Mallet Thorne is in trouble, big trouble. All because he listened to a gypsy fortune-teller and not his own heart. He just wanted to make right the pain his brother, outlaw Mace Thorne, caused in Silverpines. So at the advice of the Gypsy he answers an advertisement for a groom. He has every intention of becoming the husband and father to a widow and her children even though he is unsure if he would be a good father and husband. That is until he sees the most beautiful woman ever. He's drawn to the beauty even as he sees the distrust in her eyes. Catrina Rosenmeyer hears the name of the newest man in Silverpines and is overcome with fear. Long ago a gypsy fortune-teller warned her to beware the thorn and she's convince Mallet is who she meant. All she wants is to stay hidden and grieve for her sister. So why is she drawn to the handsome Thorne like a moth to flame? Can the two of them follow the gypsy's advice or will the mutual attraction they feel overwhelm their fears and obligations? Will Mallet marry the widow or follow his heart to the beautiful Catrina? Will Catrina put aside fear and seek to build a foundation with the stonemason?