Bookstore owner Meryn O'Reilly and Army Captain Jesse Christensen are on opposite sides of a battle. When a radical Christian group claims responsibility for a series of terrorist attacks, Jesse and his platoon are sent to Meryn's city to keep an eye on the Christians. Jesse watches out for Meryn, a believer, when possible, although she wants nothing to do with him. His worst fears are realized when she commits a crime and faces consequences he cannot protect her from. With time running out, Jesse works feverishly to convince the authorities to show leniency--and to convince Meryn that love can overcome any barrier that lies between them.