Hunter's Vigil — Linda L. Paisley

Hannah Morgan, anxious for a fresh start after a difficult breakup, applies for a teaching job in a one-room school near the small town of Whetstone, Montana. While she is both qualified and determined, Hunter Grissom, Chairman of the School Board, has his doubts about hiring her. She manages to convince the rest of the board that she welcomes the peace and quiet that the quaint school will provide, and, against his better judgment, Hunter agrees to hire her for the school year.

Hunter is concerned about the town's new teacher, but has bigger problems to worry about. Cattle rustlers have hit many of the area's ranches and Hunter fears his ranch will be next. Hannah gains permission from Hunter to use a portion of his land for an educational ecology project, and Hunter is able to help out with Hannah's school activities while keeping an eye on his own cattle.

While the new schoolteacher and the reserved rancher both heal from broken hearts and deal with the everyday concerns of their jobs, they come to find solace in one another's company. When Hannah discovers the identity of the cattle rustlers and puts her own life in danger to save Hunter's cattle, Hunter realized that the feelings he has for her are deeper than just friendly concern. Can Hunter save his ranch and Hannah, or will it be too late for the couple's blossoming romance?