The central character is the clergyman Matvey, who moves to a provincial town with his family. At first, it seems like they are in for a quiet and peaceful life in the Russian countryside. However, this impression is false: behind the serene facade, there are horrifying secrets hidden, and many destinies are shattered as the local residents are accustomed to burying their heads in the sand. Father Matvey must figure out on his own what is really happening in the town.