It’s 1876 and eligible bachelors
are scarce in Hickory Ridge. But Carrie Daly has found love. Not the
weak-in-the-knees kind, but something practical. Still, she isn’t quite
ready to set a date with Nate Chastain.
Griff Rutledge is passing through
to collect an old debt. Formerly a member of Charleston society, Griff
has been estranged from his family for years. Determined to lead an
unencumbered life, he is on his way to explore the gold fields and
cattle ranches of Australia. But when he’s asked to train a Thoroughbred
for an upcoming race in Hickory Ridge, he decides to stay a bit longer.
Despite objections from the
townsfolk, and her fear that true happiness has eluded her, Carrie is
drawn to Griff’s kindness and charm. But Griff isn’t sure if he wants to
settle down. It will take a leap of faith for them to open their hearts
and claim God’s promise of beauty for ashes.