When Clayton Proffitt, foreman of the Circle Z Ranch in Texas, discovers Vanessa Grant is the victim of her stepfather’s advances, Clayton knows he must protect her honor and move her far away from the ranch --- and from the man she fears.

As they make their way West, an unexpected, deep bond develops between Vanessa and Clayton --- far more powerful than a mere friendship or his sense of duty to her. But Vanessa’s stepfather won’t let her go so easily. As Clayton and Vanessa place their faith in God and their trust in each other, will they find healing and hope for the future together?

2. At first glance Vanessa is a terribly vulnerable heroine. However, she’s more than just a woman in danger. What qualities does she display that make her admirable?

3. Did Vanessa and Clayton have a choice about leaving the Circle Z? How do you think things could have been resolved if they had stayed?

4. Clayton and Vanessa come in contact with many people scarred by the war. Who was your favorite person they met along the way?

5. Was Ken right in encouraging Clayton to marry Vanessa? What do you think about his reasons? Was it simply for safety?

6. Miles was as much of a victim as Vanessa. At the beginning of the novel, he hopes to make Price respect him. How was this goal doomed from the start?

7. Lacy was a character who was fairly multifaceted. Although she used people in order to survive, she also did many good deeds. What do you think will happen in her future?

8. Vanessa lies to Clayton several times. First, she lies about what really happened between her and Price. Later, she lies about contacting the bank for money. What do these lies say about her character?

9. When Clayton discovers the truth about Vanessa, he feels that he’s not only let her down but also his promise to her father as well. Was he right to leave her? 339

10. During their separation, their letters serve to bring them closer in ways that conversations couldn’t. Have you ever found letters to be useful to you in that way?

11. How does Clayton’s injury help both his relationship with Vanessa and his friendship with Merritt?

12. Scout, Corrine and Clayton’s brother, is never actually in the book, but he plays an important role with both Corrine and Clayton. What purpose do you suppose he serves?

13. Why do you think it had to be Miles who shoots Price? How might the story have ended differently if Clayton had killed him? What do you think would have happened if Price had lived?

14. Many of the characters feel the Lord’s presence in their lives and try to live according to his will. How have you felt the Lord’s guiding hand?

15. Throughout the novel, Clayton and Vanessa quote scripture from the Psalms. Was there a particular verse that spoke to you? Why?