To Stella it represents home - sanctuary from the adrenalin-fuelled highs and corresponding lows of her career as a singer. Stella is tough and talented, adored by every man in every audience but a loser in love.

Spencer McColl is an American ex-fighter pilot making a last sentimental journey from Wyoming to the England of his mother's childhood, and the white horse, to pay tribute to the past.

Harry Latimer sets off to the Crimea as a captain in the Hussars with a heart burdened by his undeclared love for his sister-in-law, Rachel. The grim reality of the battlefield provides a bitter contrast to Harry's memories of the tranquillity of home.

Stella, Spencer, Harry - each marches to the tune of a different drama. Their stories are separated by many miles and generations, but profoundly connected in ways they can never fully understand.