Julia McNeal has a doctorate, a loving family, and an ex-boyfriend who wants to kill her. Mallen Saltaire, the reluctant King of Sandovia, is a friend of her brother's and fiercely protective. Upon hearing of Julia's troubles, he arrives to remove her from danger. A year ago she entered an abusive relationship while he feels he failed to protect a woman he loved. Can they help each other heal and learn to love and trust again? And stay alive?