The story begins in a rural village in Vietnam, where Le Ly, a young girl, lives a peaceful life with her family. However, their tranquility is shattered by the Vietnam War. Le Ly's village becomes a battleground, forcing her to endure unimaginable hardships and witness the brutal impact of war on her family and community. Despite the trauma and loss, she exhibits resilience, surviving imprisonment and torture. Le Ly is eventually forced to flee to Saigon, where she encounters both betrayal and unexpected kindness, further complicating her journey.

In Saigon, Le Ly meets Steve Butler, an American soldier who marries her and takes her to the United States. Initially, life in America offers a stark contrast to the ravages of war she experienced in Vietnam. However, adapting to a new culture and navigating complex personal dynamics presents new challenges. The relationship between Le Ly and Steve becomes strained due to cultural differences, emotional scars from the war, and personal turmoil. As they struggle with these difficulties, Le Ly's journey of survival transforms into one of self-discovery and resilience in the face of trauma.