Her family's survival matters more than anything¿even her own heart.As the 1930 drought burns crops burn to a crisp in tiny Eden, Arkansas, Bryony Linwood relies on forced optimism and dogged determination to disguise a heart as dry and despairing as the scorched earth.Reclusive Michael Heath barely survived the Great War, and twelve years later all he wants is to forget. His one passion is botanical illustration, where nature's beauty offers blessed escape from a troubled past and his wealthy father's continual disparagement.When Bryony accepts employment at the Heath mansion, it's just a job at first¿until she discovers Michael Heath and his beautiful illustrations. Their friendship soon blossoms into healing for wounded souls and a love that can't be denied.