Overwhelmed by the responsibilities of running a ranch on her own, Laurel Tracey decides to hire a convict-a man who's just scary enough to take care of squatters and just desperate enough to agree to a one year post.

The years following the war have been hard on Laurel Tracey. Both her brother and her father died in battle, and her mother passed away shortly after receiving word of their demise. Laurel has been trying to run her two hundred acre ranch as best she can.

When she discovers that squatters have settled in her north pasture and have no intention of leaving, Laurel decides to use the last of her money to free a prisoner from the local jail. If she agrees to offer him room and board for one year, he will have to work for her to pay off his debt.

Former soldier Thomas Baker knows he's in trouble when he finds himself jailed because he couldn't pay a few fines. Laurel's offer might be his only ticket out. Though she's everything he ever dreamed of in a woman-sweet and tender-hearted, yet strong-he's determined to remain detached, work hard on her behalf, and count the days until he's free again.

But when cattle start dying and Laurel's life is threatened, Thomas realizes more than just his freedom is on the line. Laurel needs someone to believe in her and protect her property. And it isn't long before Laurel realizes that Thomas Baker is far more than just a former soldier. He's a trustworthy hero, and he needs more than just his freedom-he needs her love and care too.

About the Author
Shelley Shepard Gray is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail. Find Shelley on her website: ShelleyShepardGray.com; on Facebook: ShelleyShepardGray; Twitter: @ShelleySGray.

Reviews
'A sweet historical romance with charming, caring characters with an interesting story. The female lead, Laurel, is a breath of fresh air. She isn't the typical woman of the 1860s; she is gutsy and tough. The storyline is fast-paced and believable with memorable scenes. Gray brings the past alive with her novels. This one is a keeper.' * RT Book Reviews, 4 stars *
'This inspiring story about realizing one's own worth in the Lord should be recommended to fans of Deanne Gist.' * CBA Market book reviews *
"Gray's ardent fans will line up for this one." * Library Journal *



Book Information
ISBN 9780310345428
Author Shelley Shepard Gray
Format Paperback
Page Count 320
Imprint Zondervan
Publisher Zondervan
Weight(grams) 290g
Dimensions(mm) 212mm * 138mm * 24mm