As a runaway, Josie Edwards has no idea of the dangers and hardships that lurk within the black swamp regions of Ohio when she runs away from home after the death of her mother. It doesnat take long for trouble to find her and soon sheas running from more than just home. When she meets a handsome town sheriff, she quickly realizes that even he may not be able to save her from the clutches of evil within the muddy trenches of the region. The worst of it is that the new friends and even enemies sheas made just may pay the price with her as an outlaw chases her down and seeks revenge, ravishing everything he touches. She finds that she has a lot of forgiving to do and a lot to be thankful for, and hopes in the end that others can do the same.