Thus, Juliet wonders if Noble is trying to use her to find out who the traitor was. West sets her romance against the backdrop of the Apache wars. She draws a telling picture of the hardships of army life on the southwestern frontier and the dangers of Indian fighting. She also describes the tensions between the southerners and the northerners, as the two groups have to live together and fight a common enemy. That someone is attacking the colonel adds to the tension and suspense.
Characterization is West's strong point.
Noble is a man who is wrestling with the decisions he has to make. Juliet is a strong and attractive heroine. She is confused by her feelings for a man she started out not trusting and still wonders about. But she is also willing to take the initiative in exploring these new and strong feelings that draw her to Noble. And she is brave and resourceful when danger appears.