Matthew King was once considered one of the most fortunate men in Hawaii. His missionary ancestors were financially and culturally progressive, one even marrying a Hawaiian princess, making Matt a royal descendant and one of the state's largest landowners. But now, his luck has changed.

His two daughters are out of control—10-year-old Scottie has a smart-ass attitude and a desperate need for attention, while 17-year-old Alex, a former model, is a recovering drug addict. Meanwhile, his thrill-seeking and high-maintenance wife, Joanie, lies in a coma after a boat racing accident, and will soon be taken off life support.

The King family can hardly picture life without their charismatic mother. As they come to terms with this tragedy, their sadness is mixed with a sense of freedom that shames them and spurs them into surprising actions.

Forced to examine what they owe not only to the living but to the dead, Matt, Scottie, and Alex embark on a memorable journey that leads to unforeseen humor, growth, and profound revelations.