In Binchy's narrative tapestry, the threads of friendship, love, family, and small-town life are woven alongside the more incendiary strands of premarital sex and abortion within a Catholic community. At the heart of this tale lies an unbreakable alliance between Benny and Eve, a steadfast friendship marked by unwavering loyalty and shared devotion. Together, they form an indomitable duo, ready to face any challenge side by side.

However, the bond they share with Nan paints a different picture. With a heart inclined toward self-interest, Nan prioritizes her own desires above all else. Her betrayal of Benny is stark and merciless, as she cunningly ensnares Jack, luring him away and leaving a trail of heartache in her wake.

Throughout the novel, Benny embarks on a quest for love. Despite her parents' insistence on a union with Sean Walsh, she stands firm in her resolve, rejecting the proposal for want of true affection. Her heart finds a connection with Jack, yet this budding romance is shattered by his unfaithful dalliance with Nan.

Meanwhile, Jack's parents navigate their own love story. Although deeply in love, his mother feels compelled to maintain an image of flawlessness to sustain her husband's desire.

In a parallel pursuit, Eve seeks her own romantic destiny, eventually discovering it in the exuberant and warm-hearted Aidan, whose humor and kindness envelop her heart.

Jack finds the quaint and cozy village of Knockglen fascinating, a charm that never fails to captivate him. Often, he playfully reminds Benny to "never knock Knockglen." Benny, Eve, and their circle of friends from Dublin are equally mesmerized by the village's allure. As anticipation builds for their second gathering, the prospect of escaping to the peaceful haven over the weekend fills them with excitement. Now, deep into the story, Benny no longer criticizes Knockglen; instead, she has grown to cherish and take pride in its modest charm.

Benny's parents harbor doubts about the essential nature of a college education for their daughter. Although they beam with pride over their daughter attending the university, their hearts truly yearn for her to find a charming suitor who can ensure a life of ease and comfort. Their hopeful eyes have settled on Sean Walsh as a potential match for Benny.

However, Benny's feelings towards Sean are far from warm. Almost from the moment he steps foot into her father's business, she senses his furtive glances and conniving demeanor, which evoke a deep aversion within her. Unlike her parents, Benny is determined to pursue her academic dreams, envisioning a life beyond the confines of marriage and family obligations.