What do you think?
Rate this book
The Deputy and the Single Mom
Author's this book was previously published in 2014 under the title Beginnings in Harte's Peak.
A wounded man finds redemption with the help of a single mom and a rescue dog...
Haunted by a tragedy, former U.S. Marshal, Jack seeks comfort in a small town in the Sierra Mountains, taking on the role of a deputy sheriff. But peace remains elusive as nightmares of his devastating loss follow him across the country.
When Jack moves next door to single mom Maggie and her troubled teenage daughter, he finds unexpected companionship. As he navigates the complexities of his new life, an enigmatic rescue dog becomes a catalyst for his healing.
Sparks fly between Jack and Maggie, and their connection deepens, offering him hope for a fresh start. Yet, shadows of Jack’s past threaten to shatter the fragile peace he's found, testing his resolve to protect those he's grown to care for.
In this story of redemption, love, and the power of second chances, Jack finds strength in the bonds he forms and discovers that sometimes, salvation comes from the most unexpected places.
A wounded man finds redemption with the help of a single mom and a rescue dog...
Haunted by a tragedy, former U.S. Marshal, Jack seeks comfort in a small town in the Sierra Mountains, taking on the role of a deputy sheriff. But peace remains elusive as nightmares of his devastating loss follow him across the country.
When Jack moves next door to single mom Maggie and her troubled teenage daughter, he finds unexpected companionship. As he navigates the complexities of his new life, an enigmatic rescue dog becomes a catalyst for his healing.
Sparks fly between Jack and Maggie, and their connection deepens, offering him hope for a fresh start. Yet, shadows of Jack’s past threaten to shatter the fragile peace he's found, testing his resolve to protect those he's grown to care for.
In this story of redemption, love, and the power of second chances, Jack finds strength in the bonds he forms and discovers that sometimes, salvation comes from the most unexpected places.
292 pages, Paperback
Published August 30, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
January 9, 2024
Former US Marshall, Jack is haunted by the devastating loss of his partner. Now he’s in a small town working as a deputy sheriff. Eventually he’ll go back home, when the nightmares end. Coming home from work, Jack sees what looks like a teen breaking in a home in his neighborhood. Not going to happen on his watch.
Single mom Maggie, a widow is shocked when she gets a call from her daughter saying a deputy is at their house. She rushes from work to see what’s going on. When Jack meets the teen’s mother, he sees a beautiful green-eyed woman. He hadn’t been attracted to anyone in a long time. Not that it matters for he’ll be heading back to work for the US Marshall’s office.
Maggie can’t believe how handsome the deputy and neighbor is. She hasn’t looked at a man since she lost her husband. She’s not looking for a relationship, much less to date anyone. Her concern is her daughter, who has been acting out since her father died in an accident. All Maggie wants is her precious daughter back, not the troubled teen. She prays to God. She knows God has it and will just believe in him.
Jack doesn’t have faith anymore. Will he get it back? Can Maggie and Jack heal each other? They are friends and spend time together. Can a lost dog, a troubled teen and a Christian woman turn Jack’s life around? What does God have planned for Jack? Can Maggie move forward with her life too? The characters are absolutely wonderful. They all deserve a second chance in life. If you love Christian stories with a little romance, this one’s for you. Worth the read. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily
January 14, 2024
Jack and Maggie have both come out on the other side of very different kinds of tragedies. Add a sullen teenager and a stray dog, and they’ve also both got their hands full. Too full to appreciate the opportunity the other represents? Or will they take advantage of the gift of salvation when it’s offered? This was a beautiful story of healing and redemption. It’s sweet and strong in its faith. I really enjoyed watching this pair learn and grow. And, their supporting cast occasionally ran away with the story on them, so I’m hoping to see books about them in the future.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
January 19, 2024
DNF 25%
January 9, 2024
What does a single church-going mom, who is raising a teenage daughter, and a single Deputy, who are neighbors, have in common? The answer is more than one might think. Maggie is grieving the death of her husband, and her daughter Lexie is acting out because she misses her father. Jack has moved thousands of miles from his home because he blames himself for the death of his partner and is suffering from PTSD. Maggie’s in-laws aren’t helping things as they are trying to take Lexie away from Maggie. One day, out of nowhere, a dog appears and the dog is what helps them all start to heal and realize they can put their pasts behind them and love again! I really enjoyed this book about second chances!
I received a free copy of this book for my honest review.
I received a free copy of this book for my honest review.
December 18, 2023
This was a sweet book. There wasn’t too much turmoil besides just inner conflict but it was a cute story. If you aren’t a fan of religious books, then this one isn’t for you. It isn’t overwhelmingly religious but it is brought up multiple times.
Side note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review
Side note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review
December 13, 2023
A sweet romance. An engaging couple. Both have problematic back stories, of course. Interesting addition of the dog. Nicely written tale. My only issue is the overuse of God. I realize this is a Christian romance and it is just my personal desire for limitation. Nothing wrong with it certainly. I tend to read this type of story because of what is not included, such as intimate details, swear words, etc. Thanks to the author for providing a copy. My review is voluntary.
March 2, 2024
Very good book. Seeing Jack and Maggie trying to be better people together and apart was so good. Jack was so closed off and meeting her made him realized that life was more than he thought it could be. Maggie was going through a hard time too and he helped just being himself, her savior in a way
January 22, 2024
Jack left Virginia after his best friend's death for which he feels responsible. He leaves the State Troopers with the idea to someday return once he can hopefully get to a better place mentally. He decides to move to a small town where no one knows him and becomes a deputy. He gets off to a rocky start when he thinks his next door neighbor's daughter is trying to break into the house.
Maggie, the mother of daughter Lexi, introduces them and assures him that the only issue is Lexi isn't supposed to come home alone. Maggie is trying to deal with her husband's death. Lexi is acting out on many levels as she processes her grief. Maggie's in-laws took over after their son died since Maggie couldn't get out of bed, much less function. Maggie appreciates all they did, but they are making life difficult right now.
Maggie asks Jack for some help with mentoring Lexi. Jack doesn't really feel up to the task. He does what he can in helping to make sure Lexi has some support. Neither Maggie nor Jack are looking for romance. There is a growing quiet attraction between the two of them that depends on Jack's decision of whether or not to move back to Virginia.
This novel is a sweet romance with a strong inspirational message. Maggie relies on her strong faith to help her in all aspects of her life. There is also a dog in the storyline which is always a plus for me.
If you want an uplifting tale for these troubled times, THE DEPUTY AND THE SINGLE MOM is the book for you.
Maggie, the mother of daughter Lexi, introduces them and assures him that the only issue is Lexi isn't supposed to come home alone. Maggie is trying to deal with her husband's death. Lexi is acting out on many levels as she processes her grief. Maggie's in-laws took over after their son died since Maggie couldn't get out of bed, much less function. Maggie appreciates all they did, but they are making life difficult right now.
Maggie asks Jack for some help with mentoring Lexi. Jack doesn't really feel up to the task. He does what he can in helping to make sure Lexi has some support. Neither Maggie nor Jack are looking for romance. There is a growing quiet attraction between the two of them that depends on Jack's decision of whether or not to move back to Virginia.
This novel is a sweet romance with a strong inspirational message. Maggie relies on her strong faith to help her in all aspects of her life. There is also a dog in the storyline which is always a plus for me.
If you want an uplifting tale for these troubled times, THE DEPUTY AND THE SINGLE MOM is the book for you.
January 16, 2024
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
What a wonderful start to a new series. This was so well written. I could see the different scenes as they played out. I was so invested in these two characters. They felt like friends and I couldn't wait for them to get to their HEA (at least after I shook Jack senseless, that is!!)
Jack took leave of his U.S. Marshal job after the death of his friend and partner. Feeling so responsible that Jack is left sleepless, grumpy and unworthy. His next door neighbor is a widow with a 13 year old daughter. A daughter that he sees breaking into the house. Jack of course, being a police officer now in the small town. Stops her as he of course doesn't believe her story of living at the house as she doesn't have a key to the place. Maggie rushes home to clear up the misunderstanding.
These two both have a difficult past to over come. Maggie has her faith to her. Jack doesn't believe anymore. With life's struggles coming their way, can they navigate their way through? Can they over come their burdens and find happiness? Well you will have to read for yourself.
This is a wonderfully written second chance at love with strong Christian tone to lead the way. I would highly recommend this to anyone. I can't wait for more of this series!
What a wonderful start to a new series. This was so well written. I could see the different scenes as they played out. I was so invested in these two characters. They felt like friends and I couldn't wait for them to get to their HEA (at least after I shook Jack senseless, that is!!)
Jack took leave of his U.S. Marshal job after the death of his friend and partner. Feeling so responsible that Jack is left sleepless, grumpy and unworthy. His next door neighbor is a widow with a 13 year old daughter. A daughter that he sees breaking into the house. Jack of course, being a police officer now in the small town. Stops her as he of course doesn't believe her story of living at the house as she doesn't have a key to the place. Maggie rushes home to clear up the misunderstanding.
These two both have a difficult past to over come. Maggie has her faith to her. Jack doesn't believe anymore. With life's struggles coming their way, can they navigate their way through? Can they over come their burdens and find happiness? Well you will have to read for yourself.
This is a wonderfully written second chance at love with strong Christian tone to lead the way. I would highly recommend this to anyone. I can't wait for more of this series!
December 30, 2023
If you are looking for a clean, Christian romance, this is the one for you.
Former US Marshal Jack Butler has taken a leave of absence from his job in Virginia and taken a position as a deputy in a small Sierra Mountains town. He’s suffering from guilt and PTSD after a transport of a prisoner goes wrong and his partner is killed. A death he feels responsible for.
Jack has decided to isolate himself from everyone and therefore, never expected that the single, widowed mom , Maggie Bradshaw and her troubled teenage daughter Lexi, would turn his world upside down.
Though the attraction intensifies, neither is ready nor willing to open their hearts when there is so much baggage in their lives.
Will the daughter and mother duo show him he has a future he could be proud of? Will opening his heart to God help show him he needs to forgive himself as God forgives him?
This is a story about second chances in life and love. It’s also a story about raising up from the ashes and realizing that though life is full of ups and downs, love is worth the risk.
Definitely a story that will touch your hearts.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Former US Marshal Jack Butler has taken a leave of absence from his job in Virginia and taken a position as a deputy in a small Sierra Mountains town. He’s suffering from guilt and PTSD after a transport of a prisoner goes wrong and his partner is killed. A death he feels responsible for.
Jack has decided to isolate himself from everyone and therefore, never expected that the single, widowed mom , Maggie Bradshaw and her troubled teenage daughter Lexi, would turn his world upside down.
Though the attraction intensifies, neither is ready nor willing to open their hearts when there is so much baggage in their lives.
Will the daughter and mother duo show him he has a future he could be proud of? Will opening his heart to God help show him he needs to forgive himself as God forgives him?
This is a story about second chances in life and love. It’s also a story about raising up from the ashes and realizing that though life is full of ups and downs, love is worth the risk.
Definitely a story that will touch your hearts.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 16, 2025
This was a sweet book that addressed difficult topics like grief, PTSD, forgiveness (or lack thereof) and guilt. I couldn’t tell if this book was a part of the Christian fiction genre until I started reading.
I do like how the author showed the difficulties of being a single parent, especially to a difficult and hurting teenager. As a daughter of a single mother, my heart went out to the mother’s internal struggles.
I thought Jack’s PTSD was well portrayed and his internal dialogue accurately matched the guilt he felt.
The ending seemed a little rushed to me, especially the declarations of love between characters. But I also lost track of how much time passed within the story’s timeline. So, it could just be me.
The dog, Chief, showed up about midway through the story. I liked how he was returned to his owners, even though I know it was hard for Jack and Lexi (teenager). He was such a sweet icebreaker, especially to Lexi’s heart.
Overall, I enjoyed the story.
I do like how the author showed the difficulties of being a single parent, especially to a difficult and hurting teenager. As a daughter of a single mother, my heart went out to the mother’s internal struggles.
I thought Jack’s PTSD was well portrayed and his internal dialogue accurately matched the guilt he felt.
The ending seemed a little rushed to me, especially the declarations of love between characters. But I also lost track of how much time passed within the story’s timeline. So, it could just be me.
The dog, Chief, showed up about midway through the story. I liked how he was returned to his owners, even though I know it was hard for Jack and Lexi (teenager). He was such a sweet icebreaker, especially to Lexi’s heart.
Overall, I enjoyed the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2024
I felt it is better than 3* but definitely not 4* My rating at 3.5**is based on tone and content overall. The story line has merit, the characters have some strength and is of reasonable interest.
Jack is the local deputy, new to his position and not yet settled into his new job or home. Thinking his neighbour's home was being burgled brings him into contact with Maggie and her difficult teenage daughter, Lexi. It is not a relationship without challenges.
It is written with a clean, bible quoting, church going theme. This will suit some readers, and not others. It would not be my immediate preference as it is tame, lacking excitement or bite, which I found it a bit predictable in parts at times compared to others written by this author. This is the only book that I have read by this author that I did not fully engage with.
Jack is the local deputy, new to his position and not yet settled into his new job or home. Thinking his neighbour's home was being burgled brings him into contact with Maggie and her difficult teenage daughter, Lexi. It is not a relationship without challenges.
It is written with a clean, bible quoting, church going theme. This will suit some readers, and not others. It would not be my immediate preference as it is tame, lacking excitement or bite, which I found it a bit predictable in parts at times compared to others written by this author. This is the only book that I have read by this author that I did not fully engage with.
January 16, 2024
This is a great, clean, second chance romance. I really enjoyed Jack and Maggie and of course her daughter, Lexi. These two would be great for each other but Jack has lost his faith and Maggie has more than enough for the two of them. However, they are also both dealing with issues that they are still trying to work through. I liked the story and loved the story line with Chief/Max who came into the picture just when Jack needed a sign. I was definitely tearing up during that part. It was nice that Jack dealt with his past and I really enjoyed how this story ended for everyone. It was also nice that you could see a huge shift in how Jack dealt with a situation at the beginning of this book and how he dealt with it at the end. Great story about forgiveness, second chances and a higher power.
January 17, 2024
I absolutely love a great romance book and when we can read about some tough issues, PTSD, grief, guilt, redemption, etc., it’s a win-win in my opinion. Jack moves into Maggie’s neighborhood and the first thing he sees is someone breaking into Maggie’s house. Unknown to Jack, it’s Lexi, Maggie’s daughter, doing the breaking and entering. Lexi doesn’t have a key and didn’t want to wait on her mom. Maggie works at The Bean, local coffee shop. Vera is the owner and can’t stand Jack’s fellow deputy, Ryan. Hopefully, we’ll get their story in a future book. I highly recommend this beautifully written story, so do yourself a favor and grab your copy to see why I loved it so much. No spoilers, but you’ll love these characters.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
January 15, 2024
Sweet and heartfelt:
This was a really enjoyable and encouraging story. It was a Christian novel and I really enjoyed the faith aspects that were front and centre without coming across as being too preachy. I particularly appreciated the focus on forgiveness; not just of others but of oneself too.
Both Maggie and Jack were hurting and it was wonderful seeing them find healing and restoration together. They made a lovely couple and the supporting characters additionally felt authentic and added a depth to the story. I look forward to returning to this small town to discover more of their stories.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
This was a really enjoyable and encouraging story. It was a Christian novel and I really enjoyed the faith aspects that were front and centre without coming across as being too preachy. I particularly appreciated the focus on forgiveness; not just of others but of oneself too.
Both Maggie and Jack were hurting and it was wonderful seeing them find healing and restoration together. They made a lovely couple and the supporting characters additionally felt authentic and added a depth to the story. I look forward to returning to this small town to discover more of their stories.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 17, 2024
While Jack tries to make peace with recent events he has stepped back from his job as a US Marshall and is now working as a deputy sheriff. Although he meets Maggie and her daughter Lexie under less-than-ideal circumstances they help him find the direction he needs.
The loss of her husband has been a difficult transition for Maggie and her daughter. She finds peace in her faith, and she wants to help her daughter and Jack find the same peace when it comes to their turmoil as well.
This is a heartwarming story about love, faith and family. All three of these characters are finding it difficult to overcome the pain of their pasts but the strength they give each other might just give them the happiness they all deserve.
The loss of her husband has been a difficult transition for Maggie and her daughter. She finds peace in her faith, and she wants to help her daughter and Jack find the same peace when it comes to their turmoil as well.
This is a heartwarming story about love, faith and family. All three of these characters are finding it difficult to overcome the pain of their pasts but the strength they give each other might just give them the happiness they all deserve.
December 19, 2023
This is a clean Christian romance about redemption and forgiveness. Maggie Bradshaw has returned home to Harte’s Peak with her teenage daughter, Lexi, after an accident leaves her a widow. Running form his past and suffering from PTSD, Jack Butler is sheltering his life from everything. Until one day, he happens upon a teenager breaking into his neighbor’s house. When Maggie leaves work to clear up the misunderstanding with her neighbor, everyone’s lives change for the better. A stray dog appears and Jack fosters him until the owners can be found. As noted, God knew what he was doing when he placed the dog in the lives of Jack, Maggie and Lexi.
January 8, 2024
Maggie and Jack both need a second chance. Still heartbroken over the death of her husband, Maggie has no desire to date, much less fall in love. Jack suffers from PTSD and blames himself for his partner’s death. Then throw Lexie, Maggie’s teenage daughter, into the mix. She is acting out and suffering from her father’s death. Now we add in a dog that smells like garbage. How they all interact makes a fantastic story about love, redemption and second chances. I loved reading this story and didn’t want to put it down.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.
January 19, 2024
The Deputy and the Single Mom ~ Sierra Mountains Deputies #1 by Maria Michaels.
This is my first book to read from Maria Michaels, however, I do read and love her writing under Heatherly Bell, and is a favorite author of mine, so I gave this a try.
I was not disappointed with this story. I found it to be written brilliantly, and believable too. Can two people with issues from the past find their happily ever after together?
I highly recommend this book.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Great world building, Happily Ever After, Inspirational, Page-turner, Realistic, and Wonderful characters
This is my first book to read from Maria Michaels, however, I do read and love her writing under Heatherly Bell, and is a favorite author of mine, so I gave this a try.
I was not disappointed with this story. I found it to be written brilliantly, and believable too. Can two people with issues from the past find their happily ever after together?
I highly recommend this book.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Great world building, Happily Ever After, Inspirational, Page-turner, Realistic, and Wonderful characters
January 16, 2024
A journey to forgiveness, love and happiness! After a tragic incident, Jack has so much to work through, even to admit to himself about... Maggie and Lexi have their own things to work through, but when their paths cross with Jack, things take a turn for the better... Maggie and Lexi find a crack in Jack's armor and slowly opens his heart.
I found this clean romance touching... Enjoyed going along the characters' journey and seeing them grow and work things out! Chief was a great addition to telling their story. This book left me happy!
I found this clean romance touching... Enjoyed going along the characters' journey and seeing them grow and work things out! Chief was a great addition to telling their story. This book left me happy!
January 16, 2024
Slow-burn Christian Romance
Such a sweet, slow romance. There were a lot of references to church and God, more than my normal Christian romance genre reads, but I was happy for all those references by the end (it made them all come together nicely). The two main characters (Maggie and Jack) were very well planned out, as were the secondary characters. The addition of Chief (the rescue dog) was a perfect Match for Jack and Lexi, we all need that support in our lives. I great read and worth your time!
Such a sweet, slow romance. There were a lot of references to church and God, more than my normal Christian romance genre reads, but I was happy for all those references by the end (it made them all come together nicely). The two main characters (Maggie and Jack) were very well planned out, as were the secondary characters. The addition of Chief (the rescue dog) was a perfect Match for Jack and Lexi, we all need that support in our lives. I great read and worth your time!
Read
January 16, 2024Sweet story as a good beginning of a new series by Maria Michaels.
Jack is a deputy and former US Marshal with a tragic past.
Maggie is a widow with a rebellious teen daughter, Lexi, and Jack’s neighbor.
Lexi brings them together a few times and not in the best way. Then a stray dog enters the picture and things. Amazing what an animal and God can accomplish.
*I received this book as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
Jack is a deputy and former US Marshal with a tragic past.
Maggie is a widow with a rebellious teen daughter, Lexi, and Jack’s neighbor.
Lexi brings them together a few times and not in the best way. Then a stray dog enters the picture and things. Amazing what an animal and God can accomplish.
*I received this book as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
January 18, 2024
Maggie and Jack are very likable characters. Both struggle with a difficult past, and find a way to overcome their heartaches together. Maggie was a bit naive in her assumption that a strange man would willingly help her daughter just because he is a police officer. At times she seems somewhat dimwitted because of the author's use of "God wants it this way" to explain away decisions. At times, this phrasing directly contradicts plot explanations about the past. Definitely overused.
January 18, 2024
Jack leaves his job after losing his best friend/partner. Jack feels it was his fault and is suffering from PTSD. He takes a new job in the Sierras as a deputy. Moving into his new home, a rental next door to a
single mom and her 13 y.o. daughter. Great story and good characters. Can Jack get over his ptsd? I recommend this book and will look for more from this new to me author. This review was solely my opinion
single mom and her 13 y.o. daughter. Great story and good characters. Can Jack get over his ptsd? I recommend this book and will look for more from this new to me author. This review was solely my opinion
August 31, 2025
Jack cannot get past his feelings that he left his fellow US Marshall down on a call and his friend died. So Jack left his US Marshall job to be a deputy sheriff in Harte's Peak. He becomes friends with a neighbor Maggie when he catches her daughter, Lexi trying to break into her own house! He later offers Maggie help with her car's problems and finds he is drawn to her. He finally returns to God to guide him and finds his way.
December 27, 2023
This book is so different to many others that I have enjoyed, however I found it to be a fantastic read.
It is such a sweet story about two people who are brought together by their individual grief. They unknowingly teach each other what is needed in order to overcome this and carry on, living their lives to the fullest.
It is such a heartwarming and beautiful story.
It is such a sweet story about two people who are brought together by their individual grief. They unknowingly teach each other what is needed in order to overcome this and carry on, living their lives to the fullest.
It is such a heartwarming and beautiful story.
January 16, 2024
This is a lovely romance with widowed Maggie and Jack who is suffering from PTSD. They are both trying to rebuild their life after the trauma they have been through. When they meet they neither one were looking for romance but they are drawn to each other in ways that were unexpected. Loved this sweet clean book and the characters as well.
September 20, 2025
A U.S. Marshal moves to a small town in California from Virginia after a traumatic work experience. In spite of themselves, he and his new neighbor, a widowed mother of a grumpy teenage girl, fall for each other.
Christian.
Editing issues:
Some exactly repeated lines.
Extra punctuation marks.
Replaced letters - ‘more’ instead of ‘move.’
Contains: Grief, surly teenager, premarital kissing.
Christian.
Editing issues:
Some exactly repeated lines.
Extra punctuation marks.
Replaced letters - ‘more’ instead of ‘move.’
Contains: Grief, surly teenager, premarital kissing.
January 27, 2024
Heartwarming and emotionally thrilling, action packed journey filled with engaging charters, intriguing story line, witty banter, heart racing twists and undeniable passion. Edge of your seat, highly entertaining and heart racing adventure.
February 3, 2024
Very good story!
I really connected with the people in this story. And I have not gone through any of the things they faced, the story was so real. I stayed up late to finish and I ahead a few tears but so glad I read.
I really connected with the people in this story. And I have not gone through any of the things they faced, the story was so real. I stayed up late to finish and I ahead a few tears but so glad I read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews