In a small town in the 1940s, the newspaper plays a vital role beyond reporting the events of the day. An honest publication holds people accountable for what they say and do. Dedicated to that responsibility, and to principles of sound, ethical journalism, young Liam Hurley assumes the position of co-editor of The Hawthorne Times. Unfortunately, early in his career, he is drafted into the army, goes to war in Europe, and never returns.

His mother, Ellie, is heartbroken at the loss of her son and vows never to give up his dream. Armed with nothing but a mother's love and her Irish grit, she takes on the task of filling her son's shoes. She recruits her daughter to help, but the good ol' boys' club is not ready to let women into their domain. Secrets, rivalries, and conflicts play an integral part in their struggles.