The story starts with Raya’s family disagreeing about her marriage to Bakari Abba, who ends up being controlling. She has a son named Karim but leaves her husband and returns to her parents when he is three. Karim is primarily cared for by his grandmother and becomes friends with his half-brother, Ali. Raya eventually leaves her hometown with another man, Haji. Karim moves in with Ali after his grandmother’s death.
Karim goes to the University of Dar es Salaam, occasionally visiting his mother and her husband. In his second year, he moves in with them and Othman, the somewhat mysterious father of his stepdad.
The story introduces Badar, a young man sent to work as a servant in Raya, Haji, and Othman’s home. Badar is related to Othman and has a complicated family history. Karim recognizes Badar’s intelligence and befriends him, leaving him detective novels to read.
In a separate storyline, we meet Fauzia, a bright teenager who forms a close friendship with Hawa. Fauzia excels in school, goes to college, and eventually becomes engaged to Karim, who works in the same town.
During Karim’s wedding, Badar cares for Othman. Othman’s hatred towards Badar grows, leading to false accusations. Karim helps Badar move to Zanzibar, where he secures a job and his own place.
Badar progresses in his career at a hotel and meets a British woman, Geraldine. They start an affair, causing Karim to leave his family for Geraldine. Fauzia and Badar eventually realize their love for each other.
The story ends with Fauzia and Badar embracing on the beach. The narrative introduces various characters and weaves their stories together, creating a complex and interconnected community. The characters are depicted with nuance and development throughout the story.