This novel explores the clash of cultures between conservative English society and passionate Italy through the experiences of a young English widow, Lilia Herriton, who impulsively marries a younger Italian man, Gino Carella, while vacationing in Tuscany. The Herriton family, particularly Lilia's brother-in-law Philip, travels to Italy in an attempt to prevent the marriage and later to regain custody of Lilia's child after her death. The narrative critically examines the restrictive morals and prejudices of Edwardian England while highlighting the destructive effects of blind adherence to societal conventions.

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