A forgotten love story resurfaces across decades and continents, forcing its participants to confront the choices that shaped their lives. The novel follows a young American innkeeper in 1962 Italy who falls for a visiting film star, a connection that echoes through the lives of those involved for fifty years. The narrative weaves together multiple perspectives and timelines, exploring themes of art, ambition, and the enduring power of memory as characters grapple with missed opportunities and the passage of time.

The novel is celebrated for its intricate structure and its exploration of enduring themes. Critics often highlight Walter's skillful weaving of multiple storylines and his ability to capture the essence of different eras and characters. The book is frequently praised for its poignant examination of love, memory, and the impact of art across time. Readers tend to appreciate the novel's emotional depth and its thoughtful reflection on the choices that define a life.