Ava finds out she has HIV. Her (sex) life wont be the same but she is refusing to give into despair. She packs up for a summer trip to see her sister in Idlewild, somewhere that her business isn't in the street. Her sister, Joyce, couldn't meet her at the airport so an old family friend, Eddie, picks her up. As they all get closer, Ava finds herself very attracted to Eddie and he to her. Before they decide to express their feelings, they both tell stories of their painful pasts that made them who they are at that moment. That included Ava telling him about her health status. And just like a book, the first man she admits it to doesn't have a problem with it, they make love (with protection) and start a relationship. In the midst of all this lovey-dovey stuff, Joyce is battling with her the church reverend's wife, Gerry, about a teen girl youth group that Gerry doesn't not agree with. Joyce is trying to educate the young women on sex, abuse, taking charge of their lives. All things Gerry believes are sinful to discuss - just give it to the lord. This is where all the drama of the book lies, between Joyce and Gerry.