Tess Gregory's brilliant career as a research scientist hides her longings for a husband and child. Though deaf, she is a free spirit--a woman full of life and love. She is struck down all too soon, but for Tess, a new life begins at death, in post-Civil War America. She is now Amarylis Rafferty, wife and mother of three--and she can hear. Shocked and disoriented by her new surroundings, she is drawn into the heartache burdening the family, especially her husband, Jack.

Pioneer living is rough for a woman used to modern conveniences, but Tess flourishes, bringing happiness and hope to her daughters and her son--to all except her husband, a man haunted by angry, violent voices that give no rest to his bitter soul. A man who fears himself capable of anything.

Through it all Tess's faith remains unshakable. Sheer determination will drive her as their hearts become entwined in a fierce struggle that can be tamed only by love itself. . . .