No one must suspect she was heartbroken.

Jo had loved Blair most of her life and his sudden engagement to someone else shattered her.

"Find a man of your own, " Marsh McConnell challenged. He had stood by Jo throughout the engagement party, but she could not follow his advice. The memory of her lost love was too recent.

Marsh's invitation to accompany his young niece and nephew to his Outback cattle station came as a relief. Restored by the wild beauty of the country and Marsh's abrasive, overpowering personality, Jo was surprised to find herself jealous -- of the woman who'd already staked a claim on Marsh!