This novel portrays Hildegunn, a middle aged woman who early on was a farmer’s wife and mother. Her day consists of practical work, there is no time for other values. Robert, who has spent 50 years in America, comes back to the village where he grew up. Here, he is still the poor kid, like he was in his childhood. A relationship develops between the two. But suspicion and gossip flourishes in the village, spreading evil.