In Missouri in 1836, Eliza Jackson deals with the aftermath of her mother's death. Determined to care for her father and her younger brother, she desires to keep her family to herself—but the Lord has other plans. As her father falls in love again, it seems as though Eliza's the only one remaining faithful to her mother's memory.

James Hurley is quite taken with his employer's spitfire of a daughter, but Eliza keeps him at arm's length despite his best efforts to win her affections. When Eliza learns that James's interest is more founded in business than pleasure, she is brokenhearted. Her best friend's brother Trennen seems genuinely taken with her. Why can't she convince her heart to love Trennen and forget about James?

Can the truth of James's love be revealed in time to keep Eliza from making a mistake? Can Eliza let go of her fears and enjoy the new life God has given?