Set against the stark, wintry backdrop of a small Dutch village, the narrative delves into the mind of Maarten Klein, an elderly man grappling with the disorienting descent into dementia. As his memories and grasp on reality begin to unravel, Maarten's once-familiar world becomes a confusing tapestry of fragmented recollections and fleeting moments of clarity. Through his eyes, readers experience the poignant and often heart-wrenching journey of a man losing his sense of self, while his devoted wife, Vera, struggles to hold onto the remnants of their shared life. The story is a profound exploration of memory, identity, and the enduring bonds of love amidst the relentless progression of a debilitating illness.

The book delves into the life of Henry Molaison, known as Patient H.M., whose severe epilepsy led to a groundbreaking but tragic experimental brain surgery that left him unable to form new memories. It explores the ethical and scientific implications of the procedure, shedding light on the history of neuroscience and the personal stories intertwined with it, including the author's own familial connection to the surgeon who performed the operation. Through meticulous research and personal narrative, the book examines the complex interplay between scientific ambition and human cost.

The novel follows Alice, a 39-year-old woman who suffers a head injury at the gym and loses the last decade of her memories. As she navigates her life with the mindset of her 29-year-old self, she is shocked to discover that she is in the midst of a bitter divorce, has three children she doesn't remember, and has become a person she barely recognizes. Through this journey of rediscovery, Alice confronts the changes in her relationships and priorities, ultimately gaining a deeper understanding of herself and the importance of love and forgiveness.