As children, Nate and Anneka spy on their neighbours the Carters with whom they have some kind of connection . 40 years later night is living in the same house in a parents and his sister is returning after a period of estrangement. They are still spying on the Carters, ‘Uncle Jim’ having become ‘ Carter. Meanwhile back in the 50s Drummond Moore meets James Carter while are both doing national service, and barmaid Gwen goes about her business. Not sure where all this is going, or that I understand the connections but the writing is fluent and enjoyable and I would definitely want to read more