Dr. Libby O'Hanlon believes she has killed her abusive husband, so she flees. Hiding her identity and profession, she accepts the position of schoolteacher in the town of Deer Creek. She meets Sheriff Matt Brandon and tries to keep her distance until a an abused boy brings the reluctant couple together. They discover love, but then Libby's husband shows up and once again attempts to destroy her life. McKade delivers a gentle tale of love and courage in her debut novel.