The Women of Manatee Bay Series by Jessica Nelson

When rule-bending PI Rachel McCormick stumbles across evidence that not only incriminates the town mayor of corrupt dealings but endangers her sister’s welfare, she's determined to put the politician behind bars. She doesn't count on straitlaced cop Grant Harkness—a rumored lady’s man—getting in her way. Not only does he warn her off the case, but he takes her heart into custody with his surprisingly compassionate nature and endearing soft spot for a cat named Helga... moreWhen rule-bending PI Rachel McCormick stumbles across evidence that not only incriminates the town mayor of corrupt dealings but endangers her sister’s welfare, she's determined to put the politician behind bars. She doesn't count on straitlaced cop Grant Harkness—a rumored lady’s man—getting in her way. Not only does he warn her off the case, but he takes her heart into custody with his surprisingly compassionate nature and endearing soft spot for a cat named Helga. Burned by an ex-fiancé and jaded by the unseemly aspects of her job, Rachel tries to ignore the bad boy’s claims that he’s been redeemed by the God she stopped trusting long ago. But love is not so easily dismissed. Rachel is torn between the bitterness that has fueled her life and the man whose passion stokes within her a new fire, one which could burn away the ashes of her past if only she could learn to trust again. less

Sky-diving instructor Maggie McCormick has a reputation in her small town for living on the wild side. What people don't know is how her painful choices have whittled away at her soul. Determined to be done with romantic relationships, she's ready to focus on a deeper relationship with God. She wants to prove she's different and dreams of opening a home for young mothers... moreSky-diving instructor Maggie McCormick has a reputation in her small town for living on the wild side. What people don't know is how her painful choices have whittled away at her soul. Determined to be done with romantic relationships, she's ready to focus on a deeper relationship with God. She wants to prove she's different and dreams of opening a home for young mothers. When she stumbles across the perfect property, things seem to be going well until she discovers the owner is none other than her good-looking pastor. And he's refusing to sell. Pastor Joe O'Reilly has big plans for his church and they don't include selling his inheritance to free-spirited, motorcyclist Maggie McCormick. When her desire to help young mothers inspires him to assist her in the quest for land, he doesn't expect to start falling for her. But Maggie guards dark secrets that could destroy his faith in their love. Can Maggie trust Joe to love her despite her past, especially when she sees forever in his eyes? less