Set in New Orleans in 1836 after a long period of French rule that permitted common-law marriages between free women of color and white men. If the men died, the women could inherit grand houses and dazzling fortunes. Unfortunately, when Beartrice Albans’ man passes away, his legal white wife is waiting to steal her house and her daughters’ dowries. Two daughters, Agnés and Odette, long for romance. Agnés is close to becoming an old maid, and Odette has a dark complexion that is not favored by the status quo. The other, Maude Lynn yearns only for the Lord. When a handsome bachelor comes calling, a family secret is revealed, and the foundation of Beatrice’s household is rocked to its core.