This is the story of generations of a dysfunctional family living in a small town in Mississippi mainly over a period of nine years.They cope with misunderstandings, racial discrimination, cults, mental illness and secrets. The heroine, Tallulah, tries to protect her siblings. Desparate, she leaves town to create a new life for herself. But her past is always there and affects her relationships with others. Can her family survive is what this novel is all about. The author, Susan Crandall, has created very strong characters. A small town mentality where everyone knows everything plays a big part here. When the law holds a grudge and passes it down to the next generation, living a normal life becomes impossible. Tallulah knows she must return and try to put things right.