The novel is a tale of love and heroism set on the Channel Island of Guernsey, where a reclusive fisherman falls in love with the beautiful niece of a local shipowner. When her uncle's ship is wrecked on a treacherous reef, the fisherman heroically volunteers to salvage the engine that could save the shipowner from ruin, hoping to win the niece's heart. The story unfolds as a gripping adventure of man against the sea, as the protagonist battles the elements, isolation, and his inner demons on his quest, exploring themes of nature's indifference to human struggle, the dignity of labor, and the human spirit's capacity for courage and sacrifice.

The novel is a captivating life story of an old man from the Channel Island of Guernsey, who narrates his experiences, relationships, and the changes he witnesses on the island throughout the 20th century. Through his eyes, readers are immersed in a rich tapestry of island life, filled with personal triumphs and tragedies, as well as the larger historical events that shape the community. The protagonist's voice is deeply personal and engaging, offering a unique perspective on love, friendship, and the enduring power of place and memory.