Jill Marie Landis brings us a compelling tale of Texas ranch life following the Civil War -- a time when the full moons of summer often heralded brutal Comanche raids that devastated families. Born the daughter of a dockside harlot in a tiny village in Maine, and raised by nuns there in a school for girls, teacher Kate Whittington had few romantic dreams. Answering an advertisement for a mail-order bride was a miraculous chance to gain the home and family she longed for. The wonderful letters she exchanged with her prospective husband in Texas convinced her to risk everything for this one chance at happiness. The proxy marriage went off beautifully, and her new home was even more magnificent than she'd been told. Unfortunately, her husband was more surprised than delighted by his new bride. In fact, Reed Benton Jr. was absolutely furious to learn that his dying father had orchestrated a long-distance courtship on his behalf -- and forged his marriage documents as well. The proud Texas Ranger has just inherited a ranch he doesn't want and a bride he doesn't know. And to top it all off, his young son, Daniel, whom he'd long believed dead, has just been found living among the Comanche -- and Reed's lovely and loving not-quite bride may be the only one who can reach the boy, who is desperate to return to the only life he knows.