April 1914: War clouds gather over Europe and two families collide after a tragic death. Torn between duty and his own desires, William enlists as a seaplane pilot. His Welsh fiancee, Lottie, dutifully stays at home after her sister runs away with a soldier.


In London, William's mother, Alice, immerses herself in war work but, when confronted with an illegitimate baby, Alice's personal war is just beginning. Serving one's country and pressures to enlist are a dark contrast to romantic love. White feather incidents in London and Llandudno highlight different perceptions of courage and cowardice. Can William survive the shame of being accused of cowardice?