Two impoverished socialites attempt to maintain their status in high society by entering a marriage of convenience that quickly complicates their personal ambitions. Susy Branch and Nick Lansing navigate the rigid expectations of the 1920s elite, relying on the generosity of wealthy friends to sustain their lifestyle. Their objective is to secure a permanent place within the upper class, but they face constant pressure from their own moral compromises and the volatile nature of their social circle. The narrative framework utilizes a third-person perspective to observe the intricate social maneuvers and the logical constraints of a world where reputation is the primary currency. As their financial instability threatens their union, they must confront the reality of their choices and the true cost of their social aspirations.

Readers and critics often analyze this work as a sharp critique of the superficiality inherent in the Jazz Age social scene. Discussion frequently centers on the moral ambiguity of the protagonists as they struggle to balance their desire for luxury with their genuine affection for one another. Many observers highlight the precision of the prose, noting how the author captures the subtle shifts in power dynamics within elite social circles. The pacing is described as deliberate, allowing for a thorough examination of the characters' psychological states and the societal pressures they endure. This novel is frequently cited for its ability to maintain a balance between social commentary and the personal stakes of the central relationship.