Set in Ireland before World War II, this is the tragic story of the Quinton family who are murdered in retaliation for a death they may or may not have had anything to do with. The only surviving family members - Mrs. Quinton who takes to the drink and slowly loses her mind, young Willie, and a maid. The story is primarily about Willie and how he deals with the deaths of his father, sisters, and various hired help. It's a love story that spans three generations, set against the back drop of the Anglo-Irish feuds. It's a short book, but the characters are well drawn out, and the writing is gorgeous. I will definitely pick up more books by William Trevor.