"Missouri, 1865. Hester Cain’s world is unraveling. With her father and brother still off waging a guerilla fight against the victorious Union, the quiet young woman tries to keep the three orphans in her charge safe from the local militia’s harassment. And though she has no reason to trust the other side, she shocks herself by opening the door to a wandering Yankee soldier. Struggling to balance the rejection of her childhood sweetheart and a growing bond with her guest, Hester worries her forceful sibling’s return will only bring trouble and chaos. But when tragedy strikes, the determined survivor fears her found family is about to become the final casualty in a never-ending battle."-- Back cover.