Can his wartime K-9 save him From homeland danger?Don't interfere or you're next. Army veteran Kell McLaren won't comply with the threat. He and Jenna Blair—wrongfully discharged from the army—mean to investigate two suspicious deaths possibly tied to a mysterious church sect...and a drug cartel. With Kell's military-trained K-9 companion, the troubled vets uncover unspeakable secrets, while finding in each other welcome respite from combat trauma and treacherous betrayal.From Harlequin Intrigue: Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.Discover more action-packed stories in the Conard County: The Next Generation series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following order: Book 1: A Soldier's HomecomingBook 2: Protector of OneBook 3: The Unexpected HeroBook...

They want the same thing—To bring a murderer to justice.Major Daniel Duke doesn't care that the Conard County sheriff's office doesn't want his help tracking down his brother's killer. He refuses to be left out of the search. But Deputy Cat Jansen has her marching orders: keep the decorated army ranger from hindering their investigation. As the search heats up, Daniel and Cat discover they share more than a relentless pursuit of justice. But would they have to pay with their lives to find the truth?New York Times Bestselling Author

New York Times Bestselling AuthorChristmas season is marred by violence In a once peaceful town. Christmas is a magical time for Parson Molly Canton. But savage attacks on several women in her parish threaten that joy. Assisting Detective Callum McCloud's investigation, Molly is drawn to the tortured man, embittered by a devastating loss. Once the detective realizes these attacks are a smoke screen obscuring the real target—Molly—the stakes escalate...especially now that Molly's goodness has breached Callum's calloused heart.From Harlequin Intrigue: Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.Discover more action-packed stories in the Conard County: The Next Generation series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following order: Book 1: A Soldier's HomecomingBook 2: Protector...

When a lonely ranch owner is threatenedA man from her past reappears After several terrifying incidents at her isolated ranch, widow Grace Hall turns to her late husband's best friend, Mitch, for help. When an unknown enemy threatens them both, the tough-as-nails rancher vows to track down the culprit. And as sparks fly between them and Grace is confronted by Mitch's long-hidden feelings, she must risk not only her life, but also her heart... From Harlequin Romantic Suspense: Danger. Passion. Drama.Feel the excitement in these uplifting romances, part of the Conard County: The Next Generation series:Book 1: A Soldier's HomecomingBook 2: Protector of OneBook 3: The Unexpected HeroBook 4: The Man from NowhereBook 5: Her Hero in HidingBook 6: A Soldier's RedemptionBook 7: No Ordinary HeroBook 8: The Final...

New York Times Bestselling AuthorShe's about to face danger...the kind she never trained for.Neither elite soldier Hillary Kristiansen nor US Special Ops member Trace Mullen knew that a trip to the cemetery to mourn their shared friends' deaths would result in an investigation. But as they bond over their grief, they find themselves determined to prove that the deaths were not mere tragedies—they were murders. In the process, they'll expose a cover-up...and fight for their lives when an illicit arms dealer sets his sights on them.From Harlequin Intrigue: Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.Discover more action-packed stories in the Conard County: The Next Generation series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following order:Book 2: Protector of OneBook 3: The Unexpected HeroBook 4: The Man from NowhereBook 5: Her Hero in HidingBook 6: A Soldier's...

They Can Only Solve The Perfect Murder If They Work Together.After a shot rings out in the night, park ranger Blaire Afton knows her hard-won serenity is in jeopardy. But when she's faced with a murder with no motive and no clues, US forest ranger Gus Maddox agrees with her suspicion that this is no random crime. With their shared military past, Blaire and Gus become close. But will their need for each other hinder their quest for justice? 

She Thought She Had Nothing To Fear... Until She Returned To Wyoming.The shock of seeing a peeping Tom at her window revives nurse Haley McKinsey's worst nightmare: her childhood abduction. Did this voyeur kidnap her so long ago?But only her childhood friend Roger McLeod believes her suspicion. After several harrowing attempts on her life, Haley accepts the cowboy's protection. And as their bond begins to turn into something more, a shadow from her past tries to silence her for good.

As a storm rages,can he unmask the murderer in their midst? When a killer strikes twice in the same day, former soldier turned stockade owner Josh Healey steps in to protect the locals who've taken refuge across the creek. But it's writer Krystal Metcalfe who penetrates his hardened exterior. Then, just as the investigation is truly getting underway, a savage rainstorm cuts them off from the outside world. Now Josh and Krystal must trust each other with their secrets to stop a chilling vendetta...and survive. From Harlequin Intrigue: Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.Discover more action-packed stories in the Conard County: The Next Generation series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following order: Book 1: A Soldier's HomecomingBook 2: Protector of...

A stalker is on her trail...And he won't stop at getting even In town to look after her teenage niece, Jasmine Nelson is constantly mistaken for her twin sister, Lily. When threatening letters—and terrifying "gifts"—start arriving on Lily's doorstep, ex-soldier and neighbor Adam Ryder immediately steps in to protect Jazz. But will their fragile trust and deepest fears give the stalker a devastating advantage—one impossible to survive?From Harlequin Intrigue: Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.Discover more action-packed stories in the Conard County: The Next Generation series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following order: Book 1: A Soldier's HomecomingBook 2: Protector of OneBook 3: The Unexpected HeroBook 4: The Man...

New York Times Bestselling AuthorWhen she goes after a killerHe's by her side, every step of the wayInjury has left ex-cop Kerri Addison with seizures, diminished self-confidence and a dread of relationships. Now she teaches criminal law in a town where a cunning rapist is at large. Drawn to investigate with Sergeant Stuart Canady, Kerri knows there is much to fear. But with fear comes grit, an effective weapon against this monster. Falling for her handsome new partner—now that's another danger entirely...and one that might get her killed.From Harlequin Romantic Suspense: Danger. Passion. Drama.Conard County: The Next GenerationGuardian in DisguiseThe Widow's ProtectorRancher's Deadly RiskWhat She SawRocky Mountain LawmanKiller's PreyDeadly HunterSnowstorm ConfessionsUndercover HunterPlaying with FireConard County WitnessA Secret in Conard...

They could only solve the perfect murderIf they worked together.After a shot rings out in the night, park ranger Blaire Afton knows her hard-won serenity is in jeopardy. But when she's faced with a murder with no motive and no clues, US forest ranger Gus Maddox agrees with her suspicion that this is no random crime. With their shared military past, Blaire and Gus become close. But will their need for each other hinder their quest for justice?

New York Times Bestselling AuthorThey'll bring a criminal to justiceIf an assassin doesn't kill her first Security expert Hale Scribner doesn't get personal with clients. Ever. But Allie Burton isn't his standard low-risk charge. She has evidence that could put away a notoriously shady CEO for good. But with an assassin trailing them 24/7, there are few places to hide in a small Wyoming town. Not from the danger...or their undeniable attraction. They'll need a Christmas miracle to survive both.From Harlequin Intrigue: Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.Discover more action-packed stories in the Conard County: The Next Generation series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following order: Book 1: A Soldier's HomecomingBook 2: Protector of OneBook 3:...

He's Honoring A Fallen Friend… But Never Expected To Fall In Love.When he first arrives in Conard County, Sergeant Gil York is licking the wounds of combat–and mourning a beloved friend. But when he meets his fallen buddy’s cousin, Miriam Baker, the troubled hero feels alive in a way he hasn’t in years. Gil’s walls are high…but Miri might just be the one to scale them, right into his heart. 

SUMMARY: No memory, no future, and only a white rose to identify her. . . The Ilduin Bane are myth and legend: assassin mages whose blades drip poison and whose minds share a common purpose-one of death or control. All who have gone against them have been lost, unable to penetrate their powerful protections. And so Archer Blackcloak gathers a small band to bring about the downfall of the Bane. From Archer comes strength of purpose and an indomitable will. Ratha and Giri, the Anari warriors, give the group a fighter's skill and temper. They are joined by Young Tom, whose unwavering loyalty is matched by an insatiable curiosity, and by Sara Deepwell, who has a surprising talent for magic. From their last member, Tess Birdsong, the only survivor of a brutal attack that left her with no memory, comes the power of one who has nothing left to lose. But the road to freedom is long and twisted, and before they are finished their old sorrows may destroy them. Yet once started, they cannot turn back--no matter how high the price to be paid. . .

A Wyoming snowstorm races inBringing buried secrets to the surfaceA stray dog just dropped a bone at animal control officer Allan Carstairs's feet—a human bone. K-9 cop Kelly Noveno is certain it's connected to a recent disappearance, but with a snowstorm bearing down on Conard County, the two must hunker down in Allan's cabin to continue the search. But their long-held feelings are rushing to the surface, making this search more complicated than ever.

They Want The Same Thing—To Bring A Murderer To Justice.Major Daniel Duke doesn't care that the Conard County sheriff's office doesn't want his help tracking down his brother's killer. He refuses to be left out of the search. But Deputy Cat Jansen has her marching orders: keep the decorated army ranger from hindering their investigation. As the search heats up, Daniel and Cat discover they share more than a relentless pursuit of justice. But would they have to pay with their lives to find the truth?

He's a small-town detective Who doesn't need help from a big-city cop Newly promoted within the Conard County Sheriff's Department, Guy Redwing wants Valerie Brighton to stay away from his first case. But the missing child he's searching for is Valerie's niece, and Valerie is an experienced investigator. As they race against the clock to find the two-year-old girl, their mutual distrust turns to respect—and grows into an attraction that takes them both by surprise...From Harlequin Intrigue: Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.Discover more action-packed stories in the Conard County: The Next Generation series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following order: Book 1: A Soldier's HomecomingBook 2: Protector of OneBook 3: The Unexpected HeroBook 4: The Man...

She's usually the protector Will she accept his protection? A whiteout blizzard leaves Deputy Artie Jackson no choice but to take Boyd Connor into her home. Maybe getting this stoic combat veteran to talk about his demons will distract her from her own. Their halting trust in each other takes on a new urgency when Artie starts getting threats against her life. As they search for her stalkers, will they find their way to each other?From Harlequin Intrigue: Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.Discover more action-packed stories in the Conard County: The Next Generation series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following order: Book 1: A Soldier's HomecomingBook 2: Protector of OneBook 3: The Unexpected HeroBook 4: The Man from NowhereBook 5: Her Hero...

Something sinister is at work in Conard County.Former soldier and newbie deputy Candela "Candy" Serrano is assigned as a liaison to Steve Hawks, the handsome host of TV's Ghostly Ties. She's skeptical of Steve's purposes, since chasing supernatural shadows isn't Candy's idea of police work—until some very real killings start occurring around town. Suddenly, Candy and Steve find themselves struggling to track down who's behind these vicious crimes...and how far they'll go to keep long-buried secrets from surfacing.New York Times Bestselling Author

Not quite the assistant he was looking for.But maybe the one he needs...Conard County's new urban planner is juggling more than a job—she's fostering her cousin's baby, too. And Diane Finch isn't sure how her boss, Blaine Harrigan, will take to her cuddly new assistant. But the Irishman's as comfortable with babies as he is with engineering complex projects. And he certainly seems to take to Diane, too. Even if she's got a secret she fears will keep her from love...forever.

Since the death of his claimed mate, the only thing that's kept Luc St. Just's heart beating is his quest for vengeance. His contempt for rogue vampires runs deep. So when a mysterious woman is brutally attacked, Luc's protective instincts—and his will to live—are suddenly reawakened…. As a werewolf who can't shape-shift, Dani Makar wants only to lead a "normal" life. But when the magnetically seductive Luc risks his life to save hers, Dani is torn between everything she believes…and an unstoppable, soul-deep desire. Fiercely drawn to each other, these two sworn enemies fall into a passionate alliance. But evil's wrath cannot be underestimated, nor its ability to destroy…. About the AuthorRachel Lee was hooked on writing by the age of twelve, and practiced her craft as she moved from place to place all over the United States. This New York Times bestselling author now resides in Florida and has the joy of writing full-time. Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.He smelled blood on the night air. Little did he guess the danger it was about to lead him into.Luc St. Just sped through the dark city streets, moving shadow to shadow, too fast for human eyes to see. He didn't want to be here. Indeed, he was returning to this place only because he felt he owed at least a small favor to Jude Messenger, a fellow vampire. Jude was one of very few vampires he counted as a friend.Which wasn't saying much. For most of his two centuries as a vampire, Luc had grown truly close to only one other of his kind: Natasha. His lost lover, his claimed mate. When she had died, madness had overtaken him, and although with Jude's help he'd achieved a measure of vengeance, the excruciating sense of loss and sorrow still remained.A claiming was supposed to be broken by vengeance, but apparently it hadn't been. That left only his own death to release him. But for some reason he clung to his existence, however unwillingly. He hadn't yet asked a vampire for mercy, although he had come close. So he was still here, and because some dregs of conscience prompted him, he was entering a city he had no desire to ever see again.He should be in Paris, the city of his heart. Or anywhere in Europe where life felt more comfortable than this new world with all its brashness and noise.But all those thoughts, thoughts that dogged his heels almost obsessively—a sign of a claiming—dropped into the background as he smelled blood on the air.He was a vampire, and there was no sweeter siren call than that of fresh blood. He lifted his head, sniffing the air, locating the direction from which the enticing scent came. The park. Someone had been injured badly.He could have just continued on his way, but the call was hard to resist, and his resistance was low these days. If nothing else, he could at least put some human out of misery. Or so he thought, trying to put a noble veneer on what was an irresistible instinct.Even he could see some bleak humor in his own rationalization.He slipped through the shadowy woods swiftly, the night as clear to him as day would have been to a human. A high, full moon deepened the shadows, allowing him to pass swiftly, invisible to human eyes, just another shadow among shadows. But for him, colors shone with jewellike brilliance.The night came alive to him in ways it never would for a mortal. The movement of every leaf, the insects crawling in the grass or nibbling on leaves, he could hear all that. Even the sound of water running up inside the trunks of trees reached him with a delightful syncopated rhythm. He heard a bird's wings flutter then settle quickly.The night sang to him.He could hear the distant sound of a baby's cry, a couple of people who argued blocks away and even the sound of someone's private lovemaking.Once, he had soaked up these sounds with pleasure. No more, for he had lost his capacity for pleasure. Tonight he shoved them into the background as the call of blood dominated.He paused a few times, testing the air, smelling for humans. What he smelled gave him pause. As the delicious scent of fresh blood grew, so did another scent: the scent of his own kind."Putain," he said under his breath. He should clear out now. He had a message to deliver, and a face-down with some hungry vampires enjoying their meal would not serve him at all. But there was too much blood on the air, too much to be a simple feeding. What if those he had come to warn Jude about had already arrived?Even when not concerned, a vampire tended to be very quiet, but now he heightened his senses and moved with true stealth to avoid his own kind. Trees zipped past him. He stayed off the paved paths and tasted the air frequently. Both the scent of blood and vampires grew, but the blood strengthened more quickly. Whoever had done this thing, he judged they had moved on.He picked up his pace a bit, then saw the heat signature of a body lying on the ground amidst the trees. The sound of a too-rapid heartbeat reached him. The victim. He circled quickly, looking for others of his kind and soon detected they had moved on to the south.He and the food were alone.He crept toward her and what he saw appalled even him. He was no saint, despite his name, and indulged in willing mortal blood without compunction. But this was not a willing donation, and the savagery of the attack on the woman lying before him shrieked unnecessary violence. She must have put up one hell of a fight and paid for it with a torn and possibly broken body.Her heartbeat raced as her body fought to pump its diminishing blood supply to essential organs. She hovered on the brink of death, and he wondered why her attackers hadn't finished her. It would have been so easy for them to just snap her neck.And what that said about the attackers offended him. There was no need to have been this violent or to have left the woman to die slowly. Like many hunters, he believed in clean kills. Vampires were not cats, to maul their prey. They had other ways of satisfying those urges, sexual and seductive ways that needn't lead to this kind of mess.This group had left a message, writ clear on the woman's body.He could have put an end to her suffering right then, but stayed himself. She might be just the proof he needed to convince Jude of the gravity and reality of the warning he carried.Just as he was bending toward her, he caught an unmistakable smell on the breeze. He straightened and whirled just in time to see another vampire seeping out of the shadows toward him.He considered, then said, "Is she yours?""I came back to finish her." The other vampire, short and wiry, paused. "You can finish her if you want."Luc wanted but refused to, however easy it would have been. "You were a trifle rough on her. She isn't very appealing just now."The other shrugged and moved closer. "Four of us, and she fought. She was quite a handful. In any event, I thought by now she'd be weak enough to finish. Apparently so.""She'll be dead soon enough.""So finish her."He heard the challenge, realized this was one of the rogues and he was being asked to choose a side. If he didn't finish the woman, he would be considered an enemy.How odd, thought a detached part of his mind. A very odd conversation for two vampires to have, especially when they had never met before.There were four of them altogether, useful information. He lifted his head, tasting the air, but could detect no others anywhere near."All right," he said.It was enough to make the other relax just a bit. Enough to give him the opportunity to spring. While he had little advantage in strength, he had another advantage: years of training with the epee had made him fast, springy and, oh, so deadly when it came to one on one.The knife was out of his pocket in an instant and buried in the other swiftly. He pulled it upward, until it reached the heart. He stared into eyes gone black as night, heard the gurgle of the other's breath. Then, with no compunction whatever, he pulled the knife free, dropped it and reached for the other's head. A second later he heard the satisfying crack and the other fell dead. Dawn would take care of his remains.Too easy, he thought. Entirely too easy. Either the other was a total fool, or he had honestly believed that any unknown vampire would not hesitate to take his leftovers. That said more about the rogues than anything he'd heard so far.He picked up his knife, wiping it on the other's clothes, tucking it away. He froze, taking in the night air and listening. No others were about. Not yet. But he had to move fast.Picking up the blood-soaked woman was hard. Not because she was heavy—his preternatural strength made her feel little heavier than air—nor because she was covered in blood. The difficulty came from the way the blood called to him, begging him to drink. It would have been easy, so easy, to drain this woman and walk away. In fact, nothing would have satisfied him more.But he might need her.Still, he hesitated. If he took her with him, she'd leave a trail as clear as neon on the night air, clear to noses that could smell it. If it crossed the path of the rogue vampires, he might have more trouble than he could handle.With a sigh he lifted the woman higher into his arms. It wasn't as if he was attached to his existence. If this turned out to be the end, he wouldn't exactly be disappointed.Nor would he be able to blame himself for failing to warn Jude.Shrugging slightly, he took off through the woods effortlessly, the woman seeming light as eiderdown.He changed one thing, though. He chose a more circuitous route to Jude's place, so that if others caught the scent on the breeze they should assume he was merely carrying away prey to a safer location.With his arms full, he couldn't scale any buildings, so he was forced to stick with ground streets. The limitation made him edgy. He hated to feel edgy. Normally he felt so secure in his power and strength that he seldom spared his own safety a thought.All of that was changing. The world was changing, right now, tonight. The only question was how far he wanted to involve himself in that change.Oddly enough, he didn't know. He had been sure when he set out for Jude, but something about the savaged body in his arms filled him with doubts. As if her silent testimony to the very thing Jude was fighting made him part of the fight.Not now, he told himself. Just get the woman to Jude as proof of what is coming. Think about the rest later.He paused several times, checking the air, but there was no sign he was being followed. Then he noticed that the woman's heart had slowed dangerously and that she no longer leaked blood. Minutes from death probably, but still evidence.

FIRST-TIME FATHER... Rafe Ortiz didn't know a thing about babies. But as a DEA agent, he was an expert at spotting criminals. So when his new son's mobster uncle started asking too many questions, Rafe knew it was time to split. He needed the safety of Conard County. Then Rafe met Angela Jaynes. Being around Angela made Rafe want more than he'd ever thought possible. Would Rafe be able to protect his newborn son and convince Angela that the safest place for her was in his arms?

I'll Be Home by Rachel LeeSeth Hardin is devoted to his career as a navy SEAL, but his ex-wife couldn't handle the pressure of life with a military man. Now he figures he was just meant to be alone. . .until he stumbles upon Maria Hoskins, stranded in the middle of a Christmas blizzard, and finds the greatest gift of all. A Bridge for Christmas by Merline LovelaceAs commander of her combat engineering team, air force reservist Abby Trent has a job to do-and Special Ops major Dan Maxwell seems determined to get in her way. But as they work together on a crucial bridge, Abby discovers there is a lot more to the major than meets the eye. The Wingman's Angel Catherine MannThere's just one thing keeping air force officers Joshua and Alicia Rosen from finalizing their divorce-the Arctic survival course they have to pass together. But when they find themselves chased across the frozen tundra by armed pursuers, even the Alaskan chill is no match for the heat of their desire.

Carey Justice is doing her call-in radio show when she learns that the governor has signed a death warrant for John Otis, a man she helped convict as an assistant prosecutor five years earlier. Convinced of his innocence, she attempts to save him before it's too late. Her ex-lover, the cop who arrested Otis, is the only man who can help her clear him.

New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee brings her beloved Conard County series to a new home! NO PLACE TO HIDE Conard County is a refuge for Dory Lake, a place to flee from her tragic past. For extra security, she goes to Cadell Marcus for one of his expertly trained guard dogs. Just the dog. But the part-time deputy can't help digging deeper into the beautiful stranger's history. After learning the circumstances of the murders Dory witnessed, Cadell isn't about to leave her at the mercy of the calculated killer. The madman is counting on finding Dory isolated, but Cadell vows that she'll never be alone. Guarding her 24/7 is the only way to keep her safe...and to break down her emotional walls he wants so desperately to breach. Conard County: The Next Generation

"In five minutes, you'll be dead."The pregnant widow and her stern words saved Ryder Kelstrom from a tornado. The least he could do was help the woman rebuild after the deadly storm. It felt good working with his hands again, forgetting about all he'd lost...and maybe finding the will to love again.Marti Chastain had nothing left except the baby she carried. But she had a wealth of compassion for Ryder's torment and guilt. As these two lost souls found love and redemption in each other's arms, a secret enemy stalked Ryder. And killing Ryder's new woman would make revenge complete.

On the run from her powerful and lethal almost ex-husband, Kelly Scanlon finds a temporary haven in a small Wyoming town and dares to trust the questioning—gorgeous—cowboy next door. Opening up to Hank Jackson about her past is as frightening as what sent her running in the first place. Except, he's the only one who believes she's in danger—and makes her feel safe. But the gray-eyed man with the guarded heart and tragic past of his own keeps insisting he's nobody's hero. Until Kelly's worst nightmare tracks her down...and her cowboy proves just what he's made of.

A RANCHER WRAPPED IN RED Emotionally and creatively drained, country music star Rory McLane returns home to Conard County, Wyoming, to recoup. He's sworn off women to allow himself time to heal and to protect his daughter. But his home's new caretaker is more appealing than he'd ever imagined. Kind and thoughtful, natural beauty Abby Jason makes Rory want to hum a love song once again... Abby can't help but swoon at Rory's rugged good looks, but the sexy singer is off-limits. Her bitter divorce left her reluctant to trust another man--even one as devoted to his family as Rory. As he and his daughter fill her heart with love and holiday cheer, she wonders if the cowboy might just be the one Christmas miracle to change her mind.

PLAYING HOUSE OR PLAYING FOR KEEPS? Motorcycle-riding judge Wyatt Carter runs his life by the book...mostly. But when his old friend Amber Towers calls him in need, he doesn't hesitate to help her, even though inviting the single and secretly pregnant lawyer to stay in his house has suddenly made him the scandal of Conard County! Wyatt is the port in Amber's stormy situation. Even though their friendship sizzles with an underlying attraction, she has to steer clear, because she is pregnant—and he is headed into an important election! But why, this time, does it seem like Wyatt and Amber are willing—no, eager!—to give the town something to talk about?

MOTHER...NANNY...BRIDE? On the run from her overbearing family and a fiancé with more menace than love in his eyes, Hope Conroy finally took refuge in Conard County, Wyoming. A place of safety, maybe even possibility. But what could a former - and pregnant! - socialite do to keep a roof over her head? Divorced rancher Cash Cashford never expected to be raising an angry tween all by himself. Something about Hope told him immediately that she was what his daughter needed. And since the new nanny had secrets, he vowed to keep his distance - for all their sakes, especially his own! But Hope called to him in a way he never imagined, making him yearn to heal their fractured hearts...and form the family they all longed for.

He's honoring a fallen friend... but never expected to fall in love. When he first arrives in Conard County, Sergeant Gil York is licking the wounds of combat—and mourning a beloved friend. But when he meets his fallen buddy's cousin, Miriam Baker, the troubled hero feels alive in a way he hasn't in years. Gil's walls are high...but Miri might just be the one to scale them, right into his heart.

When her father tells her of the ancient mask that her mother died searching for, archaeologist Veronica Coleridge takes up the quest, with the expert help of a business owner named Dugan. Veronica and Dugan become caught in a maelstrom at sea and learn that far more than an ancient mask is at stake--and only their love and trust can save them.

Explosive secrets threaten everything an agent holds dear...A heart-racing Conard County storyWhen a bomb threat lures ATF agent Darcy Eccles to Wyoming, she isn't expecting to stumble across an antigovernment plot—or for handsome teacher Alex Jansen to be the key to stopping a madman. Enigmatic Alex's past is better left forgotten, but every tick of the clock will bring both of them closer to their nightmares, and to losing one another.

Description to come.

When veterinarian Mike Windwalker shows up on widow Del Carmody's doorstep, she soon discovers that he's no ordinary man. Mike's a drop-dead-gorgeous Native American caught between two worlds: those of science and his ancestors' spiritual ways. Del can't explain the strange things happening in her house -- the unexplained noises and seemingly misplaced items -- unsettling her and her teenage daughter. Concerned for their safety, Mike offers his help. Besides, there's a sexual undercurrent simmering between him and Del and Mike needs to get to the bottom of that, too. Together they must unravel the mystery surrounding the house only to discover a passion that's hard to deny.

She wanted peace. Instead she found danger--and a reason to live againWhen Skylar Jamison heads to the Wyoming Rockies, all the army veteran wants is some rest. But as a stranger warns her away--off public lands--every war-torn nerve she has goes on alert. The ranger who investigates makes her even more wary, for very different reasons. Smart, good-looking, with an inner calm Sky envies, Craig Stone sparks her interest and wakes all her fears.Craig didn't plan on inviting Sky to stay with him. But there are armed strangers in his forest. And Sky--tough, vulnerable, sexy Sky, everything he's ever wanted--is their target. They are each trained to handle danger. It would take both of them, together, to survive this new threat....

Back to Conard County Back under fire. In town for a wedding, Sergeant Jax Stone is "asked" to stick around Conard County to investigate a suspicious fire. He never expects boarding with widow Lynn Macy to give him the taste of family he'd craved. And while helping Lynn renovate her house has the Marine falling for her, Jax's past brings peril to her doorstep. To keep her safe, his only choice may be to give her up...From Harlequin Romantic Suspense: Danger. Passion. Drama.Feel the excitement in these uplifting romances, part of the Conard County: The Next Generation series:Book 1: A Soldier's HomecomingBook 2: Protector of OneBook 3: The Unexpected HeroBook 4: The Man from NowhereBook 5: Her Hero in HidingBook 6: A Soldier's RedemptionBook 7: No Ordinary HeroBook 8: The Final MissionBook 9: Just a CowboyBook 10: The...

In Immortal: Love Stories With Bite, edited by New York Times bestselling author of the House of Night series P.C. Cast, seven of today’s most popular YA vampire and contemporary fantasy authors offer new short stories that prove when you’re immortal, true love really is forever.Rachel Caine (the Morganville Vampires series) revisits the setting of her popular series, where the vampires are in charge and love is a risky endeavor, even when it comes to your own familyCynthia Leitich Smith (Tantalize) gives us a love triangle between a vampire, a ghost and a human girl, in which none of them are who or what they seemClaudia Gray (Evernight) takes us into the world of her Evernight series, in which a pre–Civil War courtesan-to-be is courted by a pale, fair-haired man whose attentions are too dangerous to spurn, in more ways than oneRichelle Mead (the Vampire Academy series) brings us the tale of a young vampire on the run from the rest of her kind, and the human boy who provides the getaway car, as well as a reason to keep runningNancy Holder (the Wicked series, “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”) immerses us in a post-apocalyptic New York where two best friends are forced to make a choice that may kill them bothKristin Cast (the House of Night series) introduces us to a new kind of vampire: one with roots in Greek mythology, and the power to alter space and time to save the girl he's meant to loveRachel Vincent (the Soul Screamers series) explores a new corner of her series with the story of aleanan sidhe capable of inspiring the musician she loves to new creative heights, or draining him, and his talent, dryAnd Tanith Lee (Black Unicorn) shows us what happens when a bright young woman with some supernatural savvy encounters a misguided (but gorgeous) young vampire

SPY... Computer programmer Jessica Kilmer's life altered the moment she realized classified documents had been stolen from her safe. But the real change came when she notified the FBI and met Special Agent Arlen Coulter. For even as Arlen reassured her that he would see to her safety, his sexy good looks awakened her heart to another danger altogether .. . . Years of experience told Arlen that the only risk in this case was the effect Jessica had on him. She aroused feelings he'd long believed dead-and preferred to keep buried. Then new evidence came to light, and he realized that Jessica was in danger, after all. He had to get her out before it was too late . . . for both of them.

From New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee comes a story of one woman's survival and her protector's promise to find answers The arrival of a single black rose signals danger to come for Kylie Brewer. Recovering from a brutal attack that claimed three years of her memory and her chance at a promising career, Kylie just wants to pick up the remaining fragments of her life. She returns to her hometown of Conard City to live with her sister but soon learns that putting the past in its place won't be easy. Marine sergeant Evan Cooper—a trusted family friend who agrees to help Kylie—can't ignore his protective instincts. Or the steadily growing desire he feels for a woman who has overcome so much. He vows to help keep Kylie's demons at bay...but someone else has plans to finish what they started.

In love with his best friend's wife...and baby Keeping a promise to a dead man isn't easy. But Ryker Tremaine is determined to keep his word and make amends to his late friend's wife. When Ryker meets lovely, pregnant Marisa Hayes, she's still grieving. She doesn't believe the official report of her husband's death. And Marisa believes Ryker has the answers she craves. Bound by secrecy, the hunky CIA operative tries to help Marisa find a sense of normalcy...and uncovers a sizzling attraction! As Ryker discovers the richness of life back on the grid, old secrets threaten. Marisa still seeks answers and Ryker knows if he tells her the truth about her husband's death—and his role in it—Marisa and her baby may be lost to him forever...

A passionate summer romance between a rancher and a social worker is rekindled when they meet again unexpectedly in New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee's latest addition to her miniseries, Conard County: The Next Generation!  "I love you."  Ten years ago rancher Cliff Martin said those three little words to Holly Heflin. But all she said was "goodbye." She ran from Conard County fast as a jackrabbit, leaving Cliff with a broken heart. But Cliff never forgot the one that got away....  Now Holly has returned to settle her aunt's estate - and Cliff is the executor. Her matchmaking aunt and his jealous ex-wife are the least of Holly's problems. Everywhere there are memories...and Cliff. But he's still a small-town rancher with roots and she's a big-city girl with a ticket home. She's got two weeks to avoid the hunky cowboy....  But what if she can't?

Return to Conard County...where reunited spouses face a dangerous obsession The last man that Nurse Brianna Cole expects to bring home is the one she remembers all too well--her ex-husband Luke Masters. But when he needs to recuperate from serious injury, her Wyoming cabin becomes his refuge. Though concussed and hazy, Luke is convinced someone pushed him off the snowy mountain he was evaluating for a ski resort. And though he can't remember why, he knows Bri is next. Snowed in with her ex, Bri is blinded by old feelings, an attraction that never died. But the closer she gets to Luke, the closer she gets to murder. Because someone is watching her...stalking her...and if he can't have her, no one can!

A vampire mage and a modern cop team up to battle evil magic… When police sergeant Caro Hamilton witnesses a man being killed by an invisible assailant, she suspects a detective agency with a reputation for solving "weird cases" might be her only hope. Especially now that she senses someone has been watching her ever since she saw the murder. But when Caro walks in the door, her own uncanny skills tell her these aren't ordinary men…especially Damien Keller, who, surprisingly enough, is the first person to believe her. Once a Persian mage, Damien is drawn to Caro in a way that no woman has ever attracted him. The magic glimmering within this mortal witch calls to his own, and the need to possess Caro drives him, until it's all-consuming. The vampire can fight it…or he can save her, teach her and damn himself.

One marine meets his match on Thunder Mountain A thrilling Conard County: The Next Generation romanceArchaeologist Renee Dubois is used to digging up the past, not falling headlong into intrigues of the present. But trouble comes her way when she meets former marine Carter Copeland, whose cool-and-collected demeanor contrasts with his lethally sexy looks. As Carter and Renee stumble across a deadly secret, they must race against time to survive.

Dom Mason wants his sons to remember their mother as a hero, a loving wife and mother, a nurse and a soldier. He wants to let the past go, let the wounds heal. For the past two years, NCIS agent Courtney Tyson blamed herself for Mary Mason's death. She's determined to bring the killer to justice. But that means telling Dom the truth about how his wife died. Neither of them expects -- nor wants -- the sudden attraction that flares between them, hot and fierce. But when a killer intent on protecting his secrets comes for Courtney, they will discover that it's not the past that matters, but the future...together.

December 25: A bomb rips through a packed cathedral in Jakarta. As the hours pass, terrorist explosions continue around the globe, triggering worldwide panic and creating a nightmare beyond words.... Inside the covert agency known only as Office 119, agents Renate B�chle and Lawton Caine are called upon to identify the groups responsible for the bloodshed. But the so-called "Black Christmas" attacks are nothing more than a smoke screen for a far more sinister conspiracy. At its heart are ruthless secret societies with blood ties that date back thousands of years, whose goals are nothing less than global domination. Renate and Lawton are only beginning to fathom how far the darkness extends. With the U.S. president set to deploy nuclear weapons against the wrong targets and religious violence erupting across Europe, they must untangle the interwoven plots before time runs out and Armageddon becomes a terrifying reality.

He's her only refuge In these rugged mountains, Cassie thought she'd finally found the small-town welcome she's been looking for her whole life. But after she stops some school bullies, suddenly the rest of this close-knit community isn't acting so friendly. The threats begin, and this schoolteacher has nowhere to turn for help - until a rugged, mysterious rancher steps in. Lincoln Blair has been drawn to Cassie from day one. That's why he's avoiding the too-tempting new teacher - he knows from experience that outsiders get bored and leave. Still, he just can't help wanting to protect Cassie when trouble starts. As her danger grows, Linc realizes it' his heart he's forgotten to safeguard….

On the run from a killer, Kay Young depended on the stranger who rescued her one snowy night. Though a lifetime of hurt had made her wary of men, Clint Ardmore was different. He offered her shelter, protection...and the chance to discover true passion. A soldier-turned-writer, Clint craved the privacy of his secluded ranch, where he could be alone with the gruesome memories of combat. But once he let Kay into his home, he let her into his heart. When the danger shadowing her closed in, he knew that there was only one way to ensure Kay's safety...and stop a killer's obsession.

TWO SEEMINGLY UNRELATED MURDERS PUT TAMPA HOMICIDE DETECTIVE KAREN SWEENEY IN THE CROSSHAIRS... Both victims were women - but what could connect an elderly nanny and a young exotic dancer? As Karen discovers, the answer is Senator Grant Lawrence, presidential contender...and a man with secrets. As she is drawn deeper into a world of lies and hidden motives, the one person Karen is half ready to trust is the senator himself, a man torn by grief and guilt, trying to protect his children. Could he have committed such crimes? And if not, then someone is trying to ruin him, and everyone around him is at risk - his children...and even Karen herself.

The return... Vanessa Welling never planned to leave home...until her family fled in shame in the wake of the financial catastrophe that shattered their town—and her father's will to live. If it weren't for the wreck of a house she just inherited, Vanessa wouldn't have come back, either. And attractive contractor Tim Dawson and his young son are making it even harder to put the Wyoming town behind her once and for all. Tim has heard the stories. But Vanessa did nothing wrong and shouldn't spend the rest of her life paying the price. Can't she see the positive effect she's having on the single father and his son? That they have the right stuff to build a future? And Conard County is the perfect place to start over!

A DEPUTY DADDY? After her policeman husband died in the line of duty, Vicki Templeton swore off lawmenboth for herself and her four-year-old daughter. Krystal can't afford to lose another father figure, and Vicki refuses to subject them both to such pain again. But when she moves from Texas to Conard County, Wyoming, Vicki's heart is on the line after she meets her handsome, helpful new neighbor. A widower himself, sheriff's deputy Dan Casey knows a thing or two about loss. He tries to keep his distance from beautiful Vicki and her adorable child, but Vicki's sweet kid makes him long for the family he's always dreamed of. Can a determined little girl teach her mother and the cop next door a thing or two about love?

When popular Father Quinlan is accused of murdering a young parishioner and nailing him to a cross inside the church, private investigator Chloe Ryan knows he's innocent. Soon, Chloe is butting heads--and hearts--with police detective Matthew Diel. Original.

New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee's sizzling Conard County series continues! Hunted by an anonymous killer, rogue CIA agent Trace Archer seeks out a trusted buddy in Wyoming. With danger stalking him, the last thing he expects is innocent civilian Julie Ardlow to offer him help. But when the beautiful kindergarten teacher with a brave heart gives him a cover he can't refuse—pretending to be an old flame—sparks begin to fly! Brave heart? Try crazy. Because though Julie will do anything to save the sexy spy's life, he's eventually going to leave, right? But she can't resist emotionally withdrawn Trace and his soulful eyes. And the deeper they dig into his past to suss out a murderer, the closer danger creeps toward them both...

MAN'S—AND WOMAN'S?—BEST FRIEND Conard County's returning war hero is a world away from the popular high school athlete Ashley Granger remembers. Zane McLaren doesn't want any fanfare—he doesn't want any human contact at all. But it seems Zane's affectionate golden retriever has other ideas about the decorated soldier and the teacher next door! Wounded in battle, Zane wants only to be left alone. He doesn't need anyone's pity, especially his outgoing, dog-loving neighbor's. Because it isn't just Ashley's legendary apple pie that's tempting Zane to quit hiding from life. Suddenly the Purple Heart recipient is having a hard time keeping his own heart under wraps. Has he found the woman who can help him heal the past and build a loving future together?

In New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee's latest Conard County romance, passion blazes between a fire chief and a beautiful arson investigator The cunning arsonist targeting Conard County has fire chief Wayne Camden stymied. Teaming up with investigator Charity Atkins seems like a no-brainer. She has the expertise to track down the firebug before he kills someone. But Wayne never anticipated making Charity a target. Since his wife left, Wayne's had little interest in relationships. The single dad is unsettled by the electrifying attraction Charity ignites. Wayne is rooted in the community, and Charity's a nomad. But with danger stalking them, irresistible desire forces them both to reevaluate their lives.

Conard County, where a killer lies in wait The note wasn't a threat, exactly. But for Corey Donahue, who'd witnessed her mother's murder as a child, it felt very menacing. Surprisingly, the one person she trusted to show the note to was a man merely renting a room from her--Austin Mendez. Traumatized since childhood, Corey had never trusted men...until Austin moved in. Six years undercover had caused Austin to shut everyone out...until Corey. The vulnerability she hid from others made him yearn to break down the walls she'd erected around her heart. And with a killer closing in, two lost souls were discovering the trust they'd lost--and much more--in each other's arms.

In New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee's newest Conard County romance, a killer stalks a wounded warrior and the woman he's vowed to protect I found you. The game begins. The note wasn't a threat exactly. But Jess McGregor senses danger. The wounded ex-soldier offers Lacy Devane a place to feel safe after her stint in witness protection. But someone is after her... Or is Jess the intended target? Jess and Lacy are practically strangers. And the powerful attraction stirring between them may feel like a betrayal to Jess's late wife--Lacy's closest friend. But as a big freeze envelops Conard County, the warmth and healing they find in their growing friendship will be put to the ultimate test by a deranged killer.

From New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Rachel Lee comes a sensual tale about mesmerizing vampire detectives and the love they discover, deep in the night.... THERE WAS ONLY ONE SURE WAY TO KEEP HER SAFE.... Beautiful and independent, writer Yvonne Dupuis is used to taking care of herself. But when she moves into her new apartment and senses a demon watching her every move, stalking her at every turn, she has no choice but to put her life in the hands of a dangerously sexy vampire. From the first whiff of Yvonne's intoxicating scent, Investigator Creed Preston knows his client has something to fear. Under Creed's protection, she will be drawn irresistibly in by his secrets and experience the sheer force of immortal desire. And not a moment too soon. For the evil hunting her isn't acting alone - and he won't stop until he claims her for his very own....

THE DEVIL, THE DEEP BLUE SEA... Psychologist Callie Carlson lives in the lush Florida Keys. Some call it paradise. Callie, a young woman who fears the sea, calls it hell. Now her brother has found a mysterious boat adrift off the coast-and has been charged with murdering its crew. He faces the--death penalty unless a desperate Callie can find a way to prove his innocence. AND DESIRE Former Navy SEAL Chase Mattingly lost his nerve after a near-fatal diving accident. Investigating for Callie is his chance to prove he still has guts. And a heart. But soon someone is trying to stop them both. And as a killer stalks by night, only an act of love and courage can save Callie and Chase: a dive to perilous depths where truth--or death--is waiting...

From New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee—a riveting new Conard County romance! Healing from bullet wounds and fleeing the bomber who shot her, FBI agent Erin Sanders refuses to play it safe. Driving west, she'll stay off the grid—until deputy sheriff Lance Conroe spoils her secret getaway. Taking her to his remote Wyoming home, the hunky lawman only hopes to protect her. Just what headstrong, untrusting Erin doesn't want. But when another showdown with the bomber looms and a shocking betrayal surfaces, Erin wants Lance...badly. It's time to get over her control and intimacy issues to indulge their dangerous attraction. Because her plan to catch the killer could cost them both their lives.

New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee returns to Conard County--where a stranger has moved to town... With a scar on his cheek and wounds on his soul, the only thing Allison McMann's new neighbor reveals is his name. But when a toxin kills some cattle and Allison is charged with finding its source, Jerrod Marquette appoints himself her protector. The ex-military man has the skills to keep her safe, yet Allison doesn't need--or wantt--his help. His midnight eyes see too much, his powerful body ignites feelings long buried. Even when she learns of the danger lurking in the mountains she tracks, Allison can't help feeling the greatest danger lies within her...in her white-hot lust for the mysterious outsider.

Nighthawk by Rachel LeeEsther Jackson needed Craig Nighthawk's protection—the father she'd helped put away for murder was now seeking her out. So against her reclusive nature, she welcomed the darkly handsome Nighthawk into her home, hoping he could keep her safe. Craig knew all about fear and isolation. After all, he was still being tried and convicted by the people of Conard County for a crime he hadn't committed. All he wanted was to be left alone. Until he met Esther and discovered in her loving arms a peace he would safeguard at any cost….The Return of Luke McGuire by Justine DavisLuke McGuire was everything shy Amelia Blair had been fascinated by as a girl but too terrified to go near. And now here she was, the only person in the whole town decent enough to give him the time of day, caring enough to stand up for him…. For his part, Luke didn't need the town's nasty stares to know that Amelia was off-limits. But then, reformed or not, he'd never been one to abide by the rules. He only hoped that the quiet beauty would fall for the man he had become instead of the one he used to be.

From New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Rachel Lee comes a sensual new series about mesmerizing vampire detectives and the love they discover, deep in the night… Jude Messenger felt the hunger deep inside him. From the moment he'd rescued Theresa Black from a late-night attack, he'd ached for things he knew he could never have. The touch of her skin. The taste of her blood. But if the vampire claimed her, one of them might not survive. So Jude did everything he could to make Terri stay away. But a demon stalked the sexy spitfire, and Jude had no choice but to protect a woman who created a longing inside him that could never be sated…. About the AuthorRachel Lee was hooked on writing by the age of twelve, and practiced her craft as she moved from place to place all over the United States. This New York Times bestselling author now resides in Florida and has the joy of writing full-time. Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.H e smelled her long before he saw her. A sweet, luscious smell wafted to him on the breeze, the kind of scent that raised his hunger to dangerous levels. He paused for a moment, invisible in the dark shadow of a building on a nighttime street dotted only infrequently with the yellow of street lamps.He gave himself some time to drink in the intoxicating scent, a few moments of masochistic torture because he knew he wouldn't heed the siren call to feed. He'd stopped heeding that call a long time ago, except for an occasional, harmless but necessary half-pint.Besides, he had found those willing to share, a few trustworthy humans who would allow him to feed in exchange for the sexual thrill.But this scent called to him, as only a few had over the centuries. He lifted his head, drinking it in, forgetting for a few seconds that he had work to do, a job to complete. For just a few seconds he allowed himself to remember how it had once been when he'd hunted freely, merely to satisfy himself.Then he shook himself out of the hunger, and closed off his needs. He had changed, times had changed, and practice made control easier, though no less painful.The job, he reminded himself. The address was only two blocks away. He moved freely, shadow to shadow, with a speed that would make him nearly invisible to all but the most perceptive. In this part of town there were no crowds to mingle with and thus hide among. The warehouse district was almost deserted and at night, only those with evil in mind dared to emerge after darkness claimed the street.Evil had brought him here.He was still half a block away from his target when he smelled the intoxicating scent again. But this time it was even more compelling because now it definitely held an overtone of fear.And fear was another siren call for his kind, a part he had come to loathe.He paused, torn. The evil he had come to deal with or the evil he sensed about to happen?A woman's cry pierced the night, making his decision for him. Forgetting the shadows for speed, he dashed toward the sound, the scent, moving now at a speed that rendered him invisible to human eyes.Three blocks to the east he found her. She stood surrounded by four punks, one of them holding a knife, every single one of them looking as if they enjoyed frightening her as much as one of his kind might. He could smell their evil intentions. And something else. Something he couldn't identify, but it disturbed him."Don't touch me," she demanded, taking an aggressive posture, as if she was willing to attack them. Little good it would do when she was outnumbered. "Don't. Take my money. Take my credit cards.""Hey, sweetie," said the guy with the knife, "what makes you think we want your money?"The others laughed. "Naw," one said, "she's got a better treasure than that."He could have, in less than a minute, killed all four of the thugs. Once he might have. But the sight of the frightened but feisty woman prevented him. While those four didn't deserve to live, neither did the woman they threatened deserve the nightmares he would leave her with if he savaged those men.He stepped forward so they could see him. "You don't want to do that." The Voice.They all hesitated, looking at him as if suddenly confused. The woman herself looked at him as if he were a savior. He knew better. She had no idea the kind of danger she might be in from him."Go," he said. "Go home now."Slowly, almost like zombies, the four men turned away from the woman and began to disperse."Go home now," he repeated with more force, and they began to run.The woman stood there, frozen, even though she should have responded to the Voice as well. Perplexing, but not the first time someone had been immune.She was dark-haired, petite. Even with his extraordinary night vision, however, he could not see the color of her eyes. Probably too dilated from adrenaline."How did you do that?" she asked, barely whispering. His acute hearing picked that up, too."Cowards are easy to intimidate," he answered, a half-truth.He walked toward her and she took a quick, stumbling step back. "Stay away."He stopped. "I'm not going to leave you here alone. Where do you live?""I'm not telling you that!"He almost sighed, but he could hardly blame her. "I am not leaving you here alone," he said again. He didn't want to use the Voice on her, didn't want to try it again even though it might not work. He avoided manipulating humans unless it was the only way."I'll get a cab.""Where?" A faint amusement curled his thin mouth. "Don't even suggest calling one. They won't come here at night."He saw her shoulders sag a bit. "How did you get here?" he asked, feeling his curiosity stir."None of your business!"Now he did sigh. "I have a car. I can take you home.""If you think I'm going to get into a car with you…"Not even centuries of practice could give him perfect patience. He had to get this piece of bait away from the predators that lurked for blocks around, and he couldn't go back to his investigation unless he made sure she was safe. Time was passing, dawn approaching steadily and inevitably. Limited time, limited patience, now two tasks instead of one for the short hours he had.He reached her so fast she gasped when he stood right in front of her. Then, utterly without compunction, he picked her up, hardly noticing her weight, certainly not slowed by it."I'm not leaving you here," he said yet again and began to stride toward his car, not as fast as he could because he didn't want to scare her any more, but fast enough."Let me go!"He should have just put her to sleep. "I can take you to your home, or take you to my office, but I am not leaving you here."Just a touch of the Voice. Just a hint, but it stilled her until they reached his car. So she wasn't completely impervious. Perhaps. Impossible to tell exactly what she was responding to.He had chosen his vehicle because it wouldn't attract attention in this neighborhood: a few years too old, dented, even rusted. Not a hood ornament or hubcap to steal."You can't do this," she said as he put her on her feet beside the car."I am doing it. My office or your home.""I don't want you to know where I live!""My office then. You'll like my assistant." He opened the passenger door for her.Still, she hesitated. "Your assistant?""Chloe Crandall," he said, seeking to create a sense of normalcy for her. "A bit strange for my taste, but a nice young lady all the same. Then you can argue with her about how you'll get safely home."Still stubborn, she glared at him. "Who are you?"He reached into his breast pocket, inside his long leather coat, and passed her his business card.Jude Messenger, Licensed Private Investigator, Messenger Investigations, Inc. Phone numbers, email, fax, but no website.She looked up from the card at him. "A private investigator?""Yes." Would she ever get into the car? At this rate he'd never get back here to check into his case. "Can I keep this?""Not only can you keep it, you can have a whole stack of them if you want. Leave them everywhere you go like breadcrumbs."At that, one corner of her mouth twitched upward. Some Rubicon had been crossed in her mind. At last she slid into the car. He closed the door behind her and forced himself to walk at human speed around to the driver's side.When he got behind the wheel, however, he gave her no further quarter. The tires squealed as he peeled away. As good as she smelled, he had to get her out of the confines of the car as quickly as possible. He couldn't afford a slip, even a minor one."Could you slow down, please?""No.""You'll get us killed!"He laughed. How could he not? "You're safer with me at any speed than you were back there with those guys. How did you get there?"Silence. Well, he had more important concerns. Let her keep her secrets.But then, hesitantly, she answered. "I was with a friend. She wanted to go to some clubs. I…ordinarily don't enjoy that, but she didn't want to go alone.""Wise.""Who was wise?" she asked. It almost sounded like a challenge."Both of you. Clubbing can be a bad scene. Going alone even worse. So let me guess. She met someone and there you were all alone."A sigh reached him in the darkness and with it the truly enticing scent of her breath. His hands tightened on the steering wheel."Yes," she said presently. "She met someone, and I decided to go home. This guy she introduced me to earlier seemed safe enough. She knew him.""I understand.""So when he offered to drive me, I said yes. But he came this way, and tried to.tried to." He didn't need her to finish. "You ran.""Yes.""That's a clear picture." He wondered if he should ask her who this guy was who tried to take advantage of her, then decided she'd probably get angry at him for interfering. People rarely appreciated offers of help they hadn't asked for.His hyperacute senses detected no heartbeats nearby at street level, at least none that weren't in the slow rhythm of sleep, so he ran a couple of red lights, certain no cops were near enough to see. He heard his passenger gasp, but he ignored it."Do you obey any laws?" she demanded."Not when they get in the way of saving lives.""My life isn't in danger anymore.""I'm not talking about you. I don't stroll that part of town without a reason.""Oh."He listened...

Like her journalism career, Liza Enders's sunny outlook has dimmed. A layoff, her move back home and a new low-paying teaching job have her thinking life couldn't be more unfair...or lonely. But when a sexy stranger turns up at the faculty tea, a spark of intrigue--and chemistry--reawakens Liza's investigative instincts...Special agent Max McKenny is not who he claims to be. While he testifies in a homegrown terrorism trial, it's safer that way. The last thing he needs is a nosy ex-reporter blowing his cover. But one look into Liza's inquisitive green eyes and Max can't help but wonder how much he's willing to risk just to hold her...or how he's going to protect her from a diabolical threat.

It's a night of triumph for museum curator Anna Lundgren, the opening of her first exhibition. But the acclaim quickly ends when a guard is murdered in the theft of a supposedly cursed jade dagger--and suspicion falls on Anna. Determined to prove her innocence, desperate to find the killer, Anna has nowhere to turn to for help...except to the man leading the police investigation. Cool-headed and street savvy, Detective Gil Garcia has seen all the incriminating evidence against Anna, yet instinct tells him she's innocent. If he's wrong, his career could be on the line. If he's right, then someone is orchestrating a sinister game of lies, manipulation, and death--and Anna may be the next to die.

A one-night stand between a SEAL and an air force major results in a holiday baby in New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee's new addition to the popular miniseries CONARD COUNTY: THE NEXT GENERATION! Honor, duty and loyalty drove Major Edith Clapton to risk her life flying Combat Search and Recovery in Afghanistan. Hunger, desire and lust drove her into the arms of Seth Hardin, a gorgeous navy SEAL she had airlifted to safety. Their epic one-night stand in the shadow of the Afghan mountains has left Edie facing the most important mission of her life: motherhood. After sharing her news, Edie is stunned by Seth's insistence on being a father to his child--and the bewildering feelings this practical stranger has stirred within her. This wasn't part of her life-in-the-navy plan! Should she flee back to military life for a desk job and single parenthood? Or give thanks for this unexpected family?

One Last MissionFor wounded army vet Liam O'Connor, trekking across the country is something he has to do for his best friend--he promised Chet he'd deliver one last letter to his wife if he didn't make it home. Fresh out of rehab for a traumatic brain injury that robbed him of his former life, Liam maintains one thought to keep him focused: make it to Sharon Majors.Even in her grief, Sharon is incredibly beautiful, and her heart boundless. She offers Liam a deal: stay and work on her fledgling ranch and they'll help each other heal. But too soon the former soldier realizes he's facing his most dangerous mission of all: he's falling for his best friend's wife.

New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee returns to Conard County with a supercharged romance! When hunters threaten local Wyoming wildlife, investigator Kel Westin vows to catch the perpetrators. But as he's sent to work undercover with game warden Desi Jenks, Kel finds himself caught off guard by his need to protect her, too. Something tells him both he and Desi are kept awake at night by pasts that won't let go. Desi trusts no one. That includes the sexy former army ranger living in her bunkhouse, posing as a poacher to bait the ring. As a dangerous group gathers in the mountains, she must put her life in Kel's hands, a move that will change their fragile, growing bond forever...

Harlequin Special Edition brings you three new titles for one great price, available now for a limited time only from July 1 to July 31! These are heartwarming, romantic stories about life, love and family. This Harlequin Special Edition bundle includes The Widow of Conard County by New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee, A Match for the Single Dad by Gina Wilkins and The Medic's Homecoming by Lynne Marshall.Look for 6 compelling new stories every month from Harlequin Special Edition!

n island of beauty becomes A GATEWAY TO TERROR... Few could argue that the exclusive island of San Martin is anything less than paradise. In this wealthy enclave, veterinarian Markie Cross has a thriving practice, but her almost psychic connection to animals has made human relationships -- especially with men -- harder to navigate. Until mystery, murder and something unfathomable shatter her world... People are dying strange, unexplained deaths. Island medical examiner Declan Quinn is stunned at the unearthly condition of the bodies, and he and Markie share a dark suspicion that something terrifying and impossible is at work here. Something that may not be human. As a sinister message becomes clearer, Markie and Dec race to understand the tragic history of this island paradise and unlock the true nature of the evil now descending. Because if they can't, Markie may become the next victim....

Revisit Conard County for heart-stopping suspense from New York Times bestselling author Rachel Lee After escaping an attacker who wanted her dead, Nora Loftis is forced to return to Conard County. She needs to heal; she just didn't expect to do it on Jake Madison's Wyoming ranch. The full-time cowboy and part-time police chief was her first love, her only love. And now, with her attacker on the loose, he's her only hope of survival. Like a vigilant sentry, Jake vows to protect her. Like a tender lover, his arms provide a haven, his kisses a promise. But Nora is a psychologist, and she knows the mind of her attacker. She knows he's coming for her…to finish what he started. About the AuthorRachel Lee was hooked on writing by the age of twelve, and practiced her craft as she moved from place to place all over the United States. This New York Times bestselling author now resides in Florida and has the joy of writing full-time. Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.When Nora Loftis had emerged from a roadside ditch, bloody and beaten, raped and tortured, dazed and half-crazed, she'd at least thought she had survived.Little did she realize that her battle for survival was hardly over.Three months later, still healing in so many ways, she arrived at the baggage carousel in the Denver airport to be greeted by one of the last people she ever wanted to see again.Jake Madison, larger than life, towering over six feet, built like a cheesecake dream, wearing jeans and a loden-green chamois shirt under a light jacket. His hair was still intensely dark, and his eyes were still that peculiar green, a color that seemed to be lit from within. If anything, the years had made him more attractive…. Stronger, broader, more like an oak than a sapling.And he was still one of the reasons she had avoided her hometown of Conard City. He was a big reason, but not the only reason.He saw her and nodded, but something about his eyes seemed to narrow.Well, she looked like hell, and he hated her anyway, and they had a history she would have preferred to utterly forget. Why wouldn't his eyes narrow? And why had her dad sent him of all people?She fought down an almost overwhelming urge to turn and run. But while she might need a place to lick her wounds, she had also developed some backbone, and she was damned if she would give him the satisfaction."Nora," he said when she approached. His voice had deepened, too. Everything about him had reached the fullness of manhood while she'd been gone."Jake." She hoped she sounded cool. Inside she felt as if nerves already stretched too tight had just stretched tighter still."Your dad asked me to get you," he said, explaining. "His car is acting up.""Thanks." Short and ungracious. Well, he didn't deserve any better from her, not after what he had done to her. She'd avoided him for twelve years and Conard City for ten. Now her choices had become limited to one.She turned to watch the carousel, where the first bags had begun to appear. Maybe she could pretend he wasn't even there."You won't find the town much changed," he remarked."I didn't think I would. It never changes.""Oh, things change," he replied calmly. "Lots of things."She let that lie. Bad enough that she had to come home without hearing cheery stories about how things had changed for the better. She wouldn't believe them anyway.He picked up her luggage for her, leaving her with only her rolling carry-on to tag along behind him out to the parking garage, where he stowed her bags in the back of his tan Jeep. Then she climbed into the passenger seat, looking straight ahead, thinking that if there was one thing she didn't need now, it was a couple of hours in the car with Jake Madison.He seemed to feel the same, surprisingly enough, and didn't offer any kind of casual conversation. Good, she thought. Good. Because she just plain wasn't up to it.The doctors had told her she would tire easily for weeks to come, and that she needed to conserve her energy for what was most important. Already she could feel her nerves letting go, simply because she couldn't maintain the tension. Not now, not for a while.After Jake paid the parking fee and pulled out onto the exit road, he spoke again. "I heard what happened.""I don't want to talk about it."A mile passed, then another, before he spoke again. "I'm just letting you know that people are talking."Surprise, surprise. Apparently that hasn't changed."He glanced at her. "Bitter now, too?""Maybe I have cause.""Maybe so." But he let it drop.Pointedly, she closed her eyes, not wanting to talk to him at all. Then, without warning, fatigue crashed down on her between one instant and the next. She fell soundly asleep before they'd made it all the way out of the suburbs of Denver, and she didn't wake until they were drawing near her home.The familiar state highway into Conard City carried Nora Loftis back too many years. Way too many years. It also carried her to a home she had vowed never to visit again.The wide expanses of ranch land—brown now as winter drew closer, tumbleweed snared in fences—still looked desolate. Had she ever seen the beauty out here? But the purpling mountains ahead were still beautiful, still drew her as mountains always had. She had missed them during her years working in Minneapolis. Gentler hills were just not the same.But the rest of it, she assured herself, she had not missed at all. Not the endless roads that seemed to go nowhere, not the outlying ranches or the few small subdivisions. And certainly not the main street, captured in an early twentieth century kind of amber, a mixture of archaeological finds left over from the 1880s to a few newer World War II era buildings. The town had enjoyed a number of booms and a few busts, and the last bust still lingered, a kind of genteel poverty for all but a handful, who managed to prosper anyway.Outside town, before she faced the sorrow of the main street, she saw a sign announcing the construction of a new ski resort. Another boom in the making, maybe, one that would change the character of the town yet again.It needed some changing.She hated coming back, but she had nowhere else to go. Not now.The speed limit lowered, taking them along a f lat stretch of road that boasted little but an occasional road-house. Closer to town, she saw the modernity of some new fast-food joints that didn't appear to be doing well. That much modernity had arrived here, too. Even with so few people and despite the closing of the semiconductor plant that had been this town's last boom. The ranchers hereabouts were barely enough to keep the place going."I saw it in the papers," her father had said when he phoned, the first words he'd spoken to her in a decade."Come home, girl." An offer made too late, but one she had been unable to refuse with her life in ashes all around her.What else could you do when the big bad world had treated you so horribly you were almost afraid to stick your nose out the door? What else could you do when you'd become famous—or infamous, depending—and the world wouldn't leave you alone to lick your wounds?He'd seen it in the papers. Even here. That meant Jake knew, too. All those sordid details.Her hands tightened into fists until her knuckles turned white and her fingers ached. She couldn't bring herself to look at Jake as he managed the town streets with the ease of familiarity.A sharp right turn, then a left, and they were on the main street, a veritable visual essay of the town's past, most of which seemed to have been a matter of aging as gracefully as possible.They drove past the hulks of Freitag's Mercantile on one side and the Lakota Hotel on the other. One busy and surviving, the other barely holding together as a sort of rooming house. Past her dad's pharmacy, and then past the courthouse square and the sheriff's office.Past Mahoney's saloon, with a history stretching back to the brief boom of the 1880s. No matter how good or bad the times, people always wanted drink. Even more so when times were bad.Then a sharp left turn onto her dad's street. Victorian houses, built on long narrow lots, lined the street, along with trees as old as the houses. People who had never lived here found it charming. It made Nora feel claustrophobic.And finally, Jake pulled into the driveway behind her dad's car, an old white Caddy he'd been nursing for so many years it was probably now an expensive collectible."Here we are," he said, as if she wouldn't know.Only then did Nora realize that she was shaking, physically and emotionally. Stop it, she told herself. Stop it.On joints that felt far older than her thirty years, she climbed out of the car, stiff and aching from the long drive.If her dad had seen it in the papers, so had everyone else in town.No escape.Jake pulled all three of her bags out of the back of his car and dragged them up onto the porch ahead of her.She climbed the front porch steps like a stranger instead of using the side door. Wood creaked beneath her weight, which was much less than even a few months ago. Like a stranger, she knocked, then put her fisted hands at her sides, waiting. She could almost feel eyes boring into her from the surrounding houses."See you around," Jake said. She turned her head, watching as he climbed into his Jeep and drove off. Leaving her alone with the rest of her past.Then the door opened and her dad faced her. The past ten years had taken a toll on him, too. Every one of them seemed to have etched itself deeply into his face, and his rotund figure had become lean. He regarded her steadily from blue eyes just like hers, shook his head a little."Come in, girl. It's getting chilly. I'm making breakfast."Breakfast for dinner. His favorite meal. He turned and walked toward the kitchen, so she followed. A kind of numbness filled her as she moved through familiar rooms, the typical "gunshot" design, from front room through bedrooms to kitchen and bath. Only one addition gave any privacy, and it had always been her bedroom. Probably would be again."Have a seat," he said, motioning to the small table with its cracked plastic top and four chairs that were older than she was.She sat and let him pour her a steaming mug of coffee. He placed it in front of her and she reached for it, realizing she needed some kind of warmth and fortification for whatever was coming....

"If he was murdered, you're the loose end."Waitress Haley Martin has made a small, safe life for herself: no big surprises, no falling in love. In one night, that calm world is shattered. A truck driver is dead, a sexy former military cop needs her help to solve the murder, and she might be next on the hit list.There's something big going down in this sleepy county. Buck Devlin needs to keep Haley close—and he's had worse cover stories than pretending to be in love with a beautiful blonde. But the more danger they expose, the harder it is to remember their love story is just a cover….

In this story from New York Times bestseller Rachel Lee, two investigators must learn to play nice before it's too late.Detective Cade Bankston never had any luck with female partners. So when he's assigned to work with feisty, raven-haired DeeJay Dawkins, he isn't pleased at all. Posing as a married couple, the investigators must team up to catch a killer. That is, if they don't kill each other first.Putting their mission first proves tricky as mutual disdain evolves into mutual desire. But distraction is not an option. The killer who seemingly vanished five years prior has returned to Conard County, Wyoming, to finish what he started. And he just set his sights on two new victims.