Joseph is the favored manservant of Abram Callcott, owner and master of Delora plantation in antebellum Charleston. But when Brant, the master's son, discovers that Joseph can read, he becomes a serious threat to the ingrained societal laws of the South. Brant administers a violent lesson to Joseph, hoping to silence him.

A benevolent master and a Christian, Abram is confronted by the reality of Joseph's ability. Knowing he must find answers to his growing questions and apprehensions about slavery, Abram sends Joseph to Charleston, where Joseph flourishes under secret tutelage. But as Joseph's quest for knowledge increases, he faces incredible choices in his search to balance his blossoming faith, his intellectual thirst, and the laws that bind them.

It is Joseph's life, through pain, humiliation, and courage, that transforms the lives of his masters, his fellow slaves, and the beautiful mulatto housemaid who discovers the unconditional love of God. But it seems his hope of a future--of freedom--will end in ultimate destruction.... Was God truly there?