Healing Hearts Series by Ginny Sterling

Dear John… For teacher Lily Hogan, those words would come to mean so much. She knew that giving back to the community brought joy into people’s lives. When her fourth-grade class writes letters to the military overseas in Afghanistan, she takes up her own pen and leads her students by example – writing a letter to an unknown soldier. CPO John Griffin and his K-9 dog, Radar, have been through so much together over the last several years... moreDear John… For teacher Lily Hogan, those words would come to mean so much. She knew that giving back to the community brought joy into people’s lives. When her fourth-grade class writes letters to the military overseas in Afghanistan, she takes up her own pen and leads her students by example – writing a letter to an unknown soldier. CPO John Griffin and his K-9 dog, Radar, have been through so much together over the last several years. Sniffing out bombs, searching the hills and mentoring his team, he feels so alone and unsure of his future- until a letter reminds him that there’s more to life in this world he’s protecting. Simple words, a kind gesture and feeling that he isn’t forgotten out there in the desert, compels him to write back. Before long, he finds himself looking forward to the care packages and letters from his pen-pal halfway across the world. With every letter and every word, they begin to develop a friendship and wonder what the other person is truly like? Major life changes are scary enough as it is - but is it possible to fall in love with someone before you’ve even laid eyes upon them? Can the magic of the season bring the sweetest gift of all? The Lawkeepers is a multi-author series alternating between historical westerns and contemporary westerns featuring law enforcement heroes that span multiple agencies and generations. Join bestselling authors Jenna Brandt, Lorana Hoopes and many others as they weave captivating, sweet and inspirational stories of romance and suspense between the lawkeepers -- and the women who love them. The Lawkeepers is a world like no other; a world where lawkeepers and heroes are honored with unforgettable stories, characters, and love. ** Note: Each book in The Lawkeepers series is a standalone book, in a mini-series, and you can read them in any order. less

Ava Richardson is a new mother with a child she never expected. When a nightmare event rips her from a fairytale life, she’s devastated and frightened to move on. What she never expected was to find solace in a pen-pal, pouring out her feelings to a stranger halfway across the world. Colin Wilkes is a weary, reckless soldier in Afghanistan. Saddled with guilt at causing his best friend to lose his leg, he awaits whatever fate he has coming... moreAva Richardson is a new mother with a child she never expected. When a nightmare event rips her from a fairytale life, she’s devastated and frightened to move on. What she never expected was to find solace in a pen-pal, pouring out her feelings to a stranger halfway across the world. Colin Wilkes is a weary, reckless soldier in Afghanistan. Saddled with guilt at causing his best friend to lose his leg, he awaits whatever fate he has coming. Unexpectedly receiving an email from a strange woman looking for anything to help her get through the day- he can’t help but feel intrigued and sympathetic to her pleas. When Colin finds himself suddenly back in the States and face to face with his mysterious pen-pal, can a friendship that began over the internet solidify into something more? Can one shattered soul help mend another? Can they be saved by remembering just how to love someone? less

Cora Dillion thrives on control. After being abandoned and homeless on the streets, it had taken everything in her to climb back to a life she recognized. A self-proclaimed workaholic, she remains focused to prevent anyone from disrupting the existence she’s built for herself. When she receives a flurry of emails from a soldier, she realizes that the man pouring out his soul could be dangerous to her structured world… and her heart. Mike Cooper lived for the moment... moreCora Dillion thrives on control. After being abandoned and homeless on the streets, it had taken everything in her to climb back to a life she recognized. A self-proclaimed workaholic, she remains focused to prevent anyone from disrupting the existence she’s built for herself. When she receives a flurry of emails from a soldier, she realizes that the man pouring out his soul could be dangerous to her structured world… and her heart. Mike Cooper lived for the moment. Reckless and arrogant- that was the image he presented to his buddies in the barracks. Deep down inside, he needed a friend to keep him focused and was desperately afraid of the nightmarish world he existed in. Envious of the relationships around him, Mike puts his very heart on the line hoping that Cora will be the one to snatch it up. Will Cora realize that Mike could be the very man she needs to come out of her shell? Can both of their hearts find strength in each other’s weaknesses? Will the spirit of the season remind them both how to remember joy? less

Lucy Reyes didn’t need anyone interfering with her life as an investigative reporter. She’d found out the hard way that having to depend on someone made you weak and left you vulnerable. When she overhears a private conversation that leaves her feeling sorry for an unknown soldier, she takes up the mantle and begins writing the stranger who’d been betrayed. Jamie Post had always known the direction of his life... moreLucy Reyes didn’t need anyone interfering with her life as an investigative reporter. She’d found out the hard way that having to depend on someone made you weak and left you vulnerable. When she overhears a private conversation that leaves her feeling sorry for an unknown soldier, she takes up the mantle and begins writing the stranger who’d been betrayed. Jamie Post had always known the direction of his life. He had a fiancée back home and was working diligently to be a strong provider until he discovers that Annabelle’s loyalty lies elsewhere - in someone else’s arms. Jamie takes what comfort he can in purging all his thoughts and emotions to a stranger on the other side of the world, when suddenly Lucy materializes on base in Afghanistan in jeopardy. Can Lucy tackle a job in the middle of a warzone while fighting the feelings inside of her? Will Jamie discover that letting down his guard means letting someone back into his heart? Can fate intervene, bringing these two hearts together in a world torn apart? less

When one door closes, another one opens... Leia Ketch has been through more than any one person should ever experience. An untimely demise, starting over anew, and having to rely on herself has all been a brutal education in the game of life. Putting on a brave face and trying to remain strong, she gives in to her loneliness and replies to a stranger’s email as a favor to a friend.Jason Hody is caught off-guard when his former chief calls in an unexpected favor... moreWhen one door closes, another one opens... Leia Ketch has been through more than any one person should ever experience. An untimely demise, starting over anew, and having to rely on herself has all been a brutal education in the game of life. Putting on a brave face and trying to remain strong, she gives in to her loneliness and replies to a stranger’s email as a favor to a friend.Jason Hody is caught off-guard when his former chief calls in an unexpected favor. He knows that he’s an obnoxious, playful, and outgoing—but it’s a mask. There’s so much more to the soldier hidden deep inside. Emailing some woman as a favor causes a blip on his internal radar, but something about her sparks an interest he can’t resist. Can they develop a friendship to fill in the missing pieces of their hearts? Does this attempt at matchmaking turn awry? Could opposites truly attract despite being thousands of miles apart? less

Marigold Riley always enjoyed spinning negative events into something positive, no matter how bad things got. She’s chipper, upbeat, outgoing, savoring every moment as a chance to grow and thrive, just like her floral shop. She was envious of the love she saw her friends shared, realizing that she would need to pursue her own chances for love by writing the mysterious Ben Watson. Ben Watson was a no-nonsense guy with little tolerance for drama… just like his dog, Paladin... moreMarigold Riley always enjoyed spinning negative events into something positive, no matter how bad things got. She’s chipper, upbeat, outgoing, savoring every moment as a chance to grow and thrive, just like her floral shop. She was envious of the love she saw her friends shared, realizing that she would need to pursue her own chances for love by writing the mysterious Ben Watson. Ben Watson was a no-nonsense guy with little tolerance for drama… just like his dog, Paladin. He’s driven, hardworking, and well respected by his peers for his clinical analysis of a bad situation. When Ben receives an unexpected care package from Marigold, he’s intrigued and inexplicably drawn to her radiant personality. Will Ben’s brooding personality dim the effervescent light in Marigold’s soul? Could two opposites have a chance - even miles apart? Perhaps loving her will guide him down a path to happiness that he’s only dreamed of? less

Can the fallen be redeemed?Tabitha Mason wants a second chance at love. She’s seen the handsome soldier several times in the past and wishes he would just notice her for once. Nothing has been easy or gone her way, including trying to get the handsome soldier’s attention, but when fate steps in, she realizes that this is her moment to shine.Brandon Tobin wants a chance at life... moreCan the fallen be redeemed?Tabitha Mason wants a second chance at love. She’s seen the handsome soldier several times in the past and wishes he would just notice her for once. Nothing has been easy or gone her way, including trying to get the handsome soldier’s attention, but when fate steps in, she realizes that this is her moment to shine.Brandon Tobin wants a chance at life. His friends are getting married, finding their special someone, and settling down, while he is still serving in the Afghani desert. He’s proud to serve his country, but when he’s captured, the nightmares are more than he can handle.Can Tabitha see through the pain, rescuing the man she’s always cared for? Can Tobin trust their love to keep all the terrifying memories at bay?Note: Trigger warning. This book deals with PTSD and has a violent scene*** These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less

Annika Smithson is on a mission of mercy as a midwife. In this foreign world, surrounded by her mother’s people, the need for help was the same no matter the language. She finds herself in a world on the brink of war. As she helps deliver a child, the emotions rolling within her handsome protector makes her heart ache for the shattered soldier.Joel Parker is devastated. Losing a friend and coworker under his watch was more than he could bear... moreAnnika Smithson is on a mission of mercy as a midwife. In this foreign world, surrounded by her mother’s people, the need for help was the same no matter the language. She finds herself in a world on the brink of war. As she helps deliver a child, the emotions rolling within her handsome protector makes her heart ache for the shattered soldier.Joel Parker is devastated. Losing a friend and coworker under his watch was more than he could bear. Everything in him wanted to tear the world around him asunder to find Tobin, assuaging the guilt festering within him. The nightmares would never stop, nor could he ever forgive himself. So how can the breathtaking and mysterious woman before him justify being so kind as to help the enemy?Can seeing the world through Annika’s kind eyes bring a deeper understanding and reminder of what they are fighting for? Could finding forgiveness within himself open his heart to a chance at love? Will she be able to love the man before her, tasked with the hardest job of all?***These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less

Dr. Maura Cambridge was up to her eyeballs in student loans. When the opportunity emerges to wipe the slate clean by participating in a contest, who was she to say no? A wild adventure and a chance to escape before adulting in the ‘real world’ seems ideal… until she was partnered with the brooding soldier who was scowling at her.Jeremy Hood had a bone to pick with everyone, including his skittish teammate. Labeling the world-weary soldier as sour or jaded didn’t seem to be the right description... moreDr. Maura Cambridge was up to her eyeballs in student loans. When the opportunity emerges to wipe the slate clean by participating in a contest, who was she to say no? A wild adventure and a chance to escape before adulting in the ‘real world’ seems ideal… until she was partnered with the brooding soldier who was scowling at her.Jeremy Hood had a bone to pick with everyone, including his skittish teammate. Labeling the world-weary soldier as sour or jaded didn’t seem to be the right description. Everyone has a story and secrets, but when they become too much to handle for even him? Could a change of scenery and a pinch of destiny be just what the doctor ordered?*** These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less

Heaven Smith knew what fear, courage, and faith were, because of the hand dealt to her. One fateful night changed her entire future and outlook on life. She never forgot the unexpected kindness shown to her all those years ago, clinging to the hopes that people were decent on the inside. It had taken long enough to extract herself out of a terrible relationship, only to fall for the one person she never expected, Ezra, stationed in Afghanistan with her ex-husband... moreHeaven Smith knew what fear, courage, and faith were, because of the hand dealt to her. One fateful night changed her entire future and outlook on life. She never forgot the unexpected kindness shown to her all those years ago, clinging to the hopes that people were decent on the inside. It had taken long enough to extract herself out of a terrible relationship, only to fall for the one person she never expected, Ezra, stationed in Afghanistan with her ex-husband.Ezra Hopkins was sick of watching loved ones destroy themselves. He’d seen first-hand what alcohol could do to a family, forcing him and his sister to begin again. Now, several years later, he discovers the one person who has haunted his dreams, has been abandoned by a man Ezra despises.A chance encounter, a secret wish, and a leap of faith bring together two broken people who yearn for something more together in a way they never expected, delivering a second chance at love.Trigger warning - this book's character development deals with some past traumas and issues that may be quite emotional but will finish with a happily ever after that is touching.*** These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less

Shame and Betrayal…Tyler Smith made a lot of mistakes in his past that have come back to haunt him in ways he never expected… but falling for Samantha wasn’t one of them.Hope and Redemption…Samantha Weaver knew a bully when she saw one—and just how to handle him—until she glimpses another side to the obstinate, gorgeous man.Love, liberty, and a little trust go a long way to mend old wounds... moreShame and Betrayal…Tyler Smith made a lot of mistakes in his past that have come back to haunt him in ways he never expected… but falling for Samantha wasn’t one of them.Hope and Redemption…Samantha Weaver knew a bully when she saw one—and just how to handle him—until she glimpses another side to the obstinate, gorgeous man.Love, liberty, and a little trust go a long way to mend old wounds.***These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less

Keller Wright—Soldier, playboy, and devout bachelor.He didn’t believe in hanging around a woman long enough to get her phone number, much less put a ring on her finger! As another of his teammates falls for a girl back home, perhaps maybe there is something to this ‘love thing’ after all?Julia Lane—Librarian, marathoner, and definitely not interested in Keller!Men are trouble and there was a reason she avoided them... moreKeller Wright—Soldier, playboy, and devout bachelor.He didn’t believe in hanging around a woman long enough to get her phone number, much less put a ring on her finger! As another of his teammates falls for a girl back home, perhaps maybe there is something to this ‘love thing’ after all?Julia Lane—Librarian, marathoner, and definitely not interested in Keller!Men are trouble and there was a reason she avoided them. After being rejected, having her heart broken, and cheated on… she was about as jaded as a girl could get! When the handsome soldier flirts with her, she turns him down flat, laughing at the stunned expression on his face.Now that the chase is on, would it actually be so bad to get caught? What happens if the ‘bad boy’ is actually the best man she’s ever met?*** These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone, but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less

Micah Tarrant knew it was better to be alone than to add yet another disappointment to the long list he already had staining his soul. A family full of military men and women, he had quite a name to live up to - so why was being selected to go to Alaska of all places? Feeling rejected, already at his lowest point, the cheerful pilot flirting with him was almost more than he could bear... moreMicah Tarrant knew it was better to be alone than to add yet another disappointment to the long list he already had staining his soul. A family full of military men and women, he had quite a name to live up to - so why was being selected to go to Alaska of all places? Feeling rejected, already at his lowest point, the cheerful pilot flirting with him was almost more than he could bear.Piper Cameron made these flights all the time for a little extra money, but nothing prepared her for arrogant soldier heaving morosely her airplane. He obviously wanted nothing to do with her, nor would he give her a chance to change his mind.A little turbulence, a lot of teasing, and an unexpected proposal… how could she ever say no to the chance to show him the beauty found in this rugged wilderness, her world, and within her heart?*** These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less

Treasuring the feeling of pregnancy, all good things must come to an end at some point – despite a nervous mom’s wishes.Lily and John have gone through many things to get to this point, but nothing can ever prepare you for the instant you lay eyes on your child for the first time.* * *This is a short story set in the Healing Hearts Sweet Romance series and does not stand alone... moreTreasuring the feeling of pregnancy, all good things must come to an end at some point – despite a nervous mom’s wishes.Lily and John have gone through many things to get to this point, but nothing can ever prepare you for the instant you lay eyes on your child for the first time.* * *This is a short story set in the Healing Hearts Sweet Romance series and does not stand alone. It should be read after Remember Home and is a little bit of emotional tenderness dealing with pregnancy, childbirth, and that precious time that follows for the Griffin family. less

Even lies told with the best intentions come back to haunt you… Gideon King knew better than to trust anything said by his unwanted pen pal. He almost fell into the oldest trap known to man once before and narrowly escaped his ex-girlfriend’s deceit. The temptation of taking down a well-known liar among the soldiers was almost too good to resist!Annabelle Lawson paid dearly for her web of stories told during a time of sheer desperation... moreEven lies told with the best intentions come back to haunt you… Gideon King knew better than to trust anything said by his unwanted pen pal. He almost fell into the oldest trap known to man once before and narrowly escaped his ex-girlfriend’s deceit. The temptation of taking down a well-known liar among the soldiers was almost too good to resist!Annabelle Lawson paid dearly for her web of stories told during a time of sheer desperation. Death, an unwanted pregnancy, and a tremendous mistake left her grasping at straws. Driving away any source of support at her lowest point, she ended up regretting every word uttered… especially now.When a broken, scared woman has nothing left to lose - meets a bitter, jaded man that is afraid of being hurt again… will love conquer all or are some scars just too deep?***These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone, but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less

Timing is everything – isn’t it?When labor begins, the goal for most new parents is to get to the hospital quickly… but what if Mother Nature has other plans?What do you do?* * *This is a short story set in the Healing Hearts Sweet Romance series and does not stand alone. It should be read after Remember Peace and is a little bit of emotional tenderness dealing with relationships, childbirth, and that precious time that follows for the Tarrant family.

Trust no one…Everett Mitchell knew from experience that you couldn’t depend on anyone but yourself. Jaded, bitter, frustrated, he was in charge of the team and responsible for their safety. But when he tries to bond with them, agreeing to take a pen pal like the other soldiers, he finds Whitney is a bit more than he bargained for!Just believe…Whitney Oliver made a friend everywhere she went, or at least tried, but the ornery soldier writing her letters sure was taxing... moreTrust no one…Everett Mitchell knew from experience that you couldn’t depend on anyone but yourself. Jaded, bitter, frustrated, he was in charge of the team and responsible for their safety. But when he tries to bond with them, agreeing to take a pen pal like the other soldiers, he finds Whitney is a bit more than he bargained for!Just believe…Whitney Oliver made a friend everywhere she went, or at least tried, but the ornery soldier writing her letters sure was taxing. Everything was bitter, negative, and cranky… so she expected him to decline her offer to spend Christmas here with her.A little magic, a sprinkle of hope, and an unexpected kiss under the mistletoe just might be what her grumpy scrooge in camo needs to warm his stony heart.***These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less

Jealous of a fairytale…Matt Lawson knew there was no Happily Ever After. He had seen happiness die several times over the last few years, always leaving a trail of tears from the pain left behind. There was no magic wand, no princess in another castle… but an unexpected plea caught him completely off guard.Discovering a prince…Lucia Campbell was envious of the sudden group of teachers at the school she worked at getting married recently... moreJealous of a fairytale…Matt Lawson knew there was no Happily Ever After. He had seen happiness die several times over the last few years, always leaving a trail of tears from the pain left behind. There was no magic wand, no princess in another castle… but an unexpected plea caught him completely off guard.Discovering a prince…Lucia Campbell was envious of the sudden group of teachers at the school she worked at getting married recently. After being abandoned by her husband, she certainly wasn’t looking for love. She just wanted someone to vent to, someone to talk to, and a noble role model for her son to admire… safely from a distance!Can our bold warrior win the heart of a damsel who’s not in distress… but can’t live without him?*** These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less

Daniel Reed watched with envy as other soldiers around him were falling in love, getting married over the years to their pen-pals - but not him, never him. That would require the introverted soldier to hold a conversation, and he just didn’t have it within him… or did he? Bridget was certain her Prince Charming would never show up on her doorstep... moreDaniel Reed watched with envy as other soldiers around him were falling in love, getting married over the years to their pen-pals - but not him, never him. That would require the introverted soldier to hold a conversation, and he just didn’t have it within him… or did he? Bridget was certain her Prince Charming would never show up on her doorstep. Why should he? She was an overweight school nurse that loved her cats, a hearty meal, and writing her pen pal… until something changed inexplicably between them. If Daniel was afraid to make the first step, then maybe she would? But when he’s injured... What do you do when everything you hold dear is being questioned at every turn? less

Coming soon!

Eric Morrison and his bomb-sniffing dog, Trigger, worked in tandem to make sure the team was safe… but ‘safe’ was a relative term. When the world around you falls apart, it’s easy to pour out your soul via email when you can’t see the other person’s reactions.Madison Keene figured something was up when she was asked to write some unknown soldier a letter – and frankly? She could use an outlet to talk to when her own life was currently imploding before her eyes... moreEric Morrison and his bomb-sniffing dog, Trigger, worked in tandem to make sure the team was safe… but ‘safe’ was a relative term. When the world around you falls apart, it’s easy to pour out your soul via email when you can’t see the other person’s reactions.Madison Keene figured something was up when she was asked to write some unknown soldier a letter – and frankly? She could use an outlet to talk to when her own life was currently imploding before her eyes.Fighting the enemy is hard enough, but what happens when you recognize the foe?These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. What if your only ally is a man that you barely know? less

Corporal Leo Talbot wished things would lighten up on the team. No one could appreciate a few practical jokes and he desperately needed an outlet for the darkness within him. No one would understand the scars on his soul… until he received that first email from Sadie.Sadie Gomez thought writing some soldier overseas was the stupidest idea that her grief counselor entrusted her to do – especially anyone with the last name of Talbot... moreCorporal Leo Talbot wished things would lighten up on the team. No one could appreciate a few practical jokes and he desperately needed an outlet for the darkness within him. No one would understand the scars on his soul… until he received that first email from Sadie.Sadie Gomez thought writing some soldier overseas was the stupidest idea that her grief counselor entrusted her to do – especially anyone with the last name of Talbot. The nightmares wouldn’t simply go away by discussing them, especially when Leo was dealing with his own issues.When an unexpected attack suddenly draws the two foes together, will Sadie be able to trust Leo to have her back?These standalone sweet, clean romances follow a team of soldiers that were once stationed in Afghanistan, bound by friendship. They can be read alone but if you read them together, their stories are so much richer. less