Joanne Pence Knihy

***Willa Cather Literary Award Best Historical Finalist***A young woman faces unimaginable tragedy and a broken, guilt-ridden gunfighter is driven to help her in this harsh and powerful page-turner that explores the darkness in the human heart.Gabriella Devere grows up quickly after a gang of outlaws attacks her family. When the law won't help her, she takes matters into her own hands. Jess McLowry left his war-torn Southern home to head West, where he hired out his gun. When he learns what Gabriella plans, he knows a young woman like her will have no chance against the outlaws, and vows to save her the way he couldn't save his own family.But the price of vengeance is high and Gabriella's willingness to sacrifice everything ultimately leads to the book's deadly and startling conclusion.From "Compelling, thrilling, entertaining""The story is about horrible acts against human beings, secrets that will hurt no matter what path the guy takes but he's determined to do the right thing. It costs him.""Captures your heart and your mind.""What a great book!!! I couldn't put it down!!!""Never has a setting more captivated me than it did in this book. I could see it all, the desert, the wild towns."

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of San Francisco during the 1906 earthquake, the story follows Ruth Greer, the privileged daughter of a shipping magnate. Her life takes a turn when she discovers a young boy who has fled from Chinatown, a neighborhood rife with gambling, opium dens, and the dangers posed by highbinder tongs. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, and the stark contrasts between wealth and hardship in a city on the brink of disaster.

Set in the heart of Sicily, the narrative weaves together ancient myths with the region's rich historical backdrop. As characters navigate through crumbling ruins, they encounter echoes of long-forgotten gods, blending the mystical with the real. The story explores themes of heritage, memory, and the enduring power of myth, inviting readers to delve into a world where the past and present intertwine.

Set against the backdrop of the glamorous culinary world, this gripping tale unveils a sinister secret lurking beneath the surface. As the story unfolds, the protagonist navigates a web of intrigue and deception, ultimately confronting the chilling reality of murder intertwined with the allure of fine dining. The narrative explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the hidden dangers that can arise in the pursuit of culinary excellence.

A lonely young woman embarks on a journey to find a fresh start in an old, mysterious house. There, she encounters a prickly and tormented ghost, leading to an unexpected connection. As their stories intertwine, themes of redemption, healing, and the exploration of the past emerge, creating a unique blend of the supernatural and personal growth.

Exploring the aftermath of a break-up, the story delves into how a simple act of kindness spirals into unforeseen and deadly consequences. As characters navigate their emotions and choices, the narrative reveals the intricate connections between actions and the unexpected fallout they can produce, highlighting themes of love, loss, and the ripple effects of seemingly small decisions.

An antique hope chest containing a forgotten wedding dress and a packet of letters ignites a profound journey filled with themes of love, tragedy, and self-discovery. As the protagonist unravels the mysteries of the past, they confront deep emotions and uncover hidden truths that reshape their understanding of connection and identity. This exploration promises to resonate with readers through its poignant reflections on life's unexpected twists and the enduring power of love.

An unsettling photograph and the gruesome murders of his archaeological dig team propel Michael Rempart into a harrowing quest. As he grapples with the disappearance of a friend, he must confront the dark forces at play in this emotionally charged adventure, blending mystery and horror in a race against time.

Returning to her small hometown, Lee Reynolds is overwhelmed by a flood of memories from her past, including her estranged relationships with her mother and high school friends. The visit forces her to confront the reasons behind her departure, a secret she shared only with her aunt during a tumultuous time in her life. As she navigates these unresolved emotions, the story delves into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of family ties.