A young girl is caught between two warring families and a forbidden love. Fanny McCoy, a member of the prominent Kentucky family, witnesses the escalating Hatfield-McCoy feud in the 1880s. Her world is further complicated when her sister, Roseanna, falls in love with a Hatfield, a union that defies the deep-seated animosity between the families. Fanny must navigate the treacherous landscape of family loyalty, societal expectations, and the dangerous consequences of a love that crosses enemy lines.

The novel is recognized for its compelling portrayal of a notorious historical feud through the eyes of a young protagonist. Readers often highlight the way Ann Rinaldi brings the intense family conflict and the forbidden romance to life, making the historical events accessible and emotionally resonant. The narrative's focus on Fanny's perspective allows for an intimate look at the personal toll of such widespread animosity. The book is frequently cited as an engaging historical fiction piece for young adults, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and the devastating consequences of hatred.