large family home. This is only the beginning, however, for soon fighting breaks out with Germany and, as the whole country is gripped by the chaos and heartbreak of war, they find their lives change beyond recognition. Connie, recently married to a much older man, goes to work on the trams when her husband is sent away. Jenny decides to become a nurse and soon finds herself facing the horrors of the front line. Like everyone else, they can only do their bit and hold on to the hope that one day they will be reunited with those they love...