Amsterdam

In 1918, Burt Berendsen finds himself reluctantly enlisting in the military, pressured by his estranged wife's family. This decision pulls him from his normal life into the chaos of World War I, setting the stage for his journey into the heart of conflict.

Stationed in France, Burt forges a deep bond with Harold Woodman, an African-American soldier. Together, they confront the challenges posed by neglectful officers, cementing a friendship that transcends racial barriers and military hardships.

Burt and Harold's commander, Bill Meekins, plays a crucial role in ensuring that their battalion is well taken care of amidst the turmoil of war. His supportive leadership fosters the camaraderie among the soldiers, enhancing their resilience in battle.

Following severe injuries on the battlefield, Burt and Harold are cared for by Valerie Bandenberg, a nurse who uses her artistic flair to create art from the shrapnel. Through her unique healing methods, Valerie becomes an integral part of their journey to recovery.

After the war, Burt, Harold, and Valerie choose to relocate to Amsterdam, where they nurture their deepening friendship. This move signifies a new chapter in their lives, seeking normalcy after the horrors of war.

In Amsterdam, Valerie introduces Burt and Harold to Paul Canterbury and Henry Norcross, who disguise their espionage activities under the pretext of a glass eye business. Their mysterious offer of assistance hints at future complications in Burt and Harold's lives.

As time progresses, Burt heads back to New York City, yearning for reconnection with his wife. Meanwhile, Harold grapples with a complicated romance with Valerie, caught between her past and his desire to advocate for war veterans.

By 1933, Burt has established a medical practice focused on helping fellow veterans. His determination to innovate pain relief solutions underscores his ongoing commitment to aiding those who served alongside him.

Burt is approached by Elizabeth, Meekins' daughter, who asks him to perform an autopsy on her father, suspected to be murdered on a recent trip. This pivotal moment thrusts Burt and Harold into a web of intrigue and danger.

During the autopsy, Burt and Irma discover troubling evidence of poison, raising questions about Meekins' death. Their investigation intensifies as they find themselves framed alongside Elizabeth for her tragic demise.

As they dig deeper, Burt and Harold uncover a conspiracy involving Tom Voze and his wife, Libby. Valerie, now caught in their dangerous schemes, is revealed to have been poisoned to maintain her compliance with their malicious plans.

Burt reaches out to General Gil Dillenbeck for crucial information that could shed light on Meekins' murder. Their connection proves significant as the depth of the conspiracy unravels around them.

Faced with threats from the hitman Taron Milfax, Burt, Harold, and Valerie follow leads that lead them to confrontations with a shadowy organization known as the Committee of the Five. Their lives become intertwined again with their former allies against these insidious forces.

During a pivotal gala attended by General Dillenbeck, confrontations occur that test the loyalties and courage of all involved. The ensuing chaos results in arrests but leaves behind a legacy of political slander and shattered alliances.

In the aftermath, as friendships undergo trials, Harold and Valerie decide to leave a country that denies them peace. Burt resolves to reclaim his medical practice and pursue his evolving relationship with Irma as they embrace their futures.