Prettiness and beauty are perceptions people have of themselves and others. Our perceptions are sometimes based on the images that stare back from a mirror and other times based on the reception we receive from those around us -- friends and strangers alike. Sometimes those we are closest to are our worst critic in how they gauge our looks. These reactions can leave internal scars that may take a lifetime to heal. Some people have external scars that bring them embarrassment and feelings of isolation and carry bitter reminders of the pain and event that caused them. Dr. Simon Bradley has both.

Simon is a gifted plastic surgeon devoting his life to help patients reach some stage of normalcy after bodily damage that demanded the best -- and he was the best. Taking care of these damaged patients was his life and he had realized this was his only path early on. You see he was a damaged person who as a child at the hands of his own mother suffered life altering burns to his body and one side of his face. He remained emotionally detached even from his patients and carefully designed a lifestyle that kept him at arm's length by globetrotting wherever his skills were needed. What he didn't plan on was Fool's Gold and Montana Hendrix, two forces that managed to touch him in a place securely sealed away -- his heart.

Montana was working diligently to exorcize her own demons. Past relationships left her with lingering doubts of her own but luckily she found her calling training therapy dogs. She was at a point where the potential of her dogs was being recognized for their ability to make a difference for patients in nursing homes and hospitals. Montana was reluctant to plunge into dating again but something about Simon naturally drew her to him. She realized he had an enormous gift and his patients and even her dogs were taken with this man who all but growled. No matter how good a couple Simon and Montana made he constantly reminded her that his stay was temporary and Montana had just enough pride left to prevent her from asking him to change his mind and stay. They were such a good match. Simon practically tripping over his tongue each time he was with this beautiful, caring, special woman. He just couldn't believe that Montana was able to see past his scars, actually calling him good looking. Baring his body was a huge leap of faith but baring his soul and exposing his heart would be monumental but if anyone could accomplish this it would be Montana. But only if Simon was brave enough to let her.

What an extraordinary story about brave souls who don't give up. Facing challenges should make a person stronger and Mallery once again shows what love and hope can do. Strong medicine indeed. The Hendrix family saga continues with yet another amazing set of characters bring Fool's Gold to life and leaving us wanting more.