Family secrets. Forbidden love. And the true price of wealth.

The story begins with a dinner party invitation ... When young journalist Thomas Cleary is sent to dig up quotes for the obituary of a legendary film producer, the man's eccentric daughter offers him access to the exclusive upper echelons of Hollywood society. As Thomas enters a world of private jets and sprawling mansions, his life and career take off beyond his wildest dreams.

Then he meets Matilda Duplaine.

Beautiful and mysterious, Matilda has spent her entire life within the walls of her powerful father's Bel-Air estate. Thomas is entranced, and the two begin a secret love affair. But the more he learns about the mysterious woman's identity, the more he realizes that privilege always comes with a price.

"Brunkhorst's story is full of memorable characters and contains a first-rate plot; the latter will delightfully surprise the reader. This is a bittersweet treat that will appeal to a wide audience."—Publishers Weekly