The film begins on a rainy London night in 1946, when novelist Maurice Bendrix (Ralph Fiennes) has a chance meeting with Henry Miles (Stephen Rea), husband of his ex-mistress Sarah (Julianne Moore). Sarah had put an end to their affair two years prior but Bendrix’s obsession with Sarah is rekindled and he has her followed. Eventually the reason for their separation is revealed: during a bombing raid, Sarah struck a bargain with God. She promised to give up their illicit romance if her lover’s life could be spared. When Bendrix re-enters her life, Sarah is placed in a spiritual dilemma.