Orphaned at two, Renie has never known a mother's love. Weaned on rejection and raised on neglect by a bitter stepmother, she's unsure how to mother her own children, passing on what she believes are the proper roles of men and women. After a life filled with tragedy and heartbreak, she realizes she may have created a respectful, obedient daughter, but she's also made her meek and submissive. Her son, on the other hand, has been groomed from birth to assume his father's role as lord and master of the family. Unfortunately, he also inherits his quick temper.