Hearts Ignite in the Desert — Julianna Douglas

Can an elderly, abandoned Golden Retriever unite two hearts through a common purpose that ignites into a passionate love?After experiencing more than his fair share of war and violence, Gunnery Sergeant Robbie Garcia is ready for a normal civilian life. Recently discharged from the Marines, he returns to Phoenix, searching for something rewarding to do with his life, while also hoping to find a wife and start a family. During a visit with his lifelong best friend, Robbie spots a picture of his friend’s younger sister. The girl he remembers as an awkward teenager has blossomed into a beautiful, determined woman with impressive plans for the future, who piques his interest and kindles his desire. Could the woman of his dreams have been right in front of him all these years?Ever since she was a teenager, Gabriela Sanchez has dreamed of two things: dedicating her life to working with animals and marrying Robbie Garcia. She achieved the first when she became a vet tech and was hired by Loving Hearts, and now she wants nothing more than to open her own senior dog sanctuary. However, since Robbie never saw her as anything other than his best friend’s annoying little sister, the second has always been out of her reach. Over the years, Gabby tried to forget Robbie by dating other guys, but her heart never stopped loving him from afar. When they reunite, will all of her fantasies finally be fulfilled?