Secrets & Charades

Jake Marcum runs a busy ranch with little time for romance, and his emotional wounds make him resistant to love. When battlefield nightmares disrupt his peace and his tomboy niece Juliet requires guidance, he decides a mail-order bride might solve both problems. Dr. Evangeline Olson is unaware that her niece has been corresponding with Jake on her behalf, and she has no intention of leaving her medical practice for a stranger. However, when an inheritance threatens to expose a long-hidden secret, she travels west to marry Jake. Jake quickly discovers Evangeline is more complicated than expected, particularly when her presence creates tension in the community. As the couple navigates their marriage of convenience, they face additional challenges from cattle rustling and kidnapping. The story explores whether they can move past their previous heartaches to build a genuine marriage. This novel contains little to no sexual content, violence, or strong language, and may include inspirational or religious elements.