A social-minded socialite, a widowed blacksmith, and a dead fiancé. Despite her father's objection, Amanda travels to Texas from Boston, intent on marrying Reverend Coolidge and helping with his ministry. There she will be free from her parent's expectations and have a chance to help the less fortunate. Everything is going to be perfect until a handsome blacksmith meets her at the train station.Gunter senses something isn't right the moment the deputy sheriff demands he pick up the reverend's future bride, and not to mention the reverend's passing. To protect his daughter, Gunter complies. Having experienced the loss of his wife and son, he would do anything to help Amanda in her grief, except agree to a marriage of convenience. Without means to return to Boston, Amanda hatches plan after plan to return home.

Inundated with proposals and evidence of foul play, she relies on Gunter's protection. Running out of choices, Gunter agrees to marry her for one month to keep her safe from those intent on harming her. However, life and danger in Texas is so much bigger than she had ever imagined.