Victoria Ryan tasted sweet freedom -- and love -- in Boston, far from the cast-iron code of behavior that shacklesw woman in Alta California. Now she has come home to find nothing has changed -- that she is to be married against her wishes by her father's decree. And she will share a hidden fortune with anyone who helps her escape.Rugged and rough, Nick Kincade carefully guards his secrets as he lives by his own law. Yet the cold-as-steel ex-Texas Ranger is willing to escort the bewitching, headstrong lady back East. For the past has already linked Victoria's destiny with his. And anything can happen on the hard, twisted trail -- especially for two strong courageous hearts who searing, white-hot flame of perilous desire.