After being attacked by the violent man her brother wants her to marry, Jedda-Lyn Cross knows she has to escape. But options are limited in the small western town where she lives - her attacker's family is rich and the sheriff is corrupt, and helping her is a risk nobody will take. If she wants her freedom, she's going to have to find it herself.

She flees in the middle of the night, penniless, and without a horse, disguised as a boy, planning to hire on with the north-bound cattle drive, led by the famous trail boss Wes Jordan. When her disguise is blown, instead of sending her away, the handsome trail boss vows to protect her. This is easier said than done, though, because Jedda-Lyn is sassy, headstrong and stubborn, with a reckless disregard for her personal safety that finally pushes Wes too far. After a painful punishment that leaves her bottom burning and her mind whirling, the attraction between them is undeniable, and Jedda wants nothing more than to stay in the arms of the handsome cowboy.

But her relentless former suitor won't let her go without a fight. With danger closing in, it will take all the men and guns of the cattle drive outfit to protect her, and give her a chance at true love. And even then, it may not be enough.