This is the story of courage, friendship and devotion to duty, set during the Second World War. Beginning in the North African desert, Phillip Purcell, a young inexperienced army captain, and his small band of men bond together amid the fears and horrors of their situation. The relationship that develops between the well-bred officer and his rough-and-ready sergeant, the only regular soldier in the group, makes this fast-moving adventure a most enjoyable read.