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Guarding His Child
He’s in a killer’s sights…
But it’s not just his life in danger.
Rancher Nash Wilder is just coming to terms with his surprise fatherhood when bullets start flying. His child’s mother has been murdered, and he’ll have to trust his nemesis, Deputy Skye Saddler, to keep them from following in her fate. Is the killer out for revenge or after his daughter? Can Nash and Skye put their differences aside to make sure they all live to see tomorrow?
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
But it’s not just his life in danger.
Rancher Nash Wilder is just coming to terms with his surprise fatherhood when bullets start flying. His child’s mother has been murdered, and he’ll have to trust his nemesis, Deputy Skye Saddler, to keep them from following in her fate. Is the killer out for revenge or after his daughter? Can Nash and Skye put their differences aside to make sure they all live to see tomorrow?
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
- GenresMystery ThrillerRomance
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published February 21, 2023
About the author
Karen Kirst
73 books258 followersKaren Kirst was born and raised in East Tennessee near the Great Smoky Mountains. A lifelong lover of books, it wasn't until after college that she had the grand idea to write one herself. The pursuit of her dream would take longer than she first anticipated...years, in fact. In the fall of 2010, she got the happy news that Harlequin Love Inspired Historical wanted to publish her manuscript-a true blessing from God. Now she divides her time between being a wife, homeschooling mom, and romance writer. She enjoys reading, hosting tea parties and spending time with friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 20, 2023
Guarding His Child by Karen Kirst
He’s in a killer’s sights…
But it’s not just his life in danger.
Rancher Nash Wilder is just coming to terms with his surprise fatherhood when bullets start flying. His child’s mother has been murdered, and he’ll have to trust his nemesis, Deputy Skye Saddler, to keep them from following in her fate. Is the killer out for revenge or after his daughter? Can Nash and Skye put their differences aside to make sure they all live to see tomorrow?
This is Nash Wilder, Lucy Ackerman and daughter Eden's story.
This is Deputy Skye Saddler's story.
There was no denying the woman clinging to life was her best friend from school—Lucy Ackerman. She’d dyed her light hair a darker brown and grown it out, and she’d put on enough weight to look healthy, for a change. An addiction to drugs had all but severed Lucy’s relationship with her family and friends, and she’d moved away from Tulip years ago.
“Lucy? It’s Skye.” She rested her trembling hand on her shoulder. “Hang on a while longer, okay? Can you do that for me?”
She stared at Skye. “Eden.” She struggled to speak. “Nash’s daughter.”
Deputy Skye Saddler stared in disbelief at the eviction notice taped to her door. The southern Mississippi heat was no match for the shame licking her insides. Lewis had followed through with his threat to kick her out of the apartment complex. He’d gotten tired of the late payments and excuses, and she couldn’t fault him for it. The landlord had given her more chances than she’d deserved.
Her radio crackled, and the dispatcher relayed a report of a possible crime in progress. Ripping the slip off the door, she jumped into her cruiser and advised the call center that she was responding. She hurtled along the country roads toward the designated address, a rental house that had been vacant for at least a decade. Teenagers could’ve chosen to use it as a hangout. Or a squatter could’ve moved in.
The word squatter made her thoughts circle back to her own predicament. The news that she was homeless wouldn’t stay contained for long. Her reputation would take another serious hit. Some would say the apple didn’t fall far from the tree, insinuating she wasn’t that different from her late mother.
She called Deputy Hank Flowers and asked him to head directly to Nash Wilder’s house. If his whereabouts these past few hours couldn’t be accounted for, he would become her first suspect.
Nash had returned from his long stint in the Marines four years ago. He must have had the opportunity to strike up a renewed romance with his former love. Could he have pressured Lucy to stay away from their hometown? Maybe he was embarrassed to acknowledge the relationship ecause of her lifestyle choices. He was serious about continuing the Wilder legacy in the wake of his father’s death. Maybe he hadn’t wanted anything to soil his reputation.
I recommend reading.
Guarding His Child by Karen Kirst is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Karen Kirst .
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
More books by
Witness Protection Breach by Karen Kirst
Targeted for Revenge (Smoky Mountain Defenders Book 1)
Mountain Murder Investigation (Smoky Mountain Defenders Book 3)
Smoky Mountain Ambush (Smoky Mountain Defenders Book 2)
The Reluctant Outlaw (Smoky Mountain Matches Book 1)
The Sheriff's Christmas Twins (Smoky Mountain Matches Book 9)
Book 9 of 12: Smoky Mountain Matches
and more books.
He’s in a killer’s sights…
But it’s not just his life in danger.
Rancher Nash Wilder is just coming to terms with his surprise fatherhood when bullets start flying. His child’s mother has been murdered, and he’ll have to trust his nemesis, Deputy Skye Saddler, to keep them from following in her fate. Is the killer out for revenge or after his daughter? Can Nash and Skye put their differences aside to make sure they all live to see tomorrow?
This is Nash Wilder, Lucy Ackerman and daughter Eden's story.
This is Deputy Skye Saddler's story.
There was no denying the woman clinging to life was her best friend from school—Lucy Ackerman. She’d dyed her light hair a darker brown and grown it out, and she’d put on enough weight to look healthy, for a change. An addiction to drugs had all but severed Lucy’s relationship with her family and friends, and she’d moved away from Tulip years ago.
“Lucy? It’s Skye.” She rested her trembling hand on her shoulder. “Hang on a while longer, okay? Can you do that for me?”
She stared at Skye. “Eden.” She struggled to speak. “Nash’s daughter.”
Deputy Skye Saddler stared in disbelief at the eviction notice taped to her door. The southern Mississippi heat was no match for the shame licking her insides. Lewis had followed through with his threat to kick her out of the apartment complex. He’d gotten tired of the late payments and excuses, and she couldn’t fault him for it. The landlord had given her more chances than she’d deserved.
Her radio crackled, and the dispatcher relayed a report of a possible crime in progress. Ripping the slip off the door, she jumped into her cruiser and advised the call center that she was responding. She hurtled along the country roads toward the designated address, a rental house that had been vacant for at least a decade. Teenagers could’ve chosen to use it as a hangout. Or a squatter could’ve moved in.
The word squatter made her thoughts circle back to her own predicament. The news that she was homeless wouldn’t stay contained for long. Her reputation would take another serious hit. Some would say the apple didn’t fall far from the tree, insinuating she wasn’t that different from her late mother.
She called Deputy Hank Flowers and asked him to head directly to Nash Wilder’s house. If his whereabouts these past few hours couldn’t be accounted for, he would become her first suspect.
Nash had returned from his long stint in the Marines four years ago. He must have had the opportunity to strike up a renewed romance with his former love. Could he have pressured Lucy to stay away from their hometown? Maybe he was embarrassed to acknowledge the relationship ecause of her lifestyle choices. He was serious about continuing the Wilder legacy in the wake of his father’s death. Maybe he hadn’t wanted anything to soil his reputation.
I recommend reading.
Guarding His Child by Karen Kirst is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Karen Kirst .
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
More books by
Witness Protection Breach by Karen Kirst
Targeted for Revenge (Smoky Mountain Defenders Book 1)
Mountain Murder Investigation (Smoky Mountain Defenders Book 3)
Smoky Mountain Ambush (Smoky Mountain Defenders Book 2)
The Reluctant Outlaw (Smoky Mountain Matches Book 1)
The Sheriff's Christmas Twins (Smoky Mountain Matches Book 9)
Book 9 of 12: Smoky Mountain Matches
and more books.
June 3, 2023
Good story and characters.
September 7, 2024
It didn’t keep my interest
February 6, 2023
Nashe's world rocked when he found out he was the father of a two year old little girl, then bullets began to fly after learning her mother was murdered. But he'll have to trust deputy Skye saddler to keep them safe. Will they make it till the next day, to find out get your copy,this book is a page turner, great book would definitely recommend
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2023
I loved this book! As soon as I finished it, I handed it to my daughter and told her to start it. Watching the relationships change and blossom, all while trying to figure out who was causing trouble all over Tulip Mississippi. It is a fabulous story that will keep you guessing!
January 30, 2023
I finished it this morning after starting it just last night. Literally so good! I love how the story ended up and was quite surprised by who the criminal was! Each new scene kept me guessing. The small town vibe that had high school friendships and family connections really resonated with me. The way Skye finds her faith seemed natural and realistic and challenged me to be a light to others facing hard times.
January 23, 2023
Rancher Nash Wilder and Deputy Skye Saddler grew up in the small town of Tulip, Mississippi. A rough home life caused them to build walls and form wrong opinions about each other.
When Skye comes across a dying Lucy, her best friend and Nash's girlfriend from high school, Lucy's last words bring Skye to Nash's ranch. After someone shoots at Nash, Skye is assigned to stay with Nash and his newfound daughter, providing an opportunity to see one another in a different light.
Guarding His Child is the beginning of a new series for Karen Kirst. I enjoyed this book. There is a lot to like about this story - a strong faith, ranch life, a sweet little girl, and a mystery to solve. I'm eager for the next one.
I received a free paperback copy of this book. I volunteered to read it and write a review.
When Skye comes across a dying Lucy, her best friend and Nash's girlfriend from high school, Lucy's last words bring Skye to Nash's ranch. After someone shoots at Nash, Skye is assigned to stay with Nash and his newfound daughter, providing an opportunity to see one another in a different light.
Guarding His Child is the beginning of a new series for Karen Kirst. I enjoyed this book. There is a lot to like about this story - a strong faith, ranch life, a sweet little girl, and a mystery to solve. I'm eager for the next one.
I received a free paperback copy of this book. I volunteered to read it and write a review.
March 13, 2023
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Guarding His Child. Karen is an excellent author and I know you are going to appreciate her skills in writing this book. It's action-packed and full of faith. You can't loose with that combination.
Deputy Skye Saddler is about to lose her home. She was worried about how her boss would take the news. He wouldn't want a homeless deputy. She is called out and finds a young woman dying in a pool of blood. She recognizes the woman as her best friend in high school, Lucy. Lucy tells her the baby is Nash's daughter. Baby where's the baby? She hears a crash and is shoved into a dirty glass window. As she walks across the yard to follow the assailant, she finds a young girl about two in the back of her mother's car.
Rancher Nash Wilder can't deny the child looks like him, she has the Wilder eyes but no sooner as he accepts he could be her father bullets start flying. Can this ex-Marine keep these girls from being murdered? Who could be after them?
An exciting journey to protect the child and find the killer. God has a plan for these three, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan for peace and an expected end.
Deputy Skye Saddler is about to lose her home. She was worried about how her boss would take the news. He wouldn't want a homeless deputy. She is called out and finds a young woman dying in a pool of blood. She recognizes the woman as her best friend in high school, Lucy. Lucy tells her the baby is Nash's daughter. Baby where's the baby? She hears a crash and is shoved into a dirty glass window. As she walks across the yard to follow the assailant, she finds a young girl about two in the back of her mother's car.
Rancher Nash Wilder can't deny the child looks like him, she has the Wilder eyes but no sooner as he accepts he could be her father bullets start flying. Can this ex-Marine keep these girls from being murdered? Who could be after them?
An exciting journey to protect the child and find the killer. God has a plan for these three, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan for peace and an expected end.
March 3, 2023
First of all, I DO NOT LIKE SGT CHEN. Yucky man! BUT, he makes for a deeper attachment to our lovely Skye. She is automatically underestimated and judged by him because of her situation. But, she is an amazing, strong, and sassy woman. Who doesn't love a female lead like that? Nash is a total sweetheart. His immediate care for his daughter, Eden, makes him a total swoon worthy character. He tries to keep from getting close to anyone, because his previous relationship with his father leaves him a little damaged and guarded. But he eventually overcomes that for Eden and Skye. Nash and Skye are such a great pair. They started out as (sort of) enemies, who didn't like each other very much. But after the first chapter you can really feel their chemistry, and you're rooting for them from there on. Aside from the very cringy, first proposal, that left me with secondhand embarrassment, I loved it! That specific part didn't take away from the story whatsoever. In fact, it really just added to it. But I felt the embarrassment from the character outside of the pages. Then the total surprise as to "who done it." I never expected it to be this person. 100% would recommend reading it. Karen Kirst has yet to disappoint.
December 29, 2023
A friend (MH) sent me this book in a box of books. The characters drew me in to their story.
I've long thought that it is difficult to do justice to both suspense and romance in the page limits of Love Inspired Suspense, so the romance part seems to work best when the couple-to-be has prior history. In this case, Nash and Skye grew up in the same town and Nash dated Skye's friend during their school year. I still do think the marriage proposal is a bit rushed but at least this author only has them engaged by the end of the book--so I can live with that.
When Skye finds her friend dying, the friend names Nash as the baby's father--something the murderer wasn't counting on. I didn't guess who the murderer was--but that is my norm and if you're someone who usually does, your experience may vary.
I've long thought that it is difficult to do justice to both suspense and romance in the page limits of Love Inspired Suspense, so the romance part seems to work best when the couple-to-be has prior history. In this case, Nash and Skye grew up in the same town and Nash dated Skye's friend during their school year. I still do think the marriage proposal is a bit rushed but at least this author only has them engaged by the end of the book--so I can live with that.
When Skye finds her friend dying, the friend names Nash as the baby's father--something the murderer wasn't counting on. I didn't guess who the murderer was--but that is my norm and if you're someone who usually does, your experience may vary.
March 1, 2023
Another action packed, riveting read from author Karen Krist!! I loved Nash and Skye's story and watching them learn to love & depend on one another as they try to take down a killer.
From the first chapter, things start out with a bang and continue throughout the entire book!
There's not many books I can honestly say that I get to the end & am completely surprised at the "who-dun-it". This was one of those reads, I did not see it coming! In my opinion, that is a sign of a terrific book & author!! If you're looking to add another story to your "to be read" pile, look no further! I give "Guarding His Child" 5 stars! I was given this book by the author in exchange for my honest review, all opinions expressed are my own.
From the first chapter, things start out with a bang and continue throughout the entire book!
There's not many books I can honestly say that I get to the end & am completely surprised at the "who-dun-it". This was one of those reads, I did not see it coming! In my opinion, that is a sign of a terrific book & author!! If you're looking to add another story to your "to be read" pile, look no further! I give "Guarding His Child" 5 stars! I was given this book by the author in exchange for my honest review, all opinions expressed are my own.
February 21, 2023
Karen Kirst continues to amaze me with her ability to bring such unique stories to life. Guarding His Child is no exception. First you meet Skye Saddler - she is not what you expect nor is the first few pages of the book where she is already faced with a murderer. Then you meet Nash Wilder and he is a ball of enigma. Not only did I keep guessing who the murderer was until the very end but I also wondered how Skye and Nash would ever wind up getting along. Kirst managed both brilliantly and the book was as amazing as the rest of her previous series were. I look forward to the rest of this series! I received this book from the author and all the views and opinions are solely mine.
October 13, 2024
Did Not See That Coming
So many times while I read the story, I kept repeating, "I did not see that coming." It had me on the edge of my seat as I kept guessing and speculating. In their past, Nash and Skye had run around in the same social circle, but they didn’t truly know each other. Each had something in their past that had them holding back from rising above judgments they'd formed. I loved getting to know them and greatly enjoyed their story. However, after reading it, there is one thing I can say for sure. I have a whole new respect for waffles. And if you’re asking yourself why, you’ll just have to read it to find out. You won’t be disappointed.
So many times while I read the story, I kept repeating, "I did not see that coming." It had me on the edge of my seat as I kept guessing and speculating. In their past, Nash and Skye had run around in the same social circle, but they didn’t truly know each other. Each had something in their past that had them holding back from rising above judgments they'd formed. I loved getting to know them and greatly enjoyed their story. However, after reading it, there is one thing I can say for sure. I have a whole new respect for waffles. And if you’re asking yourself why, you’ll just have to read it to find out. You won’t be disappointed.
March 2, 2023
Very intriguing!
I’m a fan of Karen’s books and this new one is just wonderful. The ending of the mystery I didn’t see coming. But the sweet affection between Nash and Skye was touching and I was rooting for them both to overcome their past heartaches and try again to find acceptance in God and each other. Little Eden was so precious and added to the family vibe that was needed for everyone.
I highly recommend any of Karen’s books. They are all clean, wholesome romances that point us to God as our help in times of trouble.
I’m a fan of Karen’s books and this new one is just wonderful. The ending of the mystery I didn’t see coming. But the sweet affection between Nash and Skye was touching and I was rooting for them both to overcome their past heartaches and try again to find acceptance in God and each other. Little Eden was so precious and added to the family vibe that was needed for everyone.
I highly recommend any of Karen’s books. They are all clean, wholesome romances that point us to God as our help in times of trouble.
February 22, 2023
The murder of a young mother sets into motion a series of events. As the investigation proceeds, a female officer is given protection duty for the murdered woman’s child. She must try to protect her while trying to solve the reason the child may also be in danger. Add to the plot, the officer must team up with a old enemy to solve the mysteries. There is no time to waste!
The pages turn themselves as one seeks to learn the truth and how it will affect the characters involved!
Highly recommend!
The pages turn themselves as one seeks to learn the truth and how it will affect the characters involved!
Highly recommend!
February 25, 2023
“Guarding His Child” by Karen Kirst features rancher Nash Wilder and law enforcement officer Skye Saddler.
Skye is tasked to protection detail for Eden, when the child’s mother is found dead.
Nash is stunned to learn he’s Eden's father and, when someone comes after him and his daughter, he and Skye go in search of the killer.
Ms. Kirst creates three-dimensional characters and a small-town suspense story with a shocking ending.
Skye is tasked to protection detail for Eden, when the child’s mother is found dead.
Nash is stunned to learn he’s Eden's father and, when someone comes after him and his daughter, he and Skye go in search of the killer.
Ms. Kirst creates three-dimensional characters and a small-town suspense story with a shocking ending.
March 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this clean, Romantic Suspense. I bought this at a local store and I voluntarily chose to review this story. I've given it a 5* rating. What man wants to find out he has a child he does not know about? So starts this story that pulls you in quickly with a murder and now motherless child. This story has a lot of suspects that quickly start being dismissed. A brutal murder followed by bullets flying. Can this be figured out before they are dead themselves?
February 22, 2023
There's danger in Tulip, Mississippi.
Will Nash and Skye make it out alive? Will the killer be caught? Join the hunt for the killer in Guarding His Child.
This book is a page turner that I finished in such a short time. It's a suspense story, a thriller, a murder, a love story and redemption. I highly recommend you grabbing this today!
Will Nash and Skye make it out alive? Will the killer be caught? Join the hunt for the killer in Guarding His Child.
This book is a page turner that I finished in such a short time. It's a suspense story, a thriller, a murder, a love story and redemption. I highly recommend you grabbing this today!
April 24, 2023
Fantastic
Loved everything about this book, suspense, mystery, drama. This was a real "Who Done It". I love everything that this author put out. This book has murder, attempted murder, arson and so much more. If you love mystery and suspense she will really enjoy this. Kudos to the author👏👏👏👏👏
Loved everything about this book, suspense, mystery, drama. This was a real "Who Done It". I love everything that this author put out. This book has murder, attempted murder, arson and so much more. If you love mystery and suspense she will really enjoy this. Kudos to the author👏👏👏👏👏
January 2, 2025
Karen Kirst's story, "Guarding His Child" was exciting, suspenseful and fast paced. This story reminded me that past hurts can be healed when confronted with faith, hope, trust, and eventually love. I loved how this story wrapped up the malice that was hidden in a small town, yet love and faith set them free! I give this story 4 out of 5 stars and thoroughly enjoyed my few hours of downtime.
February 21, 2023
Finding out he has a two year old daughter, Nash has to find out who is after his child. He has to work with the police, Skyler, an old friend who dislikes him, to fund out who is after them. Lots of fast action, !ots of suspense, likeable characters and faith and romance, makes thus a great read!
March 1, 2023
Rancher Nash Wilder just learned that he has a child he did not know he had. His child's mother was murdered and he has to depend on Deputy Skye Saddler his nemesis to keep him and his daughter safe. Can they find her murderer before they are killed? Buy this book to find the answer.
April 16, 2023
A fun mystery with an adorable little girl, and a surprising ending made this story an excellent read. Karen’s books are always ones I enjoy, and this was a good start to her new series. It kept me guessing throughout and had a satisfying ending.
March 9, 2023
I enjoyed reading this book
March 21, 2023
Quick easy read
April 4, 2023
Review of book
This book kept me guessing. I'm glad it wasn't filled with sex and bad language. Very good read. Thank you.
This book kept me guessing. I'm glad it wasn't filled with sex and bad language. Very good read. Thank you.
April 12, 2023
Great story. Ending was a big surprise.
June 7, 2023
Love it
October 22, 2023
Truly enjoying this series!
June 14, 2024
An unexpected ending - just the way suspense should be!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews