New York, 1965

Helen is the image of perfection. To the world she is a loyal wife, mother and friend. But, although her beauty draws the eye, no one sees who she really is. Helen is trapped in a prison of her own making, suffocated by her own lies.

But a chance encounter with the enigmatic Paris opens her eyes to new possibilities. Beneath the false smiles and clipped British accent, Paris sees that Helen desperately longs to be free from her oppressive life.

Having grown up in Harlem, a vibrant community made up mostly of immigrants, Paris’ life couldn’t be further from Helen’s, yet their differences only bring them closer together. But when political and social unrest ignites a fire within the people of Harlem, their worlds collide, setting in motion events that will destroy lives and tear families apart…