stepping into his domain, immersing herself in his world, had taken her off guard. How had this man so intrigued her, fully claimed her curiosity and caused her to cast aside all reason and say and do such absurd things in his presence?"

A woman as untamed as the islands themselves. A guarded doctor who can heal every hurt but his own. Will their differences bind or break them? 

For Georgina Wright, traveling to the Hawaiian Islands in 1873 with famed explorer Isabella Bird is the adventure of a lifetime. After years under her older brother’s protection, Georgina is eager for adventure, independence, and the chance to prove she is capable of more than anyone believes.

But her long-awaited journey comes with an unexpected condition: the presence of Dr. Joseph Livingston Jr., a guarded physician whose cool reserve is as frustrating as it is intriguing.

Certain his peculiarities make him a burden, Joseph believes keeping others at arm’s length is the safest kindness he can offer. Georgina’s bold spirit, however, unsettles every wall he has built.

Across stormy seas, volcanic heights, and hidden island dangers, Georgina must learn the cost of acting before thinking, while Joseph must face the deeper danger of never acting at all. When hurtful words and dangerous choices threaten to divide them, the pair must decide whether two imperfect hearts can risk being truly known.

Now available for preorder in ebook format.

Releasing September 8, 2026, with Scrivenings Press!