As the 20th Century draws to a close, liberal syndicated columnist Melanie Dvorak has excellent health, more money than she knows what do with, and a supportive if eccentric husband. Yet she is troubled by anxiety and worries that she is out of touch with her readership. A violent encounter at a fancy boutique in Boston's Back Bay gives her notoriety but not fame on her own terms. As her husband Simon Herbst dabbles in independent film production, Melanie explores unexpected avenues to bring her through the tumult of a new age.