This is a historical fiction novel occurring in 1916 / 1917 in Val Verde County, TX. During this time Pancho Villa was causing great fear along the southern borderlands. The ranchers were often left to defend themselves as best they could.

Twenty-two year old Ester Hammon of Dallas was weary of her family's relentless search for her a suitable husband. When she saw and advertisement seeking a teacher for Twelve Mile School she jumped at the opportunity, and began the new job just after Labor Day.

When she stepped off the train in the small, dusty town of Del Rio she felt as though she had stepped back in time twenty years.

To her amazement she had to learn to shoot in the event of a raid by Pancho Villa or other outlaws that frequented the area.

With two love interests: One with a dark secret, one in constant danger of raids by Villa and his men; who won the battle? Who won her heart?