Secret to Hold — Mary Hagen

Before Jessica Bradley arrives at the McPherson Ranch to teach two children, she has been advised to return to her home with the warning her new employer has murdered the previous teacher.

In spite of her resolve to stay away from McPherson, she is drawn to him, his kindness to his children, his support of her in her teaching duties, and his determination to keep her at the ranch even though her past may cost her job.

As she falls in love with him, she determines to get to the bottom of the ugly rumor threatening his future on his ranch, certain he did not murder anyone. She faces prejudice, hatred, and the threat of bodily harm to herself and one of the children she teaches as she searches for the truth.