Seeking refuge, they arrive at the doorstep of the Boatwright sisters, August, June, and May, three black beekeeping sisters who run a honey business and live by their own unique code of self-reliance and acceptance. Lily quickly becomes a part of the family, finding a loving and supportive environment that is a stark contrast to her past.
As Lily learns about the sisters' past and their connection to her late mother, she begins to unravel the truth about her mother's life and death. She also discovers the secrets of the "Black Madonna," a powerful symbol of hope and resilience that binds the Boatwright sisters together.
Through their experiences with beekeeping, the power of nature, and the deep bond of sisterhood, Lily learns about forgiveness, acceptance, and finding her own voice. The story explores themes of racial prejudice, family secrets, and the search for identity against the backdrop of the Civil Rights era in the American South.
The novel culminates in a poignant and cathartic climax, where Lily confronts her past and finally finds peace and understanding. The ending leaves readers with a sense of hope and the understanding that even in the face of adversity, love, acceptance, and the power of community can prevail.