Intelligent, educated, and religious, Lavinia Jefferson approaches her thirtieth birthday feeling unfulfilled and frustrated. When her pastor encourages her to put her feelings on paper, the result of her writing finds its way into the hands of a twice-widowed rancher, John Barkley Dawson, in a far-off and unsettled part of the country. Lavinia leaves her secure and civilized life to experience love and adventure with J. B. in the daily challenges of marriage and motherhood. She learns firsthand about the vagaries of weather, hard work, outlaws (and in-laws), Indians, good friends, and bad enemies. She watches the West grow, enjoys innovative inventions, and experiences the joys and sorrows that go hand in hand with births and deaths. Whether it's a sheep drive to Alaska, a land dispute that ends in the Supreme Court, or big business generated by the discovery of extensive coal deposits, Lavinia and J. B. create many happy memories together. Her life touches upon many events and people whose names are well-known today, but Lavinia's focus throughout her life is on family, education, and faith. Most importantly, she's content knowing that she made the right decision in joining that man who whisked her away to a new, exciting life.