Allie Siders is desperate to help her 5-year-old daughter, Betsy speak again. But with a stalker out for revenge, all Allie can think about is the safety that awaits them at the peaceful Bluebird Ranch, nestled deep in Texas Hill country. The ranch is a sanctuary for abused horses and troubled youth. …

In this book, author Colleen Coble takes her characters’ deep into a mix of mystery and suspense as well as relational issues. The book opens with the stalker in Allie’s residence taunting her. In a panic, Allie grabs Betsy and runs to the only place she can think to hide that also promises safety. The only problems: she has no money, nobody expects her, and she can’t tell anybody what’s really going on for fear the stalker will find her.

The book is filled with romantic twists that kept me turning the pages as much as the suspense did. She’s been so focused on surviving since her husband died, that she hasn’t had time to fully grieve. Romance is the last thing she is looking for, especially when the only men around are ranch hands and Rich Bailey, the handsome foreman. Everything conspires to keep Allie isolated, yet for the sake of her daughter she will do things she never imagined.

The tension is high as the stalker continues to strip Allie of everything important to her and strange events occur at the ranch. Just when it doesn’t seem like things can get worse, Allie faces a custody battle that could destroy Betsy.

The setting is rich. I could picture the isolated Texas setting, and almost taste the grit in my mouth. The characters are richly drawn and detailed, with even the supporting cast causing me to root for them.

This was a book I couldn’t put down. Fortunately, I read it on a plane so I had uninterrupted hours to inhale it.

If you like romantic suspense, this book is well worth the time and money.