"She opened the velvet case and observed its contents. She was immediately attracted to the strange object, so refined, more than ever fascinated by the mysterious engraved symbol. She felt safe, protected, as if a magical benevolent presence had entered her home, which had come to life in her hands. Perhaps she had only dreamed--the diaphanous image of a perfect oval with delicate features, framed by blond curls gathered in a bun at the top of her head. Around her neck she wore the purple cameo."

The life of Donatella Soresini, a reporter for Tg1, is marked by busy schedules and work commitments. It is not very different from the existence of many lonely people, like the characters who revolve around her and who, from chapter to chapter, enter the scene, with their memories and dramas. Describing the evocative nighttime atmosphere of Rome, the plot reveals the secrets, vices and boredom of lost or resigned souls. It all happens in 1991, in October, the most magical time in the eternal city. Everything changes, the very moment Donatella enters an antique store....