The unforgettable characters of the Wisteria House and Sorrow & Song Trilogies come together in this poignant Christmas story of the next generation.

A veteran of both the Second World War and the Korean War, combat medic A.J. Harrison returns home in the fall of 1952, permanently injured and uncertain of his future. As the long-anticipated holiday at home approaches, his family's joy is quenched when A.J.'s service record is called into question. How can he defend himself when feelings of failure already assault him from every side?

Hope Carver appears to have a fairytale life, surrounded by a large, loving family. But she lives in frustration over her secret affliction and in fear of others discovering it. What would the young man she's been in love with for years think if he knew the truth about the girl he regards as his kid sister?

When Hope holds the key to proving A.J.'s character, will she be able to face her fears to defend him? And will that truth set him free to love?