After a rocky start as Watervalley's only doctor, Luke Bradford has decided to stay in town, honoring the three year commitment he made to pay off his medical school depts. But even as his friendships with the quirky townsfolk deepen and he pursues a romance with lovely schoolteacher Christine Chambers, several veterans' emotional wounds trigger anger and unrest in Watervalley.

At the center of the clash is the curmudgeonly publisher of the local newspaper, Luther Whitmore. Luther grew up in Watervalley, but he returned from combat in Vietnam a changed man.

As Luke struggles to understand Luther's past and restore harmony in Watervalley, an unforseen crises shatters a relationship he values dearly. Ultimately, Luke must confront life's toughtst choices regarding service, courage, love, and sacrifice.