The Marine — Cheryl Reavis

Semper Fi
Newly widowed Grace James knows she's at a crossroads. Raised by her aunt, she spent her life playing the role of the perpetual 'good girl' -- never rocking the boat, always fitting in. And where did that get her? She had an unhappy marriage, and now she's singlehandedly raising two strong-willed teenaged daughters who have Trouble written all over them. Just once, Grace wished she had a different life. What would it feel like to be irresponsible, free ... wild?

Sergeant Josh Caven is a Marine, through and through. He's also a single dad who's going on deployment again -- soon! He has to come up with a family care plan for his little girl, and he's desperate. He tells himself that's the only reason he shows up on Grace's doorstep. Because maybe she could help -- if she's the mother who gave him up for adoption all those years ago...

Sergeant Joseph Kinlaw is also a Marine, though he's retired now. But once a Marine, always a Marine. He put in his time overseas, and now he's there for those that come home broken, mentally or physically. He's a loner, his wounded warriors his only family. Until he meets Grace ... and realizes she needs him as much as he needs her.