The town of Cedar Ridge had always looked picturesque from a distance.
Nestled between forest-covered mountains and a crystal-clear lake, it was the kind of place travel magazines described as “peaceful” and “charming.”
But anyone who had lived there long enough knew a different truth.
Every small town had its secrets.
And Cedar Ridge had more than its fair share.
No one understood that better than Emma Lawson.
At thirty-four, Emma had built a quiet life for herself. She worked as a wildlife photographer, spending more time among towering pine trees and mountain trails than at social gatherings.
She preferred it that way.
Nature didn’t gossip.
Animals didn’t betray trust.
People, unfortunately, often did.
