It's frosty December in Scotland and six Cynster families come together at snowbound Casphairn Manor to celebrate the season--and where Cynsters gather, love is never far behind.

The festive occasion brings together Daniel Crosbie, tutor to Lucifer Cynster's sons, and Claire Meadows, widow and governess to Gabriel Cynster's daughter. Daniel and Claire have met before and the embers of an unexpected passion smolder between them.

However, Claire, once bitten, twice shy, believes a second marriage is not in her stars. Yet Daniel is determined. Assisted by a bevy of Cynsters--innate matchmakers every one--Daniel strives to persuade Claire that trusting him with her hand and her heart is her right path to happiness.

Claire is increasingly drawn to Daniel despite her misgivings. Then catastrophe strikes, and by winter's light, she learns that love--true love--is worth any risk, any price.