Kate Shaw answers the call for an "experienced" teacher for the remote Appalachian settlement of Baines Creek, a small, poor community that has scared away previous teachers. She arrives in August 1970, when a girl has gone missing and dangerous situations threaten several residents, including a young pregnant wife who is being beaten by her bootlegger husband. 
 The events of one week are told through the pov of ten different residents in this isolated community. Although full of hard situations, there is also hope and heart. The unique perspectives are vividly written and propel the plot forward to a surprising, memorable ending.