In 1939 three young journalists, Charles, Bob and Chris (the narrator) are sent by their news agencies to cover the growing crisis in Poland. When the country is invaded by Germany, signalling the beginning of World War II, they are forced to flee southwards, keeping just ahead of the Nazi invaders.
They manage to make it to Yugoslavia, but it too is soon attacked and they are forced to move on again. Amidst the chaos, Chris meets and rapidly falls in love with Helena, a beautiful Yugoslavian girl, and they begin a passionate affair...