Thomas's worst fears came true. As a young man, he faced active duty in the First World War as a medical officer, only to witness his children drawn remorselessly into the Second, two of the most significant conflicts in human history. However, out of the inevitable devastation came something more powerful - unquestioning love, in all its manifestations - from the dedicated care of the injured to the intense passion of unexpected romantic encounters, lasting a lifetime. From his copious diaries, Thomas resolved to record his and his family's experiences in a chronicle so that future generations might fully appreciate their legacy. It became an epic tome, a labour of love, describing their determination, courage, and self-sacrifice - an inspiration to all who opened its pages. Not only was history repeating itself, but extraordinary parallels between two generations in England and France were revealed, uncovering even more remarkable stories.