A family’s long-held secrets threaten to unravel their carefully constructed lives when a sudden crisis forces them to confront the past. Belva Plain explores the intricate dynamics of the Stern family as they navigate shifting loyalties and hidden betrayals. The narrative follows the protagonist as they attempt to reconcile personal desires with the expectations of their social circle and family legacy. Set against a backdrop of mid-to-late 20th-century American life, the story examines how individual choices ripple through generations. The prose maintains a focus on domestic tension and the psychological weight of long-buried truths.

Readers frequently highlight the author's ability to construct complex family webs that feel grounded in reality. Discussion often centers on the moral dilemmas faced by the characters and the consequences of their past decisions. Critics note the consistent focus on character development over rapid plot progression, which allows for a deeper understanding of the family's internal conflicts. The atmosphere is often described as reflective and somber, emphasizing the weight of history on the present generation. Many readers appreciate the steady pacing that mirrors the slow unfolding of long-held secrets.