The action of the book unfolds in early 20th century Macedonia under Ottoman rule, during the period of the Macedonian Struggle. The Lake of Giannitsa is the focal point of the conflicts between the Bulgarian and Greek armed forces vying for control of the area. The author utilizes historical material based on her study of archives and personal testimonies, which she combines with fictional elements. The main characters are Apostolis and young Jovan, guides for the Greek guerrillas through the labyrinthine paths of the swamp. Around them move historical figures—such as Captain Agras and Captain Nikiforos—and fictional heroes, who participate in the struggle and face the harshness of war.
The novel was published in 1937 and is a continuation of "Mangas".