“My new mistress proved to be all she appeared when I first met her at the door—a woman of the kindest heart and finest feelings…But, alas! this kind heart had but a short time to remain such. The fatal poison of irresponsible power was already in her hands, and soon commenced its infernal work. That cheerful eye, under the influence of slavery, soon became red with rage; that voice, made all of sweet accord, changed to one of harsh and horrid discord; and that angelic face gave place to that of a demon.”

--Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

Carrie Adams yearns to be free. Born into wealth and privilege in Richmond, she hides dark secrets in her heart, secrets that hold her captive, secrets she longs to escape. She marries her true love, George, a poor apprentice, and together they leave Richmond behind, coming to a new land in the rugged hills of North Carolina. They carve a farm out of the wilderness. Carrie dares to hope she has left the ghosts of Richmond behind, and that she has found a home, a real home for herself and her family.

Too late, Carrie realizes that the freedom she thinks she has found is an illusion. Moreover, even the illusion has come with a steep price. The bill is coming due. When payment is finally rendered, on the eve of the Civil War, the family is left with nothing save broken and shattered dreams.