Envious whispers. Old rivalry. New betrayals. Two months have passed since Miss Elizabeth Holland returned to the bosom of her family, and all of Manhattan is eagerly awaiting her return to high society. But when Elizabeth refuses to join her sister Diana at the balls, those watching the glamorous family's every move once again begin to suspect that all is not well behind the doors of number seventeen Gramercy Park. Henry Schoonmaker lives closer to the city center with his young wife Penelope, and the whole of Manhattan is talking about this couple. But despite the sparkling diamond on the finger of the newly minted Mrs. Schoonmaker, the couple feel nothing but contempt for each other. And although the newspapers call Penelope's best friend Caroline Broad, who is quickly gaining a reputation in society, a rich heiress, her money and fame are by no means safe, especially when one of the darlings of high society shares stories from her circle with the sensation-hungry press. The most talked about residents of Manhattan seem to have it all: wealth, beauty, happiness. But sometimes the most scandalous secrets are hidden under the most dazzling smiles...