The novel by contemporary English writer Rosie Thomas tells about a relatively short period in the life of several married couples in a small town near London. The measured and calm way of life of several families, connected by seemingly sincere and strong relationships, suddenly collapses. The reason that caused all these unpredictable changes was the beautiful socialite young woman Nina Court. Nina grew up in this town, but then went to London and got married. Nothing foreshadowed the tragedy, but suddenly the sudden death of her husband forced Nina to change her life...

Nina Court, a young beautiful widow, returns from London to her hometown, which she had not been to for many years. The arrival of Nina, who, like a rare exotic bird, attracts the attention of many men, involuntarily influenced all members of her small circle of friends. The stormy relationship between Nina and Gordon Ransom revealed undercurrents that had recently seemed such happy marriages blew up the apparent well-being of the marital relationship. And the secret became clear...