The Schoolmarm and the Deputy — Abigail Armani

The year is 1880, and the feisty Ruby Stanford has one objective: clear her pa's name and then get as far away from Crow Creek as she can. But when Jim Sibley rides into Crow Creek he rapidly turns her world upside down with his brooding good looks and blue-eyed charm. She learns he is Deputy Sheriff from a neighbouring town, come to track down the same gang of bandits she knows is responsible for her pa's death - and she insists on accompanying him on his quest. He refuses of course, and as their mutual attraction flares, they also argue. Ruby is used to getting her own way ... but so is the handsome Deputy Sheriff ... and he soon asserts his authority and discipline. It isn't long before Ruby finds herself over his lap getting her bottom spanked for her sass and disobedience. However, a little spanking doesn't dampen her determination and she disobeys yet again - and armed with her pa's old rifle and more luck than skill, manages to shoot at a couple of bandits.

Banditos, subterfuge, deceit, romance and passion ... the folks of Crow Creek have a lot to talk about as events unravel, and at the heart of it all is the developing relationship between Ruby and her handsome cowboy. Jim never expected to fall in love but finds himself smitten by the flame-haired schoolmarm who has stolen his heart. As for Ruby, when Jim sets her rear on fire, it also ignites a passion she never knew existed. Life is good, especially when Jim's sister comes to stay, and Ruby has no desire to leave Crow Creek now that she and her man have set things to right.

When Jim asks Ruby to marry him, neither of them know that trouble is waiting close by...