Is love enough in times of doubt? Michelle is in her early thirties when her life in the eastern part of the country falls apart. She leaves everything behind and starts anew: as a receptionist in a hotel, she encounters luxury, West German wealth, and Henry. He had very different opportunities than she did, and he has never lacked for anything. They fall in love, despite all their differences. For the first time, it seems possible for Michelle to lead a carefree life. But it wouldn't be a book by Ruth-Maria Thomas if all the beautiful certainties didn't eventually come crashing down. With great narrative pull and enchanting ease, the novel tells a story of aspirations for upward mobility, fears of decline, and the question of what freedom and carefreeness truly cost.