Historical fiction, New Zealand in the 1930s and 40s. River at War is the story of Miriam, the daughter of Iona, the main protagonist in Jean's first book River River Raupo Rye. Miriam is now an adolescent, strong minded, resolute and loving, reaching maturity in the troubled times of the Second World War. When war breaks out life in Sedgely changes for everyone. Will Miriam's loved one return? Will her country be safe? Will her work, family and two careers be too much for her young shoulders? It takes courage to survive the demands of these distressing times. This is a feisty book that encompasses more than Miriam and her family. It is alive with the throb of friends, their town and their hardships. Raw, gentle, gutsy, it is sprinkled with humour and backboned with courage. New Zealand as it used to be.