Flora is forced to move back to the tiny island of Mure from the bright lights of London. It's tough: even the beautiful landscapes and bright blue sea can't lift her spirits - she's too busy looking after her dad and her feckless brothers. Then she chances upon her mum's collection of recipes and begins to cook her way through it. As she she reconnects with her family, and the place she was born, might she also find herself?

England is at war and Easterleigh Hall has been turned into a hospital for the duration of the hostilities. With its army of volunteers and wounded servicemen, cook Evie Forbes is determined that everyone will be properly provided for, despite the threat of rationing and dwindling supplies. All the while she waits for letters from her fiance and beloved brother, fighting on the Western Front. Then the worst happens - a telegram arrives with shattering...