It can never be said that Sarah Nightingale is a typical lady. As a 17-year-old, she is approaching old-maid status and does not seem to care. She is independent, outspoken, and more than able to run her father's farm. Tobias, her terminally ill father, realizes this but still yearns to see her married. Unwed girls cannot inherit property. He fears that Sarah will lose everything after he passes away. The betrothal that was meant to protect Sarah becomes the greatest threat to her life. Some aristocrats do not want a woman of her race marrying into a noble family. Deadly plots are launched to tear the lovers apart. Can Sarah and Matthew fend off the attacks of those who plot against them in this riveting winter romance?