Ludie Blackwell grew up in the small Texas town of Blackwater in the midst of a loving circle of family and friends. If you asked her, she would tell you her life is just fine like it is. She wouldn't mind traveling, becoming famous, or falling in love, just like any other woman her age. She just doesn't think any of that is likely to happen to her, and she settles into life as she knows it. When a fire breaks out in the cafe' where she works, it brings into town Eric Butler, a handsome and sophisticated businessman. She's flattered by his attention, and eventually overcomes her shyness in order to take a chance on love. A whole new world is opened up to her. When the relationship becomes clouded with darkness and abuse, she begins keeping secrets from those who love her the most. When the abuse becomes physical, she is forced to face her grief from a crushing and unbearable loss. She reaches out in a cry for help and her friends and a few unexpected allies come to her rescue. They set out to avenge the wrongs done to her but will they be too late? Will she give up on love forever or will love and loyalty be enough to restore the faith and courage to follow her dreams?