The soap opera portrayed the daily lives of three generations to show that there is no ideal time to love and be happy. The relationship between widower Álvaro and lawyer Bruna is shaken by the arrival of sweet Madalena in the fictional town of Nova Esperança. The young woman is hired as a housekeeper for businessman Xistus, Álvaro's father-in-law, and charms everyone.

Wanted for killing his boss, Manuel flees with his wife Rosa to the sertão, the barren landscape of Northern Brazil. Thrust into a primordial violent region, Manuel and Rosa come under the influence and control of a series of frightening figures.