Maxim, a budding writer seeking true freedom, moves to Calabasas and quickly becomes entangled in the opulent and magical world of Candace Winters, the enigmatic "Calabasas Countess." He finds himself a guest in her lavish back house, drawn into her circle of socialites and trust fund babies, all while grappling with his own artistic ambitions. Initially charmed by Candace and her seemingly effortless allure, Maxim soon uncovers a web of manipulation, hidden powers, and deep-seated insecurities that challenge his perception of reality and freedom.
As he navigates this treacherous new social landscape, he witnesses the destructive nature of unchecked power, the complexities of old friendships, and the lengths to which people will go to maintain control and relevance. Through a series of magical encounters, personal betrayals, and a dramatic confrontation, Maxim is forced to confront the true meaning of freedom, the intoxicating allure of magic and influence, and ultimately, his own role as a storyteller in immortalizing the fantastical lives he encounters.