Having known nothing but heartbreak and betrayal in Culpepper Cove, Callie Smith seeks refuge at The Red Petticoat Saloon. To the young widow's utter shock, on her first night working upstairs, former love interest Pastor Lawrence Black bids an ungodly amount of money for an evening with her. After his dominant lovemaking leaves her breathless, he stuns her with a marriage proposal. But how can a soiled dove become a pastor's wife? Despite her stubborn refusal, he insists she's become his wife-in-truth and returns night after night, not allowing any other men to touch her.
As time goes on, Callie finds it increasingly difficult to ignore her growing feelings for the stern but kind, handsome widower who issues firm commands in the bedroom and doesn't hesitate to spank her bare bottom when she disobeys. Truth is, she'd be proud to call Lawrence her husband, but surely her reputation would hinder his calling to become the town pastor. Will he succeed in convincing Callie she's meant to be his wife?
