It had been a clear case of self-defense, but Maddie Rutledge was branded a murderer by a corrupt judge and sent to prison. Now on her way to testify against those who imprisoned her, she is escorted by a lawman with a tarnished past of his own. For Rivlin Kilpatrick it was to be a routine assignment. But there is nothing ordinary about this fiery woman whose compassion touches his soul and forces him to confront the demons that have driven him to the lonely life of a U.S. marshal. And there is nothing easy about their trek to Leavenworth, for an unknown enemy has determined that neither will arrive there alive. Maddie cannot say which danger threatens more peril--those who want her dead, or the dream of a love she can never have.