A young woman disillusioned by love. A powerful and ruthless man haunted by the past. Neither entirely what they seem to be. Family and friends with their own agendas. Manipulation, deception and betrayal. A vindictive journalist, a beautiful brothel-keeper and a formidable henchman. Bribery, blackmail and intimidation. During a long hot summer their lives intertwine and many change forever. There are winners. There are losers.