Set against the backdrop of World War II,
When the Men Come Home
follows the journey of Helen Cunningham, a young woman whose life is upended when her husband, David, enlists in the Navy after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Left to navigate life on her own, Helen transitions from a retail job to a pivotal role in inventory control at Continental Can Company, embracing newfound independence and responsibility. As she grapples with loneliness, familial tensions, and societal expectations, Helen's resilience shines through. Meanwhile, David's wartime experiences leave him physically and emotionally scarred, and his return home is fraught with challenges as both struggle to reconcile their changed selves. The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the profound impact of war on relationships, culminating in a poignant examination of how couples rebuild their lives when the men come home. Through Helen's unwavering determination and David's turbulent reintegration, Perkins delivers a heartfelt story of perseverance and the enduring power of love.