In a world of marriage-minded females, Meri McIsaac is steadfastly single.

She's happiest riding on her father's ranch. At least until the town's new marshal startles her and causes her to fall—literally—at his feet. Then he has the gall to implicate her ranch in a bank holdup, turning her entire life upside down.

This is the woman the local matchmaker thought he should meet? Meri is stubborn and headstrong as a mule. Yet he recognizes her courage and loyalty, too, and the grief she carries over her mother's passing. And if he can protect her from a criminal desperate to cover his tracks, he'll prove that risking her heart could be the greatest adventure yet.