This evocative story follows the stripping away, layer by layer, of the facade of a seemingly perfect marriage. David and Sally appear to be an ideally matched couple. David's work has taken them to the South Pacific nation of New Sudan where they lead a self-indulgent colonial life whilst waiting for David's promotion which will return them to London. Away from home, however, they abandon common sense to explore their individual sexuality in a way which has consequences for the rest of their lives. They return to London bringing with them the mixed-race child whom they have apparently adopted. More children follow and the Pryce-Williams appear to be the ideal family leading a charmed life in affluent southwest London. But with the past refusing to remain in the past the fragile structure is brutally blown apart with heart-breaking consequences for the next generation. This powerful narrative describes how actions taken by individuals, enthralled by self-fulfilment, can have far-reaching effects on those apparently closest to them.