Set in the summer of 1900, the novel follows a young boy who visits a friend's family estate and becomes an unwitting messenger in an illicit affair between his friend's older sister and a local farmer. As the boy navigates the complexities of the adult world and the rigid class system of the time, he experiences a loss of innocence that has lasting effects on his life. The narrative explores themes of nostalgia, memory, and the corrupting power of class and wealth.

This novel is a semi-autobiographical narrative that blends fact with fiction, exploring the life and adventures of a young man who travels through early 19th-century Britain. The protagonist, a scholar, linguist, and former lawyer's apprentice, delves into the world of the Romany Gypsies, learning their language and customs while reflecting on nature, society, and the human condition. His encounters with a diverse cast of characters, including horse traders, boxers, and thieves, provide a vivid portrayal of the period's cultural landscape. The narrative is as much an exploration of the author's personal philosophy and love for languages as it is a depiction of the life of an itinerant wanderer.

The novel centers on a group of American military wives stationed with their husbands at an Air Force base in England during the 1950s. It follows their lives, friendships, and the challenges they face as they navigate cultural differences, personal dreams, and the shifting social landscape of the 20th century. Despite the varied paths their lives take over the years, the women share a bond that endures through love affairs, family strife, and societal changes, capturing the essence of an era and the enduring power of friendship.