From the New York Times bestselling author of Redeeming Love comes a masterful historical Western about a young woman faced with an impossible choice: the loving father who raised her but lied to her or the man who has won her heart but holds revenge in his own.

Northern California, 1875: For as long as she can remember, Emmaline Wainwright has taken care of others. She keeps house for her father, Sheriff Amos Wainwright, and spends most days gardening, sewing, and tending to the needs of her neighbors. It’s a good life, one she knows Amos sacrificed greatly to provide for her. He would be happier if Emma were married, but she is content to remain single.

Then a rugged stranger arrives in their peaceful valley. Clay Barrister is nothing like the men in Thurmond, and within just a few days, an undeniable chemistry sparks between Emma and the gunslinger. Their acquaintance quickly deepens into more. But what Emma doesn’t know is that there is a dark and violent past between Clay and her father, a history Amos has hidden from her. The first encounter between the two men reignites a long-held quest for vengeance, quickly spiraling out of control and leaving none of them unscathed.

Devastated, Emma must find the strength to stand between the two men she loves. Only a bold act of courage, and a mercy neither Clay nor Amos believes they deserve, can heal what has been broken. But when an unexpected danger threatens from beyond Thurmond’s borders, forgiveness may come at a cost far greater than anyone is prepared to pay.