As the sheriff of Pinyon Falls, Texas, Reece Felps has always thought lawmen should never marry because of the danger and uncertainty that comes with the job, but as he enters middle age, he begins to reconsider. A friend convinces him that he should write to the matchmaker in Chicago with whom so many others in the area have found success.

Adrianne Clark and her brother live an even more meager existence in Chicago since she lost her job at the flour mill. When she sees a brutal murder and they learn the mob is involved, they decide she needs to leave the city, so she goes to her best friend’s aunt, who is a matchmaker.

Matt Griffin’s new job as deputy sheriff suits him just fine, and he begins to notice Ginny Harris for the first time. Ginny and he went to school together, but she’s younger than him. Then the new schoolteacher comes to town, and she’s different: sophisticated and refined. No one else seems to appreciate her, but she makes him feel special. However, when they all become caught up with someone trying to harm Adrianne, things get complicated, and Matt starts to realize things might not be as he thought they were.

Ginny Harris enjoys running the dress shop, and she’s thrilled when Matt Griffin starts showing an interest in her. She’s been aware of him for years. Yet, when the new schoolteacher comes to Pinyon Falls, he turns his attention to her, and it hurts. Everyone keeps telling her to be patient and not lose heart, but she’s already lost her heart to the man.