Being a veterinarian in the late 1800's is difficult enough, but for Jillian Matthews it's impossible. Not allowed in the vet schools, she trained at her father's side until she had the skills needed to move west. Jillian accepts an advertisement for a position in Montana, using only her initials which happen to be same as her father's. Convinced that in the untamed west, her skills will be valued and appreciated, regardless of her gender, she's quickly proved wrong.

Wade Parker is sure the pretty redhead claiming to be the vet he sent for is one of his ranch hands' practical jokes but the fiery woman very quickly puts him in his place. His impression, however, turns south when the animal she operated on later dies. With a ranch on the verge of bankruptcy, losing an animal was the last thing he could afford and he can't help thinking the old vet, the male doctor, wouldn't have let his animal die.

With Wade's initial reaction guiding them, the town is quick to want Jillian out. But the more Wade gets to know Jillian, the more he sees her grit and compassion, the harder he falls for her. When Wade realizes he was too hasty in his judgment and urges the town to give Jillian another chance, he makes more than few enemies. Enemies that would do almost anything to get her out, and to make sure Wade doesn't take her side again.

Soon threats turn to violence and both Wade and Jillian must make a stand. The problem is, at what cost?