A young woman's accusation of rape shatters the peace of an idyllic commune and the life of the professor's wife. The arrival of a stranger at the door, seeking the professor, immediately disrupts the tranquil existence of the narrator, who is six months pregnant. The accusation itself, delivered with stark directness, forces the narrator to confront the dark undercurrents of their seemingly perfect community and the complex dynamics between its members, particularly concerning the professor.

The novel is noted for its tense atmosphere and nuanced exploration of a difficult subject. Critics have highlighted its provocative nature and the psychological depth with which it examines the fallout of an accusation within a seemingly utopian setting. The narrative's focus on the narrator's perspective as she navigates the unraveling of her community offers a unique lens on themes of trust and complicity. The book's strength lies in its ability to create suspense and provoke thought through its carefully constructed plot and character interactions.