The loose continuation of the successful series follows the fate of midwife Patience Hester, who, together with her family and friends, faces hardships during the Second World War. The impact of the great economic crisis has not yet passed and a new problem is on the horizon. Europe is at war and it is only a matter of time before the United States joins the conflict. While some bravely jump into the fray, Daniel Hester is not one of them. Patience's husband may be a patriot, but he saw too much bloodshed during World War I and vowed never to pick up a gun again. With his attitude, he brings himself and his family into disfavor. Patience must support her family and, more than ever, must maintain her practice in these tumultuous times, relying on generous friends and courageous neighbors, but also on her own indomitable strength.