Books

HILL COUNTRY CHRISTMAS
Steeple Hill Love Inspired Historicals
October 2008

Delia Keller is a preacher's granddaughter in Llano Crossing, a small hill country town in Texas. All she has known is poverty and taking care of her grandfather since her mother died and her father's wanderlust led him out west, but she is content—though she thinks she'd be happier if the Charles Ladley, the mayor's handsome son would return her feelings. Then her grandfather dies and she's left penniless, and a dangerous-looking stranger brings her news that her father has died in a mining accident. She's now heiress to a fortune.

Before the Civil War, Jude Tucker served his Lord as a preacher in Tennessee, but after what he'd seen and heard—and did—in the war, Jude no longer feels worthy. It is he who brings Delia news of her newfound wealth. Delia feels an instant connection with Jude, but he convinces her he's not worthy of her either.

No longer just a poor "churchmouse," Delia has no trouble attracting Charles Ladley and learning to spend money she's never had before. Jude, who'd planned to tell Delia the news and ride on, somehow can't seem to make himself leave. Fighting his own growing feelings for her, he knows that Ladley is the worse possible man for Delia. He's also struggling against the call of the Lord to serve Him again.

But it's not until Jude uncovers a plot that would ruin Llano Crossing that two wounded hearts learn to trust their love for each other and for God, and to serve Him all the rest of their days.