Hugh Lancaster arrives in New Orleans Territory to investigate some shady dealings in his stepfather's business. He is greeted with distrust by the Creole population, his stepfather's business partners, and Micaela, the lovely niece of the major shareholder in the company. But Micaela's revulsion soon turns to fascination, and then to a passion she cannot hide. Confronted by underhanded scheming and deadly threats, Hugh and Micaela must join forces to outwit their enemies--and soon find themselves falling hopelessly in love.