In the 1930s, in a small town in the southern United States, a young woman named Rose, with a free spirit and a life full of heartaches, arrives at the Hillyer household as a maid. From the very first moment, her transformative presence shakes up the quiet world of the family. The mother, Mabel, desperately tries to maintain the appearance of a perfect life, while her two children—sensitive and reserved Buddy, and the more pragmatic, ambitious young man—find themselves irresistibly drawn to Rose's charisma and audacity.
As Rose navigates the family's expectations and her own desire for freedom, she begins to discover the pain and pleasure of human relationships. Her connection with Buddy intensifies, challenging the norms of the society they live in, while Mabel tries to control Rose's influence over her home. The tension escalates when secrets from Rose's life come to light, forcing the family to confront their own demons.
Through an honest and moving portrayal, the story explores themes of love, desire, and the struggle for acceptance in a world that tends to judge. Rose's fate intertwines with that of each family member, leaving an indelible mark on their lives and exposing the complex dynamics that underlie human relationships. Set against a backdrop of struggle and hope, this emotional narrative reveals the transformative power of love and the quest for identity.