During the summer after high school graduation, Randal Anderson finds his soul mate, Allyson Crawford, but there are problems. Allyson comes from an "old money," Catholic family in Boston, while Randal comes from a middleclass, Mormon family in Salt Lake. Their love is confirmed in an ancient spirit circle on the legendary mountain named Timpanogos. The difficult relationship breaks up when Randal makes a stupid mistake.
After years of regret, Randal marries Maria Elena, a Spanish teacher and flamenco dancer. The marriage of short-lived passion deteriorates, while Randal makes his mark in the computer business. As the marriage falters, Randal begins an erotic affair with another woman he knows he can never love. Maria is killed in a tragic traffic accident while Randal is driving their car. Randal, guilt-ridden, dedicates his life to raising their three children.
Though he has heard of Allyson's death, the memories of Timpanogos and that perfect summer love haunt his mind. As the children grow and prepare to leave home, Karen Troy comes into his life. Now he must finally rid himself of his phantom love, Allyson. He has a plan, but before he can implement it, he is led into the unexpected.
