Debbie M. (Tafwin) reviewed on 2/26/2006

19th century Wyoming...Jeanne OShea is trapped living with her abusive stepfather after her mothers death. In the harsh environment of a coal mining town, no one seems willing to help, not even the sheriff.

For Jeanne and her younger brother, running away presents the only solution to harsh beatings and inappropriate sexual interest, but the man proves difficult to escape. Under the threat of coming winter, Jeanne finally manages to leave, injured from the latest beating but too desperate to wait for better circumstances.

After they follow the railroad until the cold threatens their lives, Jeanne and her brother Timmy seek shelter in an empty sheepherders wagon. When he comes to check on his camp, Leon Arregi, a Basque sheep rancher, finds them.

Although strongly attracted to Jeanne, Leon holds back because he's sent passage money to a Basque woman and promised to marry her when she comes to America. The exact opposite of Jeannes stepfather, Leon provides a safe and loving environment for her and her brother, but enforced closeness and their mutual attraction immediately present difficulties and challenge their reasons for restraint.

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