Trista has been on the run for years, attempting to escape a past that isn’t willing to let her go. Life taught her that she can rely only on herself for survival, and in turn, it’s made her cold, calculating, manipulative, and just a little vindictive. She knows they’re out there searching for her. She knows someone will always be right behind her, but a life spent running and hiding is exhausting. A life spent fighting and outsmarting her pursuers takes a toll.

He was everywhere, at every turn. I couldn’t avoid him, even if I tried. How could I, when he looked at me like I was his whole world? Until one day, he didn’t. Now, he wants another chance, but I don’t know if I can trust him with my heart a second time.

Gia Keats works both sides of love’s dirty business. Some days are spent at Silhouette Bridal Boutique, helping brides prepare for their delusional walk to happily ever after. Other days she clocks hours for Duplicity, spying on cheaters and crushing their plans for future trysts. The two jobs are a solid reminder to ignore the dead thing inside her chest and to stay out of love’s sight. She never expected to get caught. Love is also pretty far down on Mark Foster’s priority list.

"Jakob Larson is going to be the death of me." That’s what I think every time he strides into my bar. The Kings of Kearny run this small Texas town, and Jakob is their chief enforcer. The Viking, they call him. He’s a criminal. As dangerous as he is sexy. The kind of man who makes my inner cavewoman sit up and take notice. Him big. Make strong babies. Bring home mammoth for dinner. I’m ready to indulge her desires, but just for one night. Unfortunately, Jakob has other plans. Someone in town is breaking one of the cardinal rules set by the leader of The Kings.

My life in Chicago was perfect. I had a great boyfriend, a great job, and an amazing apartment. Then it all went to shit and the city turned its back on me. Going home was my only option. Now the man that invaded my fantasies but avoided me for years is my new boss.