Charles Bradshaw is an aging tycoon haunted by his past. When he suffers a heart attack- he abruptly retires and announces that he will give his fortune to charity- which leads to conflict with his wife and adult children. An old girlfriend- Anna- returns unannounced- and brings with her memories of a terrible secret that they share from their youth. Unnerved by their renewed affection for each other- Charles and Anna struggle to overcome their remorese and to make amends- but tension inevitably flares. Meanwhile- Charles's son is taking over the company and becomes intoxicated with his newfound power- intent- it seems- on self-destruction. "A very fine piece of work" - John Banville