Critically praised author Robyn Carr populates her "wonderful series [with] fully dimensional characters" (Booklist, starred review). In Shelter Mountain, a burly giant of a man discovers his tender side when his strength is needed most. Stone-faced Marine veteran John "Preacher" Middleton intimidates just about everyone who enters Jack's bar up in Virgin River—a tiny, rough-hewn town overshadowed by California's towering redwoods. But then in walks Paige, a distraught, battered young mother. From his days in combat, Preacher knows a crisis situation when he sees one, and Paige is a clear case. She's desperately seeking protection from her abusive, drug-addicted ex-husband. Stirred by emotions he's buried for years, Preacher promises (Semper Fidelis) to become Paige's guardian—and maybe something more. And Lord help the ex-husband should he dare stalk Paige on Preacher's turf. Acclaimed narrator Thérèse Plummer performs this second novel in Robyn Carr's beloved Virgin River series with dramatic poise.