In the picture-perfect seaside village of Lady Helen, South Africa, Monica Brunetti has the life of her dreams -- two adopted sons, fulfilling work, loyal friends and a special closeness with her former housekeeper, Francina. What's more, she's in love.

Then everything comes tumbling down.

Monica's happiness is destroyed by a young girl's resentment. Francina, too, is plunged into grief. And a series of crimes rocks the village.

Yet Monica must go on, as a mother and a journalist and a woman of faith -- who believes, even in her darkest hour, that the risks of love are worth taking.