In 1914 Vera Brittain wants to escape her traditional family in Buxton, by attending Oxford University with her younger brother Edward Brittain and his friends at Uppingham School, Roland Leighton and Victor Richardson (soldier). Against her father's opposition, she passes the entrance examination for Somerville College, Oxford. Before enrolling at Oxford, Vera and Roland—who shares her interest in writing and poetry—begin a romance, although she knows that Victor is in love with her.