Placed in the Young Ladies' Academy by her well-meaning sisters, Constance Cameron feels smothered. She hates England and desperately wants to return to America. Since her sisters have found happiness with their new English husbands, they ignore her pleas. Constance decides to run away and locate a ship to take her home. Escaping into the night, she stumbles upon a handsome Scottish rebel who grabs her. After landing a few good punches, Constance discovers he's attempting to kidnap her. She goes willingly, thinking she will flee once they get close to the coast.

Gordon Lachlan, the new Laird MacKenna, leads a ragtag group of Scots wanting to overthrow English rule. Their old leader fled to Italy, taking their money, leaving behind broken promises. Lachlan believes he can get the legendary sword of MacKenna and restore faith in his cause. He kidnaps Constance and asks for the sword as ransom from her new brother-in-law. With the English on his trail, Lachlan flees through the forest and mountains to escape. He expects a spoiled heiress and is surprised to find a capable young woman with vitality and a fighting spirit he wished his people had.

Lachlan meets his match in Constance. She sees with clarity that Lachlan is fighting for a lost cause. Constance tries to give him hope for the future, but with a price on his head, Lachlan sees a miserable short life before him. Constance refuses to accept that answer and instead seeks to find hope.

Cathy Maxwell continues her series with a lively love story between two outcasts. Clashes between the sassy, spirited heroine and the warrior hero result in funny and lively encounters. Ms. Maxwell balances the humor with emotionally moving scenes that bear her unique spark.