Maiden's Hope — Cheryl A. Cornell

Billie Ferris always knew she would inherit Maiden's Hope, her father's family farm. She spent every summer learning the intricacies of the business. They'd ride the boundary fences with Aunt Willa impressing upon her what a treasure the farm truly was. When her aunt passes unexpectedly, she's crushed by emotions and, ultimately, the responsibility. Still adjusting to the loss, strange things begin to happen at the farm. Nuisances turn serious when her vehicle is tampered with and she has an accident. Waking in pain, she sees Ward Castel, her childhood nemesis and first crush, has come back to help. While his military training will be helpful, Billie can't help but bristle at his tactics. Billie and Ward are both still attracted, and she hopes they'll finally have an adult sexual relationship. That will have to wait until they discover who is trying to run her off her land and why.