Jackson Rule
Rebecca Hill is a preacher's daughter and Jackson Rule is a convicted killer. But Rebecca sees something in the handsome, stoic man that reassures her, and she hires him to work in her greenhouse, much to the dismay of her father.  For Jackson, the job Rebecca offers him is an opportunity for honest work and a decent life. He's deeply attracted to Rebecca, but he's a man not only molded by years in prison, but scarred to his soul by the violence of his childhood. Rebecca struggles to come to terms with her growing feelings for Jackson and his reluctance to see a future for them. When defending Jackson causes a rift with her father, she refuses to back down.  And it isn't until tragedy strikes a beloved friend that Jackson teaches the preacher an important lesson about drawing conclusions from outward appearances and past mistakes.  Still, a future for Rebecca and Jackson seems doubtful until a heroic act sets in motion events that change forever how the world views Jackson Rule. Dinah McCall's book is intensely emotional, with a strong plot and vivid characterizations. It's easy to see why this skillful contemporary received the prestigious Janet Dailey Award in 1996.--Lois Faye Dyer