Desperate Hearts

Emma Radcliffe is on the run from her abusive stepfather, and her destination is the tiny gold-rush town of Alder, Mont. Born a lady and raised in wealth back in New York City, Emma leaves it all behind to become a teacher named Elizabeth Wainright. The last thing she wants is to catch the eye of Mitch Brady, the big, strong local lawman. A vigilante with his own ideas about justice and a strong defender of women, Mitch sees Emma and falls in love, hard. He shows in every way possible that she can trust him, and makes his intentions quite clear. Emma also falls in love, not just with Mitch but also with the independent and fiercely loyal townspeople and the gritty wilderness around her. Alder is the quintessential Wild West town where everyone has a past and no one asks any questions. This Western historical is chock-full of danger, with families set on a vendetta, the threat of Emma’s stepfather, and the daily demands of Mitch’s job, but Emma is no wilting lily, proving she is a match for Mitch in every way. Agent: Maura Kye-Casella, Don Congdon Associates. (Sept.)