Fearless and outspoken, Lady Mariota MacNichol must run for her life. Accused of murdering the unworthy rogue she once loved, she boldly takes possession of deserted Cuidrach Castle, the one place her enemies would never look. Then, the new laird of Cuidrach unexpectedly arrives. Sir Kenneth Mackenzie is a fierce knight well experienced in bawdy pleasures and willing wenches—though his last liaison left him wounded in pride and love. Chivalrous enough to open Cuidrach's portals to a lady-in-distress, he keeps the path to his heart well-barred. But now the strong-willed Mackenzie is living with a fiery, passionate woman unafraid of his formidable reserve. Eating at the same table, warming themselves by the same fire...how long will it be before these two share the same bed?