Kidnapping. Evil. Redemption. When two young girls go missing, Dr. Emma Reichs, a child psychologist who worked with the two teens, turns to Brody Taylor, an ex-Green Beret, who founded the Pals Center, a safe haven for kids, to help her find the girls. Brody along with his retired military canine, Charlie, is determined to find the people behind the kidnapping of young people in his community. In the midst of the search for Piper and Maria, more children are taken. Brody and Emma realize they’re fighting against a ticking bomb to find the teens before they disappear for good. Their partnership brings them closer and awakens feelings for each other, but can they stay alive long enough to end the nightmare for the kids and still have a future together?

Dedicated to her high schoolers with special needs, Sadie Spencer was determined to get help for her work program even if it meant she had to be creative to find a way to talk to Andrew Knight who owned a large company that would be a perfect place for her students. She bid on him in a bachelor auction and won a date with him. She was excited she would have a chance to convince him to hire one of her students. But she soon realized that God had His reasons for bringing them together. Experience had taught Andrew that he didn't need anyone in his life, including God. Until Sadie began to show the successful businessman how much he had to offer her students. But though the walls he'd built around his heart were slowly crumbling, would he ever find the courage to make peace with God so that he could be not only Sadie's hero . . . but her husband?

Second Chances. Stalking. Murder.Dr. Sarah Collins, a counselor and single mom, is shaken to her core when one of her patients is murdered. While caring for the victim's young daughter and the crime's sole witness, Candy, Sarah's normally calm life becomes a nightmare from which she can't escape. Her terror further escalates when it becomes clear that whoever stabbed Candy's mother is still searching for something.Detective Nick Davidson is assigned to the case. When his best friend as a child was kidnapped and never found, Nick was determined to become a police officer. His job comes first in his life, but the mysterious murder challenges him. Even worse, his growing attachment to Sarah and the girls threaten to unravel the core of who he's always believed himself to be. How can he be a husband, father, and cop? Especially when if he lowers his guard to love, all of their lives may be lost.

During the tax season, CPA and single father, Ian Ferguson, needs a temporary tutor for his young daughter, Jana, who has struggled with school since her mother shockingly left them to marry another man. Alexa Michaels comes highly recommended, but Ian doubts the younger woman's capabilities who is his polar opposite. He prefers structure and certainly no surprises. Alexa goes with the flow, embracing unexpected changes. But when Jana thrives under Alexa’s unique tutelage, Ian has no choice but to keep Alexa at least through the end of the hectic tax season. As much as Ian hates surprises, his true struggle has only just begun when he finds himself falling for Alexa. Can Ian and Alexa put their rocky pasts behind to give themselves and Jana the family and stable future they need?

Adventure. Betrayal. Murder.Dead? Kate Collier refuses to believe her brother and last remaining family member died in the Brazilian rainforest. Determined to find the missing biochemist, she launches an expedition to find him.A.C. Slader's past is as dark and turbulent as the Amazon. Consumed with his own problems, when Kate tries hiring him to find her no-doubt deceased brother, he turns her down cold. The last thing he needs is to fight his way through an impassable jungle for a woman who wouldn't know a stick from a snake. Only when he narrowly rescues her from an attack before she's even left the relative safety of the town does he realize that without his help, she'll get herself killed.Together, they begin a perilous journey that will test the limits of their faith and each other...

Troubled teen. Second Chances. Redemption. Single mom, Maggie Sommerfield, is struggling with her preteen son who is angry with all that has happened in Hope, Mississippi and the hurricane that upended his life. Cody Weston, a crisis counselor, becomes a part of Maggie’s and her son’s lives. In Cody’s efforts to help Maggie with her son, a relationship blossoms between them, but his secrets that he’s kept locked away come to the foreground. Can the two open their guarded hearts and give each other a chance to find love again?

Stalker. Arson. Murder.When a stalker ruthlessly targets people she loves, a woman flees her old life, creating a new identity as Serena Remington. Her plan to escape the madman and lead him away from family and friends worked for three years. Now he's back. With nowhere else to run, her only choice is war. Quinn Taylor, her neighbor and a firefighter with expertise in arson, comes to her aid, but will it be in time to save her?

Murder. On the Run. Second Chances. Luke Michaels' relaxing camping trip ends when he witnesses a woman being thrown from a bridge. He dives into the river to save her, shocked to find her wrapped in chains. As a canine search and rescue volunteer, Luke has assisted many victims, but never a beauty whose defeated gaze ignites his primal urge to protect. When Megan Witherspoon’s killers make it clear they won't stop, Luke fights to save her, but can he keep her alive long enough to find out who is after her?

Tess Morgan loves being a pediatric nurse and helping the children under her care. She’d always wanted a large family, but that dream was shattered when her fiancé was murdered while volunteering in South America. Peter “Mac” MacPherson, a former football superstar, had dealt with his own tragedies—the deaths of his father followed by his wife while she was giving birth to their daughter. His faith sustained him through his grief, but can he help Tess believe again in God and finally find a family—with him?

With a stalker on the loose, will this couple ever reach their final destination? Don't miss this exciting romantic suspense from beloved author Margaret Daley!Kit Sinclair is desperate to enter Desolation Canyon. But tribal chief of police Hawke Lonechief insists it's too dangerous to go it alone. And he should know. He lost his wife to the treacherous canyons years ago. He tries to convince her the ancient ruins aren't worth her life. But Kit is certain hiking there will help put her traumatic past behind her once and for all. He agrees to lead her through—on his terms. But someone is following their every move. Watching them grow closer to danger with every step. Will they make it out of the canyon alive?Originally published in 2008.

Christmas bells ring with danger in these suspenseful holiday storiesMerry Mayhem by Margaret DaleyWhen single mom Annie Coleman unexpectedly arrives in Christmas, Oklahoma, police chief Caleb Jackson suspects she's hiding secrets. He'll be watching her closely. And his protection is just what Annie and her daughter need, as danger has followed them to their new home.Yule Die by Debby GiustiIt's hardly a happy holiday for medical researcher Callie Evans...until she discovers her ailing patient is her long-lost brother. And he's being watched by undercover police officer Joe Petrecelli. When the trio is abducted by a cadre of bad guys, Joe and Callie will have to fight to keep her brother--and themselves--alive.

To Protect A Child Witness… Lone Star Justice Must Prevail.With a killer at large, Texas Ranger Taylor Blackburn must safeguard little Ben Markham–the sole survivor of a mass shooting. But allowing Ben and his beautiful aunt, Sierra Walker, into his life is riskier than Taylor imagined. While he can distract Ben with Christmas planning, Taylor can’t ignore how Sierra makes him feel. The only thing harder than protecting them is guarding his own heart… 

Stalker. Arson. Murder. When a stalker ruthlessly targets people she loves, a woman flees her old life, creating a new identity as Serena Remington. Her plan to escape the madman and lead him away from family and friends worked for three years. Now he's back. With nowhere else to run, her only choice is war. Quinn Taylor, her neighbor and a firefighter with expertise in arson, comes to her aid, but will it be in time to save her?

A high-profile trial turns lethal...The next exciting Lone Star Justice novelPresiding over the trial of a powerful drug cartel member, Judge Aubrey Madison finds her life threatened, and Texas Ranger Sean McNair isn't taking any chances. Protecting the widow and her twins comes naturally to Sean—maybe too naturally for a guy who's convinced he shouldn't have a family. But he can't help wishing for a future with Aubrey...if he can keep her alive.

To protect a child witness Lone Star Justice must prevailWith a killer at large, Texas Ranger Taylor Blackburn must safeguard little Ben Markham—the sole survivor of a mass shooting. But allowing Ben and his beautiful aunt, Sierra Walker, into his life is riskier than Taylor imagined. While he can distract Ben with Christmas planning, Taylor can't ignore how Sierra makes him feel. The only thing harder than protecting them is guarding his own heart...

Two wounded people, too afraid to trust... Laura Williams first encounters high school principal, Peter Stone, when he suspends her son for fighting. New to town, this widow and mother of four struggles to hold her family together. Peter is drawn to Laura and wants to help her and her son, who are hurting, but he's no stranger to pain. It's a daily struggle to overcome his own past. Will these wounded souls find love again, or will rocky pasts destroy all hope for a happy future?

Betrayal. Murder. Redemption.After years searching for her birth mother, an anonymous tip leads Maggie Ridgeway to her long-lost family. Needing answers to lifelong questions, without revealing her true identity, Maggie moves into the apartment across from her mom.Kane McDowell, a disabled veteran, who owns the apartment building and lives there, has struggled to deal with his injury. He is protective of the people he cares about and that includes Maggie's birth mother, her husband and two children.As Maggie and Kane's relationship grows, she is the victim of several burglaries, possibly tied to a man who was murdered in her apartment before she lived there. Kane comes to her rescue and vows to protect her. But will stunning revelations tear Maggie and Kane apart?

Single mom, Lisa Morgan, struggles to raise her emotionally troubled twelve-year-old son, Andy. Police officer, David Russell, volunteers as the coach for Andy's basketball team. While helping the boy with his anger and hurt, Lisa and David each wrestle their own emotional issues. Their broken pasts keep them apart, but during the holiday season, they learn the true meaning of Christmas. Can Lisa and David forgive and forget yesterday's pain in order to share a future as the family they've both always wanted?

Revenge. Sabotage. Second Chances. Widow Rebecca Howard runs a successful store chain that is being targeted during the holiday season. Detective Alex Kincaid, best friends with Rebecca's twin brother, is investigating the hacking of the store's computer system. When the attacks become personal, Alex must find the assailant before Rebecca, the woman he's falling in love with, is murdered.

When Dr. Max Connors discovers he has a thirteen-year-old daughter who was adopted by a family years ago, he feels betrayed. He locates where his daughter lives and decides to move to Tallgrass, Oklahoma, although he doesn’t know if he will reveal who he is. Rachel Howard, the widowed mother, is struggling with raising her daughter, Taylor, who has problems that interfere with her schooling. As neighbors, Max becomes involved with Rachel and Taylor and ends up helping them when he can. As Christmas nears and his feelings toward Rachel grow, Max must make a decision. Will Max’s secret destroy his dream to have a family?

Kim Walters and Zane Davidson were high school sweethearts until Kim’s father interfered with their teenage relationship, making it clear his daughter wasn’t good enough for Zane who was from a poor family. Fifteen years later, a hurricane strikes their hometown. Zane, a successful contractor, has returned to Hope and agrees to help Kim rebuild the family’s antebellum home. As they work together to restore the beautiful house, can Kim and Zane put their past behind them and find love again?

Murder. On the Run. Second Chances.Luke Michaels' relaxing camping trip ends when he witnesses a woman being thrown from a bridge. He dives into the river to save her, shocked to find her wrapped in chains. As a canine search and rescue volunteer, Luke has assisted many victims, but never a beauty whose defeated gaze ignites his primal urge to protect. When Megan Witherspoon's killers make it clear they won't stop, Luke fights to save her, but can he keep her alive long enough to find out who is after her?

The Cowboy's Unexpected Family Awakening from a months-long coma, Ben Stillwater is met with a big surprise: the footloose bachelor cowboy is a father! Ben tries to adjust to life with baby Cody and decides what the child really needs is a mom. Sheriff Lucy Benson does not seem a likely candidate—she already has her hands full closing in on the thieves who have been targeting the ranches of Little Horn, Texas. But the closer Ben gets to Lucy—and the closer they get to solving the mystery—the more it seems the free-spirited rancher and the determined officer could be the perfect match.

From Cowboy to Father Figure Rancher Nick McGarrett wants to help orphaned ten-year-old Corey Phillips, the brother of his late comrade. But he's not fit to be a father—not with his troubled past. Thankfully, the child finds a home at the Lone Star Cowboy League Boys Ranch, where Nick volunteers. When wealthy newcomer Darcy Hill discovers she's Corey's cousin, she hopes to eventually take him in. Nick and Darcy couldn't be more opposite—or more drawn to each other. But for Darcy, raising Corey in her hometown means leaving Texas...and Nick. It'll take a special little boy to show these two grown-ups that the key to forging a new future is being together.

All bodyguard Tess Miller wants is a vacation. But when a wounded stranger stumbles into her isolated cabin in the Arizona mountains, Tess becomes his lifeline. When Shane Burkhart opens his eyes, all he can focus on is his guardian angel leaning over him. And in the days to come he will need a guardian angel while being hunted by someone who wants him dead.

The day Sadie Thompson finds one of her high school students asleep in her class and can't wake her up is the day she realizes

A NEW HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS?He came to Sweetwater to repay a debt. Chance Taylor didn't expect to have feelings for his new landlady, Tanya Bolton. He can see newly widowed Tanya works hard to put the pieces of her world back together, caring for her wheelchair-bound daughter and taking a job at the local bank.Chance's arrival interrupts Tanya's routine...and brings unexpected happiness to her life. But the secret obligation he struggles with means Chance could lose Tanya—and his chance for a fresh start—foreverOriginally published in 2006

Secrets. Murder. Reunion.Sarah St. John, an FBI profiler, finally returns home after fifteen years for her niece's wedding. But in less than a day, Sarah's world is shattered when her niece is kidnapped the night before her vows. Sarah can't shake the feeling her own highly personal reason for leaving Hunter Davis at the altar is now playing out again in this nightmarish scene with her niece.Sarah has to work with Detective Hunter Davis, her ex-fiancé, to find her niece before the young woman becomes the latest victim of a serial killer. Sarah must relive part of her past in order to assure there is a future for her niece and herself. Can Sarah and Hunter overcome their painful past and work together before the killer strikes again?

"Stop me."She was taunted by a killer.Margaret Daley's thrilling Lone Star Justice series continues, this time pitting radio therapist Dr. Caitlyn Rhodes against a methodical murderer. First, her patients are found dead, then the mocking phone calls start. The evidence is pointing Texas Ranger Ian Pierce to one conclusion: he must protect Caitlyn from becoming this vicious killer's next victim...before he loses the woman he once loved—for good.

Love Inspired Suspense brings you three new titles at a great value, available now! Enjoy these suspenseful romances of danger and faith. THE PROTECTOR'S MISSIONAlaskan Search and Rescueby Margaret DaleyAs an Anchorage K-9 police unit sergeant, Jesse Hunt regularly puts his life at risk to rescue others. But he'll pull out all the stops when a bomber threatens his hometown—and his former high school sweetheart... PLAIN THREATSby Alison StoneEver since her husband's crimes left Rebecca Fisher an Amish widow, she's been targeted. To discover whether her stepson knows more than he lets on, Rebecca turns to his professor for answers. But the questions put them both in danger... EASY PREYby Lisa PhillipsUS marshal Jonah Rivers has never forgotten his brother's widow, Elise Tanner. When he finds her in a dire situation—with a nephew he didn't know...

TO: AL_CRANE@CSSENTINEL.ORG FROM: COLLEEN_MONTGOMERY@CSSENTINEL.ORG Boss, I'm finishing up all my articles before Alessandro and I get married later this month. He's thrilled his uncle Max is out of the hospital and can attend the wedding. If only Baltasar Escalante weren't still out there -- Alessandro believes he's plotting against the Vance and Montgomery families. My cousin Quinn has been busy restoring detective Becca Hilliard's house, but he's also on alert following the explosion at the hospital. I'd be thrilled if Quinn and Becca became a couple but I wonder how safe it is to fall in love when there's a madman on the loose....

Til Death Do Us PartWhen her DEA agent husband's plane went down, Zoey Witherspoon thought her life was over. But with two kids to care for, and another on the way, she moved back home to Sweetwater to be closer to friends and family. Two years later, her world is turned upside down: her husband is alive! Amnesia-stricken Dane isn't exactly the same person he'd been, but neither is Zoey. She refuses to return to the fractured marriage they'd shared, yet moving forward is a scary prospect. Will a second chance at happiness make all her dreams come true?Originally published in 2006

"Do You Want My Help Or Not?"Kim Walters wants Zane Davidson's help all right. Her family is struggling to rebuild their home after a hurricane, and Zane is a successful contractor. But the fifteen years that have passed since they were high school sweethearts aren't about to magically melt away. Nothing can erase Mr. Walters's clear message--Zane wasn't good enough for his daughter. But now the Walters fortune is gone, and the town is reeling from the recent natural disaster. Can Kim and Zane find the faith to believe that some things work better the second time around?

Love Inspired Suspense brings you three new titles at a great value, available now! Enjoy these suspenseful romances of danger and faith. STANDOFF AT CHRISTMAS Alaskan Search and Rescue by Margaret Daley Injured K-9 police officer Jake Nichols comes home for Christmas to heal, but when his childhood friend Rachel Hart gets caught up in a drug-smuggling ring, he vows to protect her at any cost. YULETIDE FUGITIVE THREAT Bounty Hunters by Sandra Robbins When the man who killed Mia Fletcher's husband starts terrorizing her, she turns to her ex-boyfriend, bounty hunter Lucas Knight, for help in the days leading up to Christmas. SILENT NIGHT PURSUIT Roads to Danger by Katy Lee Lacey Phillips travels north at Christmas to find Captain Wade Spencer, who she hopes can give her answers about her brother's death. But someone will stop at nothing to keep the truth hidden.

He understands angry teen boys--he'd been one himselfAs the local high school principal, Peter Stone knows troubled student Sean Williams needs someone to talk to, and Peter wants to help. Then he meets the boy's beautiful mother and he starts yearning to be the one she can rely on.Laura, a widow caring for her four children and ailing aunt, has no time for romance. She's determined to start over in Cimarron City, and she doesn't need Peter to do it. Yet somehow, despite her protests, Laura finds herself and her brood frequent visitors to Peter's ranch, a refuge for abandoned animals. As Peter tries to show Laura she can still be strong and accept his help, he hopes she'll accept his love...and unite them all as a family.

Homeschooling his daughter is new to devoted single father Ian Ferguson. To ensure his child gets a good education, the busy CPA hires a temporary tutor. Twenty-three-year-old college student Alexa Michaels is too young--and too pretty--to be right for the job. Yet his daughter is coming out of her shell and learning. Still, Ian is traditional, and sweet Alexa--who graduated from the school of hard knocks--is challenging some of his old-school ways. Can this dad learn some valuable lessons about love, family and faith from the least likely teacher?

IDENTITY UNKNOWN A baby's frantic cries lead Texas Ranger Drake Jackson to an injured woman in Big Bend Park, the infant by her side. But "Kay" has no idea who she is or what happened. All she seems sure of is that she's in terrible danger. When someone comes after her—determined to snatch the child—Drake takes her and little Kaleb to his family's ranch to protect them. But with the attackers circling closer as Christmas approaches, the guarded ranger knows they won't be safe there for long. Vowing to uncover her identity and catch her attacker, Drake plans to give mother and child the holiday they deserve...safe by his side forever.

Allie Martin, a widow, has a secret protector who manipulates her life without anyone knowing until...When Remy Broussard, an injured police officer, returns to Port David, Louisiana to visit before his medical leave is over, he discovers his childhood friend, Allie Martin, is being stalked. As Remy protects Allie and tries to find her stalker, they realize their feelings go beyond friendship.When the stalker is found, they begin to explore the deeper feelings they have for each other, only to have a more sinister threat come between them. Will Allie be able to save Remy before he dies at the hand of a maniac?

Tory Caldwell witnesses a hit-and-run, but when the dead victim disappears from the scene, police doubt a crime has been committed. Tory is threatened when she keeps insisting she saw a man killed and the only one who believes her is her neighbor, Jordan Steele. Together, can they solve the mystery of the disappearing body and stay alive?

Penniless, pregnant, and newly widowed immigrant Rachel Gordon doesn't believe her situation could get any worse... until she meets her new neighbors. Shortly after the War of 1812, Rachel and her husband set out from England for a plantation in South Carolina, which he had purchased sight unseen. However, while en route, Tom Gordon fell overboard and drowned, leaving Rachel, frightened and alone, to make a home for her and her newborn. Can a battle-scarred American physician who comes to her rescue also heal her wounded heart?

As the mother of a beautiful daughter and the wife of a wealthy entrepreneur, Melora Hudson seemed happy. No one knew about the secrets hidden behind closed doors—secrets Melora was forced to keep. Now, two years after her husband's disappearance, the truth may be exposed. His body has been found, and everyone has questions. Texas Ranger Daniel Boone Riley comes to find answers, and stays to protect the woman and child who win his heart. But the terror of Melora's past isn't over. Her late husband's old "associates" want her to carry his secrets to her grave.

Stronger For Her Son Years ago, the death of her soldier fiance left pregnant Maggie Sommerfield devastated and angry. Now she needs help with her troubled preteen son. Enter counselor Cody Weston, who is in town to help the community deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Naomi. He also happens to bring just the comfort and support Maggie needs. But it turns out he has a few secrets of his own. Will Cody and Maggie be able to open their guarded hearts to find a new beginning?

A romp through a snake-infested, vine-twisted terrain isn't exactly Ellie Winter's idea of fun. She hates animals that slither and the vines wreak havoc on her body. The one redeeming feature of her latest adventure--and she must admit she hasn't been on one quite so dangerous--is Slade Calvert. He makes her heart beat faster. He makes her forget that she doesn't trust men easily.

KEEPING BABY SAFE Saved by the Lawman by Margaret Daley As an unknown assailant attempts to kidnap family-court judge Kate Forster's infant son, police officer Chase Walker thwarts the attack—and vows to keep the pair safe. But who will protect the ex-marine's heart when the widowed mother and her little boy make him long for a permanent spot in their family? Saved by the SEAL by Susan Sleeman The tragedy that killed Bree Hatfield's best friends—and left her with custody of their young daughter—has been ruled an accident. But Bree knows it was murder. Scared and alone, she turns to her ex-boyfriend, navy SEAL Clint Reed, who'll risk everything to protect baby Ella and the woman he never stopped loving.

Bodyguard Ellie St. James has one objective: protect her client...without letting her know. Pretending to be Rachel "Winnie" Winfield's assistant lets Ellie stay close, but there's an unexpected complication--Colt Winfield. Winnie's grandson wasn't in on the plans, and the suspicious marine biologist isn't easy to fool. When the truth comes out, so do more threats to Winnie's life. Trapped on a Colorado mountain, Ellie and Colt must trust each other to guard Winnie and find the stalker. Before this Christmas becomes their last.

Second Chance Family Annie Knight has her work cut out for her as the McGregor family's newest nanny. Dr. Ian McGregor means well, but the distracted single dad's lost touch with his four kids. The new nanny brings much-needed calm to the chaos, including finding a service dog that could be a real lifesaver. And soon the good doctor's making Annie's heart respond in ways it hasn't for years. But Annie's cheery demeanor hides a heart-wrenching secret that's as much a part of her as her carefully hidden scars. Annie doesn't think she deserves happiness—but Ian and his kids will show the caretaker that with the love of family, everything's possible.

When Hurricane Naomi tears through a small Mississippi town, a daring rescue unites two heroes. Nurse Kathleen Hart is a single mom racked by guilt over her husband's death. Firefighter Gideon O'Brien—orphaned as a young boy—has lost too many people he cared for. To rise above the storm's devastation, Gideon helps Kathleen and her sons rebuild their home. As Christmas approaches, they discover that even the strongest of storms can't destroy a romance built on the foundation of faith.

From Bachelor to Father Firefighter Liam McGregory is used to staring down five-alarm fires—but becoming a father to his two little nieces has him sending out a call for help. When the girls return a lost pup to its beautiful owner, Liam thinks widow Sarah Blackburn is just the person he needs—or who the children need. He's promised to never marry again. Sarah takes his deal: she'll watch his kids and he'll watch her menagerie of pets—but the new father is off-limits. But two determined little matchmakers can be hard to resist when they need a mom to make one big happy family...

Love Gone to the Dogs, Book 1 Second Chances Series, by Margaret Daley, sweet contemporary romantic comedic Single mom, Leah Taylor, has her hands full with a grandfather, an inventor, who lives a bit risky when it comes to his job and two sons, one a rambunctious genius. But it is her free spirited beagle who gets her into trouble with her new neighbor, Dr. Shane O'Grady, when her dog makes a move on his champion bichon that he wants to breed. Leah and Shane clash over their dogs that clearly like each other. Leah is determined to ignore her neighbor, but when her youngest son who tries to defy gravity and fly ends up hurt, it is her neighbor, the doctor, who takes care of her son. Can Leah and Shane find love or has love gone to the dogs? Excerpt from Love Gone to the Dogs When Leah Taylor heard the pounding on her front door at seven o'clock in the morning, she jumped, nearly sloshing her coffee all over her hand. Did burglars now announce themselves before stealing a person blind? No one else in his right mind would be out visiting at this time. Carefully, so as not to spill the hot brew, she placed the mug on the kitchen counter and made her way toward the insistent pounding that she was sure was waking up the whole neighborhood. She peered out a narrow slit in her mini blind and saw an enraged, huge man standing on her front porch with a shredded newspaper in one hand. The other was clenched at his side. He wore practically nothing except a pair of jean shorts. He stepped back and glanced around, clearly not happy that no one had answered his summons. Backing away from the window next to her door, Leah nervously chewed the end of one of her acrylic nails. The man looked familiar. She was sure she had seen him in the yard across the street. He had to be a neighbor. But why was he welcoming her to the neighborhood at such an early hour, and with an angry expression on his face? She had been here only a few days, and her family hadn't done anything yet to upset the delicate balance of this small town. Or had they? She thought back over the past few days of almost nonstop unpacking. She had been too tired to even venture from the house much, and the same went for the rest of her family—she hoped. When the pounding started again, she was so surprised by the sound that she bit through the end of her new acrylic nail. Well, now he was making her mad. Without thinking, she yanked open the front door and prepared to confront the man who had the nerve to pay her a call at seven o'clock in the morning. "Look what you made me do!" Leah held up her hand. "I've tried everything to grow my own nails long, and nothing's worked. I finally decide to get fake ones—that I might, by the way, tell you cost me forty dollars—and look what your pounding has done. They haven't even lasted one week." She blew out a deep breath, then brushed her bangs away from her face in frustration. His dark eyes widened, and his mouth dropped open. He started to say something, but decided instead to allow his gaze to trek downward slowly—way too slowly for Leah's peace of mind. A blush leaped into her cheeks as she remembered her skimpy attire. She controlled the strong urge to try to stretch her large, white T-shirt until it covered more than the tops of her thighs. When his survey stopped at her bare feet, her toes wiggled as if they had a will of their own. She felt practically naked under his intense look. While he was staring at her, she began at his bare feet, which were braced apart in a stance that conveyed his anger, not one toe wiggling. Her gaze traveled upward over long legs that probably belonged to a runner, to narrow hips that the jean material hugged nicely. She paused ever so slightly at the washboard ripples in his flat stomach and came to the decision that the man worked out religiously, something she religiously tried to avoid. Her impression of his being an exercise freak was confirmed when he

EDITORIAL REVIEW: A Christmas Conundrum Women, Dr. Jacob Hartman knew, were a mystery. Take the first time he met social worker Hannah Smith at the Stone Refuge home for foster children. The woman stared him down as if he'd come at her with castor oil. Why? His past was full of heavy-duty heartache, but he was positive they'd never met. And as a former foster child himself, Jacob was deeply touched by how much she cared about the kids at the home, how loving she was to everyone but him. Which was where, he figured, the mistletoe came in!

Running out of time...After two months of protective custody, bodyguard Arianna Jackson is days away from testifying at a murder trial when the unthinkable happens. Her Alaska safe house is attacked, and Arianna is forced to go on the run with U.S. Marshal Brody Callahan. Arianna is used to issuing orders, not taking them, but now, out in the wild, with a bounty on her head and a killer on her heels, she has only one hope of making it to testify--the handsome protector at her side.

Drugs. Murder. Redemption. From USA Today Bestselling author, Margaret Daley, is another romantic suspense from her series Strong Women, Extraordinary Situations. When Jessie Michaels discovers a letter written to her by her deceased best friend, she is determined to find who murdered Mary Lou, at first thought to be a victim of a serial killer by the police. Jessie’s questions lead to an attempt on her life. The last man she wanted to come to her aid was Josh Morgan, who had been instrumental in her brother going to prison. Together they uncover a drug ring that puts them both in danger. Will Jessie and Josh find the killer? Love? Or will one of them fall victim to a DEADLY DOSE? Strong Women, Extraordinary Situations books: Deadly Hunt—Book 1 Deadly Intent—Book 2 Deadly Holiday—Book 3 Deadly Countdown—Book 4 Deadly Noel—Book 5 Deadly Legacy—Book 7

In this classic romance from fan favorite author Margaret Daley, there's a family in the making...Struggling to single-handedly raise a special-needs infant and a son headed for trouble, Rebecca Michaels thinks God had abandoned her. Until police officer Gabriel Stone shows up on her doorstep, offering a firm hand, an understanding heart and an unshakable faith. Witnessing the small miracle this loner is performing in her family, Rebecca wonders if she's given up on God too soon. And if He doesn't have some secret plan. One that would enable her to help Gabriel set aside his burning need for revenge. With God's help, could her healing touch now give them both a second chance at love?Originally published in 2002

A PERILOUS SECOND CHANCE When district attorney Tory Carson returns home after a long day in court prosecuting a gang leader, she finds her house trashed. Concerned that the vandalism is connected to the trial, the local police chief calls the Texas Rangers...and her former love Cade Morgan responds. Tory's history with Cade—and the secret they share—makes her reluctant to let him back into her life. But Tory doesn't want to choose between bringing down a gang leader and protecting her teenage daughter. With the threat escalating the longer she tries the case, the safest place for Tory and her daughter is at Cade's ranch. But can Cade protect them long enough for Tory to bring the criminal to justice?

In Search of Her Son When a young boy goes missing from wilderness day camp, Alaskan search and rescue worker Josiah Witherspoon is on the case. The brooding ex-marine promises to find the child and return him to his worried mother. But he doesn't know that Ella Jackson has a secret past. One that could put them all in danger. When tensions mount, Ella needs to tell Josiah the truth--but she can't set aside her fears enough to trust him. Ella and Josiah are ready to risk their lives to save her son, but will they risk their hearts, as well? Alaskan Search and Rescue: Risking their lives to save the day

YOURS, MINE AND OURS?Young widow Jesse Bradshaw is content to be a loving mother to her son, a devoted granddaughter, a doll maker and the keeper of a gaggle of pets. She can't imagine having anything more in her already crowded life—until jaded Nick Blackburn and his daughter move in next door. Cindy needs a mother's love, something the wealthy businessman can't provide for his precious child. Jesse tries to use her matchmaking skills to find a suitable wife for the workaholic widower, but what can she do when she realizes she is Nick's perfect match?Originally published in 2005

MISTLETOE AND MURDER When Dr. Bree Mathison's plane plummets into the Alaskan wilderness at Christmastime, she is torn between grief and panic. With the pilot--her dear friend--dead and wolves circling, she struggles to survive. Search and Rescue leader David Stone fights his way through the elements to save her. David suspects the plane crash might not have been an accident, spurring Bree's sense that she's being watched. But why is someone after her? Suddenly Bree finds herself caught in the middle of a whirlwind of secrets during the holiday season. With everyone she cares about most in peril, Bree and her promised protector must battle the Alaskan tundra and vengeful criminals to make it to the New Year. Alaskan Search and Rescue: Risking their lives to save the day

Ten years ago Jordan Masterson left her hometown heartbroken--and pregnant. Now, yearning for connection with her family, the single mother returns to Tallgrass, Oklahoma. But she's shocked to find her son's father--unaware he has a child--a vital part of the community. Zachary Rutgers owns the ranch that the local homeschoolers use for riding and recreation. Which means little Nicholas, Jordan and Zachary will be spending a lot of time together. Jordan must tell Zachary the truth about their son--and ask for answers herself. Hoping the heart of her cowboy will still be hers for the taking.

In this reader-favorite tale, Margaret Daley demonstrates that love and family are the only things that truly matter.Just when Tory Alexander is ready to abandon her lifelong dream of having a family, she bonds with a special child whose needs outweigh her own. Now Tory will do anything to help the little girl—even if it meant marrying the child's father! But the quiet agony in Slade Donaldson's eyes tells Tory his daughter isn't the only one who needs to be made whole again. And in spite of her own tragedy, Tory feels an inexplicable need to ease some of Slade's suffering. Can Tory finally have the family she longs for?

Love Inspired Suspense brings you three new titles at a great value, available now! Enjoy these suspenseful romances of danger and faith. SECURITY BREACH Capitol K-9 Unit by Margaret Daley A White House trespasser is on the loose, and tour director Selena Barrow teams up with Capitol K-9 Unit member Nicholas Cole and his trusted dog, Max, to track down the intruder…before his destructive plans are brought to fruition.BACKFIRE Mountain Cove by Elizabeth Goddard Since testifying against a gang leader, Tracy Murray's been hiding as an Alaskan search and rescuer. When the crime boss's henchmen find her, Tracy turns to firefighter David Warren—who'll stop at nothing to keep her safe.PERMANENT VACANCY by Katy Lee Television host Colm McCrae doesn't know whether "accidents" keep occurring on set of Gretchen Bauer's B and B restoration because his boss is desperate to boost ratings—or because someone is out for revenge against the beautiful woman. **

District attorney, Kira Davis, convicted the wrong man—Gabriel Michaels, a single dad with a young daughter. When new evidence was brought forth, his conviction was overturned, and Gabriel returned home to his ranch to put his life back together. Although Gabriel is free, the murderer of his wife is still out there and resumes killing women. In a desperate alliance, Kira and Gabriel join forces to find the true identity of the person terrorizing their town. Will they be able to forgive the past and find the killer before it's too late?

On a kidnapper's trail...Lone Star Justice never failsMinutes after his baby nephew is kidnapped, Texas Ranger Dallas Sanders traces the crime to a child trafficking ring hiding in plain sight. As he and local sheriff Rachel Young race to expose the sinister conspiracy, they're determined to keep their relationship professional. But when Rachel's infant daughter is also abducted, can she and Dallas rescue the children in time...and survive to have a future together?

Home to a Cowboy In a split second, a tragic accident ends Kathleen Somers's ballet career. Her dreams shattered, she returns home to the Soaring S ranch...and her first love. Suddenly the local veterinarian, Dr. Nate Sterling, goes from her ex to her champion. With the help of a lively poodle therapy dog, the cowboy vet sets out to challenge Kathleen's strength and heal her heart. He'll show her there's life beyond dance, even if it means she leaves town again. But maybe, just maybe, he'll convince her there's only one thing in life worth having...and he's standing right in front of her. Caring Canines: Loving and loyal, these dogs mend hearts.

Love's Healing Power After surviving a tragic accident, little Madison Winters is in desperate need of comfort. And social worker Abbey Harris has the perfect solution. With the help of her cherished therapy dogs, Gabe and Cottonball, Abbey soon coaxes a smile from Madi--and her workaholic guardian. Dominic Winters is heartbreakingly handsome and is hurting just as much as Madi. But it might take more than wagging tails to get the brooding businessman to open his heart. With the help of a matchmaking little girl and two sweet dogs, Abbey and Dominic may get a second chance at love. Caring Canines: Loving and loyal, these dogs mend hearts.

Enjoy this heartwarming story in the Fostered By Love series, from top selling author Margaret Daley.Three foster kids fall into Noah Maxwell's lap and turns his life upside down. The successful businessman knows nothing about children, so he hires single mom Cara Winters to help care for his new brood. Cara senses that despite Noah's confident faade, old wounds trouble him. But he refuses to discuss his past pain, despite her desire to help him heal. Perhaps her love can inspire Noah to relinquish his independence and give Cara and the children the fairy-tale ending they all deserved.Originally published 2008

OPERATION BABY RESCUE To rescue an abducted infant from a baby-smuggling ring, U.S marshal Colton Phillips has to work with FBI agent Lisette Sutton. But their tactics couldn't be more different. The too-pretty agent goes by the book, whereas Colton breaks rules to get the job done. Colton vows to keep his heart out of the job, but his unwanted attraction to Lisette lowers his guard. Now Lisette--and an innocent child--are in grave danger, and Colton will stop at nothing to save them. Witness Protection: Hiding in plain sight

EDITORIAL REVIEW: ***Family for Keeps*** A senseless tragedy had shattered Tess Morgan's dreams of a family of her own, and even shaken her faith. But now a very special man, single father Peter MacPherson, wanted to help her find her way home—if only she had the courage to love again. ***Sadie's Hero* ** A bachelor auction was the only way Sadie Spender could get close to a millionaire to ask for a charity donation. But one "date" with Andrew Knight—seemingly so cold, yet truly so caring—showed her that this man could offer her far more than mere money.

WHO IS SHE? ... While looking for a missing child in Sagebrush, Texas, K-9 detective Lee Calloway and his border-collie partner find someone else. A mystery woman running for her life, scared and injured. But she has no idea who she is - or why someone is after her. Lee's unit suspects "Heidi" is a criminal who knows more than she's saying, yet his gut instinct says she's innocent. Lee vows to protect her until her memory returns, but now someone is desperate to ensure that never happens.

Down on her luck, single mom, Lacey St. John, believes her life has finally changed for the better when she receives an inheritance from a wealthy stranger. Her ancestral home she'd thought forever lost has been transformed into a lucrative bed and breakfast guaranteed to bring much-needed financial security. Her happiness is complete until strange happenings erode her sense of well-being. When her life is threatened, she turns to neighbor and police detective, Ryan McNeil, for help. He promises to solve the mystery of who's ruining her newfound peace of mind, but when her troubles escalate to the point that her every move leads to danger, she's unsure who to trust. Is the strong, capable neighbor she's falling for as amazing as he seems? Or could he be the man who wants her dead?

Fall in love with this classic romance from fan favorite author Margaret Daley. Even the humid weather of Magnolia Blossom can't melt the tension that flares between Rachel Peters and Michael Hunter. High school sweethearts ten years ago, now they're face-to-face again, and there are a myriad of unanswered questions. Rachel is only back temporarily, to get to know her younger sister and brother again before she takes them away with her. But raising her siblings isn't as easy as she thought it would be, and as she watches Michael tenderly caring for his own son, she knows she needs help. So he agrees to teach her—about family, and about the small- town life she'd forgotten. But she learns much more—about how she might just decide to stay and make a family—that includes Michael.Originally published in 2003

A violent encounter in a deserted parking lot is FBI agent Sam Pierce's only clue to the menace who is stalking child psychologist Jocelyn Gold. A random event? Or a client-s revenge? When darkness falls, the danger deepens....

REUNIONS CAN BE DEADLY Teaming up with an old flame is not what bodyguard Chloe Howard would call a smart move. Nine years ago Chloe and T. J. Davenport worked on a case together, fell in love, then went their separate ways. Now she's reunited with the fearless bodyguard to protect a controversial couple on a book tour through Texas. And the reunion reminds Chloe of dreams best forgotten. She knows she has to keep her emotions in check so their clients' protection remains their top priority. Protection that is the only thing keeping them from falling prey to a stalker's deadly schemes.