The sweet scent of honeysuckle makes a perfect Carolina summer. After Raylene Hammond found the courage to leave her abusive husband, the Sweet Magnolias took her in—providing her with the safety she needed to heal. But now, a year later, the trauma she endured has left her unable to leave the house. When a terrible accident nearly occurs, due in part to her condition, she decides it's time to seek help. With her friends' support and encouragement, Raylene starts her journey to recovery. Along the way, she meets sheriff's deputy Carter Rollins, who understands why she feels trapped inside and wants to see her succeed. He's even taken to bringing the outside world to her when she doesn't feel ready to confront it. As Raylene and Carter's relationship begins to bloom, she must decide if she's ready to start anew or if they'll never have more than this one sweet summer.