Trusting the Cowboy — Theresa Stillwagon

Rose thought she was finally safe…until her past came back to haunt her.

It's been three years since Rose Wilson escaped a controlling, abusive man and arrived at the historical town of Winter Creek, Montana, accepting a job as the town's schoolmarm. She's at peace here, among her newfound friends and an assortment of rowdy, interfering ghosts. She can finally begin to heal.

When Mark Craine rode into town a year ago, he immediately caught her eye. But Rose kept him at arm's length, afraid to get too close, afraid his goodness was all a lie. However, the more she got to know him, the more she sensed he was a different type of man than her ex. Mark is honorable and kind. Still, it's difficult for her to let go of her past and trust again.

A stolen kiss in the middle of the town's one-room schoolhouse gives her the push she needs to move forward with him. She realizes she wants -- needs -- more than just his friendship. She needs his love. The schoolmarm wants to take a chance on the tall, dark cowboy.

When her abuser's 'enforcers' show up in Winter Creek, her newfound freedom is threatened. But she's a different woman now, stronger, and she will not allow them to intimidate her. But when her abuser himself shows up and they kidnap her, will she have the strength to get away, or will her ex win?

Content Warning: contains sensual sex, strong language, and some violence