At the turn of the century the wealthy Ferenc family lived in carefree splendor—summering in the lush countryside, wintering in elegant townhouses.

Eva and Malie Ferenc, swept up in the fervor of endless glittering parties, were content and secure in their moneyed, fun-filled world, where romance was for the asking.

But when Malie fell in love with a young officer, Karoly, her father forbade the match. As for Eva, she had long adored the dashing and irresponsible Felix, who loved no one but himself.

Soon, however, there was more than love to fill their minds. As the holocaust of war scarred the land and the ruling aristocracy began to crumble, the proud, privileged Ferencs, "tainted" by Jewish blood, were forced to remember their heritage.