The story centers on a family of priests: Johannes, Elisabeth and their sons August and Christian. Johannes is God-like to his sons - he gives, loves, and punishes. His favoritism for August and his disappointment with Christian forces both into making desperate choices in order to either gain his love or break free from him.

16-year-old friends Laura and Christine have always been best friends, until the mysterious and exciting Maria comes along. Laura is instantly fascinated by Maria, and finds herself dragged into Marias world of parties, sex and lies. Christine feels left out and cannot understand why Laura has turned her back on her. Laura must decide - should she stay with her best friend, or keep track with Maria?