To get through the harsh New England winter, Julie Lancaster has been waiting tables while she waits to land her dream job teaching high school history. But then her employment agency calls with an even dreamier offer: a well-paid tutoring position in beautiful, balmy Hawaii!

The moment she steps off the plane, Julie is bewitched by the island's intoxicating atmosphere and the lingering scent of exotic blossoms. Debbie, her sixteen-year-old tutee, is a sweetheart, and everyone on the estate makes her feel welcome--except Ruel Chandler, Debbie's imperious, older half-brother. At the beach, Julie meets Frank, a handsome surfer who's obviously smitten. But as the Kona winds blow, Julie realizes there's something about Ruel that makes Frank seem like a mere boy by comparison.