Investigating a murder in a family too much like his own, El Paso Homicide Detective Devon Gray walks a tightrope between protecting his kin and upholding the law. When his ex-con brother is implicated in the case, Devon strives to keep silent about his brother's complicity while seeking the truth. Award-winning author Elizabeth Fackler deftly portrays the two families opposed across the field of one detective's love and honor.

Lily Cassidy's childhood happiness is shattered when her father is murdered by political opponents. Powerless to act against her father's killer, she consents to a loveless marriage with Emmett Moss in exchange for his promise of vengeance. What follows this bitter deal leaves Lily standing on her own as the matriarch of a legend. When Emmett's niece arrives at his ranch, the lady-like Claire presents a cool contrast to tomboy Lily. Known for her common sense more than her beauty, Lily forges a friendship with the delicate Claire that outlasts everything in their lives except the land itself....