Across the River and into the Trees

Across the River and Into the Trees follows an American colonel, stationed in Venice after World War II, who has a final love affair with a woman half his age. The story begins with Colonel Cantwell hunting on the Adriatic coast of Italy where he experiences a number of flashbacks recounting his experiences in the two world wars.

Cantwell is assigned to Venice after serving as military governor of Trieste following the Surrender of Italy in 1943. During this time, he becomes enamored with Renata, an Italian woman who works at the hotel where he lives. Their romance is interrupted by news that Cantwell's unit will be transferred to London for further assignment at Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force. At this news, Renata reveals her intention to end their relationship because she cannot bear to continue without him should he die during war.