In a forgotten village in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, Elena and Diego have loved each other since childhood. Until the fateful day when Elena is raped in front of the terrified Diego, unable at that moment to react to help her.

The dreams of their eternal love shatter into a thousand pieces, and Elena leaves the village for Juárez, one of the most dangerous cities in the country, seeking better fortune. Her traces vanish, and circumstances lead Diego to leave and search for her in the hell of the metropolis where illegality, violence, and cartels dominate.

In his attempt to find the love of his life again, Diego will gradually sink into the brutality and corruption of Juárez and will face his worst nightmares.

Based on a true story, Yasmina Khadra masterfully narrates a harsh journey where innocence and love struggle to survive in a world that is literally ruthless.