It's December 1837 and the Cynster clan have gathered for a family Christmas celebration at Casphairn Manor. The festive occasion brings together tutor, Daniel Crosbie, and Claire Meadows, widow and governess. Claire is the lady with whom Daniel dreams of sharing his life and so strives to persuade Claire that trusting him with her hand and her heart is her right path to happiness. Yet she remains torn—until catastrophe strikes, and she learns that true love is worth any risk, any price.