An enthralling saga set during the Second World War - Bristol, 1939. Feisty, hard-working Mary Anne Randall runs a pawnbroking business from the washhouse at the back of her terraced home to support her three children and drunken, abusive husband. When Michael Maurice inherits a neighbouring Bristol pawnshop, Mary Anne's hackles are raised. But as the war clouds gather over Europe, old passions are stirred and business rivalry is put aside. Mary Ann realises she must seize what may be a last chance at true love . . .