To escape the ghosts of his past, warrior Lachann MacMillan will forge his place in the world through battle and cunning. What he doesn't count on is the passion of a lifetime . . .

For Lachann, safeguarding his clan comes before life, limb, and especially love. A political marriage in Kilgorra will ensure that MacMillan lands are protected; so much the better that his bride doesn't stir his blood. But what of the intriguing woman who arouses so much more . . . and lives in the very castle where Lachann is to wed?

A nna MacIver is content to serve in her stepfather's household despite the cruelty of her stepsister, Catriona. She has a sanctuary to which she can escape and no romantic notions to impede good sense . . . until Catriona's intended bridegroom arrives in Kilgorra and shows Anna the meaning of desire. Now, with a clan's future hanging in the balance, Anna and Lachann must decide if love is a risk worth taking . . .