Joy Winslow is convinced her inheritance has been stolen by the greedy couple who took her and her brother, Travis, in after their parents' death. When Travis leaves to find work, Joy endures without him for only a short time before she runs away.

Joy meets Chase Gallagher when he rescues her from a dangerous situation. Chase helps her find work in a circus, performing with the big cats. Torn by family loyalty, love for Chase, and a desire for revenge, Joy searches desperately for a path that will bring peace.