Reading a Catherine Cookson is always an enjoyable experience. This book is no different. Being set in a later time period than most adds a different dimension.

Matthew Wallingham returns from WWII a changed man, blinded and mentally scared. His family is seriously at odds with each other and his return doesn't help especially in his relationship with younger brother Roland. The only person who can get through to him is one of the nurses who has her own family problems.

Each family member is well written and totally believabe whether for good or ill. ( )