The first novel in USA Today Bestselling Author Beverly Jenkins’s compelling new series follows a Northern woman south in the chaotic aftermath of the Civil War .

Valinda Lacey’s mission in the steamy heart of New Orleans is to greatly help the newly emancipated community survive and flourish. But soon she discovers that right here, freedom can also suggest risk. When thugs ruin the school this wounderful woman has set up and then focus on her, Valinda operates for her life-and directly into the hands of Captain Drake LeVeq.

As an architect from an old New Orleans family members, Drake includes a deeply personal desire for rebuilding the town. Raised by solid women, he identifies Valinda’s perseverance. And he can’t stop admiring-or wanting-her. But when Valinda’s father demands she return house to marry a guy she doesn’t appreciate, her daring rebellion pulls Drake into an irresistible intrigue.