Hitler annexes several countries; Europe is in turmoil. Britain is going to war, the call to arms is passed by parliament. The "Call Up" however, is not for everyone, certain occupations are exempt as they are considered vital to the country and the coming war effort.

Despondent and angry, Detective Inspector Brakes battles with his inner conflicts as he comes to terms with not being able to join his comrades in arms.

However, for DI Brakes, his case load is about to become more diverse than he could ever imagine. For him, his war is also just beginning, but on the Homefront. War-related, murder, espionage and a whole host of other cases ensue.