In 1858, Kentucky's slave trade was in its darkest days. But Cassius, a young virile black man, enjoyed a rare peaceful existence and feels privileged to live at Tanglewood. His best friend is John Livingston, an enlightened progressive man. He chose to set up his land as a haven and refuge for the enslaved until emancipation would release them.
Their connection is a driving force, a black and white brotherhood that challenges prejudicial norms of the South. Livingston's actions stir up the hatred and animosity of fellow landowners. Cassius is his best friend and helper and an expert horse trainer. He plans for a victory in the annual county horse race. His win reignites the vicious rivalry of the other landowners.
Then one terrible night, the hidden secrets of John's greedy wife led to an unspeakable tragedy. As his life shatters, Cassius plots vengeful murder. Now he must flee with his pregnant wife, son and father onto the Underground Railroad. Having escaped the hangman's rope, he now has to outrun bounty hunters to reach freedom in the North.
A safe house on the trail hides another traveler. It is his ex-lover and mother of his son. Cassius is forced to see for whom he is willing to fight. Now his freedom is at stake, sharpened by his recognition that they are very much alike. He remembers her kiss but forgets she can betray.