Blessed with a unique vocal ability, David Atkins is a timid young southern boy when, at the age of eight, he is introduced to a manipulative former opera diva, Carlotta Vasselli. Recognizing David's gift, Carlotta, with the aid of her husband, develops a plot which grants them ultimate control of David's life and talent. For ten years, Carlotta grooms him to become Ernesto Vasselli, an international opera star. As Ernesto, he experiences the highs of a sensational opera career spanning nineteen years in Italy until his relationship with an opera legend brings his career to an abrupt end. Ultimately betrayed by those closest to him, Ernesto is forced to make life-changing choices and flee for his life.