On their way to a Christmas party-the event of the year for
Topeka society-Jason and Lillie Philips are in a carriage accident.
When she regains consciousness two weeks later, Lillie has lost
both her husbland and the baby they had been expecting. She's also
lost any faith in God or desire to live. Months pass, and Lillie's
life resolves around solitude and chocolates. Concerned when her
depression only increases over time, Lillie's parents send her to
New Mexico for a visit with her childhood friend, Maggie Intissar
Lucas. During the train trip out, Lillie is thrown in the path of
Daniel Monroe, an arrogant young doctor who takes perverse delight
in tormenting her about her eating habits and increasing size.
Lillie is relieved when her train trip ends and she is rid of her
tormenter. But on arrival at Lucas ranch, she discovers that Dr
Daniel Monroe is also a house guest. As Lillie and Maggie renew
their friendship, Lillie begins to find healing for her wounded
heart. She also comes to understand the pain behind Daniel's
brusque manner. But will she risk loving and trusting a man
again?