As the Civil War looms, Kal Mann faces the loss of Rebecca, his first and only love, as her family moves west to avoid the conflict. Kal and Rebecca are only fifteen, too young to marry. When the conflict commonly known as "The Boys War" starts, Kal is determined to make a difference and joins the Union Army. After two years of bloody fighting, he is captured and sent to the infamous Libby Prison. For almost another two years, every day is a struggle for survival, when friend or foe will kill you for a crust of bread. When he finally escapes, he is an embittered and hardened man. Deserting, Kal begins his journey west to find Rebecca. With only thoughts of her, he soon faces a hell no man should ever have to face. The trail has unforeseen consequences when Kal rescues a five year old girl, the only survivor of an Indian raid. Precocious little Katie soon steals and softens his heart. When little Katie is taken unexpectedly, hell is unleashed. Nobody kidnaps his little Katie and lives. NOBODY It is said the hardest steel is forged in the hottest fire, and destiny will test Kal's metal.