In affluent post Edwardian Melbourne, the lives of two sisters are irrevocably altered as the secrets and misdemeanours of their parents' generation have a devastating impact on theirs.

As the belle-epoch and the age of deference are shattered by a conflict begun in Europe, Agnes and Sarah will be challenged as volunteer nurses in a theatre of war that is like no conflict ever previously experienced. Meanwhile, others back home will be forced to confront the sins of their past...