After the Civil War, Southern men who’d fought for the Union returned home to an uncertain reception. Only two percent of the population had owned slaves, and it was only a matter of time before that system would disintegrate. War and reconstruction, unfortunately, did nothing to bring healing to a nation deeply divided.

After seven years away from home, Simon McNeil is eager to see his family again. A stop at a farmhouse in North Georgia for a good meal and a soft bed turns into an extended stay when his malaria recurs.

Daviana Spalding nurses Simon through his illness and snares his heart with her gentle beauty. When her home is threatened, what can Simon do but rescue her by claiming to be her fiancé. How will he ever get back to Alabama now?