After bitter conflict and bloodshed over its precious water rights, by the 1840's the Valle de Lagrimas is one of the most peaceful, thriving areas of California. Until its owner, Ysanne de Rivas, returns after spending six months in Monterey to find that the valley is once more filled with tears. Caught up in a feud to gain possession of it, who can she trust? Her only brother Felipe, or Ruy Valdez, the man she believes is responsible for her father's death the only man she will ever love?