Carter by Joan Johnston

Joan Johnston’s fan-favorite tale of a convenient marriage and a surprising love…

Previously published in March 1994 as The Cowboy Takes a Wife

When single mother Desiree Parrish discovers that her abusive ex-husband is being released from prison, she knows she needs live-in protection at her ranch. And since hiring a bodyguard would only scare her young daughter, Desiree decides to hire a husband—one who has more muscles than questions.

All cowboy Carter Prescott has to do to own a piece of Texas is say “I do” and live with a pretty woman and her cute kid. He doesn’t have to love his instant family, and since Carter knows he’s incapable of that, he thinks he’s gotten a sweet deal. At least, until his new wife learns the truth…