Pride can work against you -- especially if it prevents you from breaking free of guilt over events from your past -- events that were beyond your control. Being stoic is commendable but silence often leads to misconceptions of indifference or worse. Sam Robertson's life was filled with hurt and disappointment, but he was doing his best to overcome past mistakes and was now a valued member of his small close knit town. But it seemed his past was once again catching up to him. This time in the form of a surprise visit by his ex-wife Ronnie who left behind an unexpected gift -- his four-year-old daughter Becky -- a child he hadn't known existed.

When Ronnie up and left him five years ago, he had to deal with anger, hurt and, if were honest with himself, relief. It was just another chapter of a life seemingly filled with bad decisions and regrets. But the lovely little girl sitting in his home, a virtual stranger enchanted him and at the same time scared him to death. Just how was he supposed to care for a four year old and then he realized this special child was deaf. Never one to back down from challenges and responsibility, his first step was to apply to the court for official custody. But the surprises didn't end there as another person appeared on his doorstep -- his ex-sister-in-law Kayla who planned to take Becky back home. It would seem Ronnie had made a habit of dropping off her young daughter without notice and taking off for long stretches of time. But Kayla couldn't understand why Ronnie would leave Becky with the ex-husband who she had claimed was indifferent, uncaring, and abusive. Surely Ronnie was under duress and Kayla was determined to do everything in her power to get Becky back -- even face the judge and file her own petition for custody. Kayla's image of Sam was built on the lies fabricated by her sister -- and before she could start to trust him she had to open her eyes and accept that fact. Sam was the strong silent type who mastered the art of non- communication and built an almost impervious wall of pride surrounding him -- easier and safer to remain silent then risk getting hurt opening up to anyone. But that was the key to any relationship and Sam desired one with Becky and Kayla -- could love finally breach those walls?

This is a heartwarming tale about the importance of communication between people in any relationship. The story is an extraordinary narrative incorporating sign language enabling Becky to speak her mind and dialog with those around her. Instead of making Becky silent -- White Daille gave her a voice, and what a voice she had. Reminiscent of Catherine Anderson and Deborah Smith who often give special people great voices -- Barbara White Daille can add me to her fans.

Book Summary

Sam Robertson's life just changed. In one short day, he found out that he's a daddy; that his beautiful little girl, Becky, is deaf; and that her aunt, sign language teacher Kayla Ward, intends to fight him for custody.

There are plenty of reasons Sam shouldn't fall for Kayla. A city girl like her has no place on his ranch, particularly when she's his ex-wife's gorgeous sister. But thanks to the judge's orders, Sam's spending a lot of time with Kayla, trying to give Becky the stable home she's never known.

Despite their ongoing custody battle, Sam and Kayla's love for Becky brings them closer than they ever expected, and Sam knows that no matter who wins in court, he could still lose—Kayla or his daughter.

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