In this breathtaking novel, New York Times bestselling author Joan Johnston weaves a beguiling tale of two feuding families--the Blackthornes and the Creeds--and of two extraordinary people: loner Owen Blackthorne and beautiful, headstrong Bayleigh Creed, irresistibly drawn to each other despite the desperate odds against their love. Owen Blackthorne is a lone wolf, a man who doesn't need anyone. Then Bayleigh Creed appears on his doorstep, demanding his help in locating her missing brother. Together they head into the desolate West Texas wilderness, a Blackthorne and a Creed, mortal enemies obliged to join forces to survive. Neither counts on the unwanted attraction that draws them together, or the bitter truths that will force them apart--until the ruthless wilderness compels them to make life-and-death choices between family and duty and love.