The Civil War is over, and Samuel, a former slave and Union soldier, has built a good reputation as a carpenter and pioneer in South Florida. Life is good, too, until the unexpected death of their newborn twins fractures his family. Their strength and faith are tested, each member in their own way.

Amid the mourning, Samuel's young daughters, Dorinda and Jamilla, discover a stranger named Mr. Ray planting moonflowers in a field near the family's cabin. He asks the girls to keep the flowers a secret. They agree, and Mr. Ray returns several evenings to teach them a unique way to feed moonflowers.

Samuel must travel into town each day for work. In his absence, his wife, Phiby, slips deeper into despair. Their young daughters, Dorinda and Jamilla, struggle to understand all that has happened and their mother's distress. Much is expected of them as they take care of the homestead and try to help her.

What are the mysterious Mr. Ray's true motives? What secret bond does he have with Samuel and his family? Are the girls able to keep a secret? Can Samuel overcome his painful past, keep his faith in God, and hold his family together?