Growing up in 1930's Mexico, American Harrison Shepherd quickly learns that his mother is more concerned with social aspirations than his well-being. Due to a tumultuous stint at a Virginia military school and the fact that his mother has a knack for selecting men who fall on the losing side of Mexico's political battles, Harrison takes a withdrawn approach to adulthood. After his mother's repute places him in danger, Harrison ventures back to America, which is in the midst of World War II.
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