An acutely observed story of a young man's journey of self-discovery and how the path of life can take one on many diverse routes. No one knew why Robin abandoned a brilliant university career to start a new life at an eccentric island monastery, but it was thought to have something to do with the surprise engagement of Candida, Robin's childhood playmate, and Jake, their mutual friend. Eight years later, Robin's return to the less spiritual world of London in the late eighties has far-reaching effects. Much has changed: his father has left the City to run a progressive kindergarten in Clapham; Candida is now a household name as a presenter on breakfast television; and Jake is a successful advertising executive. When Robin falls in love at the christening of Candida's baby, he has little idea how extraordinary the consequences will be.