Charles is only supposed to guard Maude and her sisters to their destination. He should have guarded his heart.

Still raw with grief after their father's funeral, Maude Lancaster and her two younger sisters refuse an ultimatum from their ill-intentioned uncle. Since it's a new century and women can travel unchaperoned, they decide to flee out west to live with their older brother. Their aunt hires Charles for protection, but Maude soon finds that her greatest danger is in losing her heart to a man she may never see again.

Former Pinkerton agent Charles Merrick has an opportunity for a new job in San Francisco. When his mother's friend asks to hire him to escort her three nieces across the country, he agrees. Their destination is only a little out of his way. But Charles faces a stumbling block in his attraction to Maude. He's never felt such a connection with a woman before, but they've only known each other a few days. It's too soon for there to be anything real between them. He can continue on to his dream job, or he can stay to see if Maude is the one. He can't do both.

Books in the Lilac City Novella Series

Volume 1: The Lancaster Legacy

Four interconnected stories of hope, hardship, and the healing power of love, following three sisters—and the brother who risks everything to protect them.

• A Match for Maude

• A Dandy for Doris

• A Lady for Luke

• A Fella for Frances

Volume 2: The Resilient Kendricks

As old wounds heal and new lives take root, a second wave of love, courage, and transformation comes to Lilac City.

• An Equal for Edith

• An Angel for Abe

• An Enigma for Edgar

• A Wildcat for Willie (coming late 2025/early 2026)

Vicki Pierce

Voice