The Sheriff's Secret Past

by Tina Radcliffe

To give his family the perfect future…

He must face his past

There are only two things on Sheriff Chase Everett’s his upcoming reelection, and adopting his sweet niece after his sister’s death. The last thing he needs to worry about is the new editor of the local newspaper digging into his past. Newcomer Emily Taylor is eager for a juicy scoop for the Aspen Creek Journal, and the handsome sheriff is the perfect subject. But Chase has a dark secret that he’s desperate to hide. He needs to keep his distance from the feisty journalist, which should be easy, until a dog and a little girl bring them together…

From Love  Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Aspen Creek Cowboys

 Book 1: The Sheriff's Secret Past

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Love Inspired, Fiction

208 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published May 26, 2026

About the author

Tina Radcliffe is a Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers Honor Roll member. A five-time ACFW Carol Award finalist, Tina’s Harlequin novels have won the ACFW Carol Award, the Holt Medallion, and appeared on the Publishers Weekly Bestseller list.
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Reviews

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book I have read by this author and the second romance. The main characters, Emily and Chase, in this novel knew each other twelve years prior to the start of this novel when Emily came to town to be an intern at the local newspaper. A lot has happened in the life of Chase since then. This novel has so many things going for it. It has a really cute dog and an adorable little girl who has been through so much. Also I almost always feel like you can tell if a book is good by the secondary characters and this story had some really great ones. The interactions between the main characters are so well written. I really enjoyed their banter. I highly recommend this novel.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. The opinions in this review are my own.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily buys the newspaper where she was previously mentored. It’s a small town where the previous owner of the Aspen Creek Journal let things slide so to speak because of personal issues. I enjoyed reading about Emily’s take charge attitude. Even though she was almost broke after putting her saving into the purchase of the paper, she struggled on with new ideas and ways to get the townsfolk interested and circulation increased. Sheriff Chase is running for reelection but has a secret that could mess up his chance for keeping his job and adopting his niece after the death of his sister. These characters and the sometimes eccentric people of the community won my heart over right away. Of course there was a very surprising ending that I would have never guessed and I loved it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review.

[Jacqueline Johnston Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartwarming, faith filled, small town story with a community and characters you can truly connect with. Emily and Chase were perfect for each other and I loved sweet Sarah and her adorable dog! It’s a beautifully written book of second chances, family, forgiveness and love. It’s hopeful, uplifting and fun with incredible dialog. I was completely entertained and loved it from beginning to end! This is a romance story that will touch your heart and give you all the feels. Simply wonderful! You can't go wrong with a book by Tina Radcliffe.

[Marcena Hooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Chase and Emily’s journey, 12 years in the making. Both had pasts to deal with that held them back from happiness. They find their way through prayer, forgiveness, and determination. A county sheriff and the newspaper editor/owner are a perfect combination! Loved this story.

[Jess]

I was given the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Tina Radcliffe's first book in a brand new series that takes place in Aspen Creek, Colorado. This book is Chase and Emily's story as well as Chase's neice Sarah. Chase is the Sheriff of Aspen Creek and Emily is the new owner and Editor in Chief of the towns newspaper. Chase is reluctant to get too close to Emily especially with an election coming up and the fact she is digging into the past, afraid she'll find out about his past and destroy life as he knows it as well as the progress he is making with adopting Sarah and the trauma his mother dealt with in the past as well.

He finds he doesn't have as much to worry about as he feared while slowly falling in love with Emily. I definitely give this book five stars and can't wait to read book 2 in the series when it comes out.

[Witchy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ramblings:
This novel includes a prologue, the main story, an epilogue, and a note to the reader from the author. Make sure to read the inside of the back cover! It'll explain how to download a free book from Love Inspired.

Reviewer Summary:
Emily Taylor has just landed her dream job! It seems almost heaven sent to be the new editor and publisher of the Aspen Creek Journal. Until she realizes-it's sinking quicker than the Titanic. Her newspaper is barely staying afloat while her competitor, The Paradise Gazette, continues gaining popularity and readership.

She needs a breaking story. And the upcoming elections for town sheriff may be that break. Em will have to uncover everything she can on Chase Everett (the current sheriff) and Buster Ruthorford (the challenger).

The problem with hidden truths though- they're hidden for a reason!

Review:
The Sheriff's Secret Past by Tina Radcliffe is the first installment of the Aspen Creek Cowboys series. Its release date is set for May 26th, 2026. My understanding is that the second book is titled A K-9 Christmas Blessing and although a November book will actually be released on Oct. 27th, 2026. Aside from being part of this series, it's also considered #50 in the Love Inspired K-9 Companions series. Correct me if I'm wrong.

What I find appealing about small town stories are the friendly nature of its residents and Aspen Creek has them aplenty. You'll enjoy meeting the locals: Ralph the pharmacist, Sloane the tea merchant, Vesta from the vet, Lucy the florist, and Ryan the volunteer firefighter.

Originally, I thought the campaign would be the focal point of the novel. Who garnered more attention? Byron a labernese dog. Dog lovers take note!

I enjoyed Chase throwing rocks at Emily's window. Made me think of the song "Red Dirt Road" by Brooks & Dunn. Because we don't really get to know Chase's friend and rancher Dylan Harris, I'd love it if he'd get his own story. Or series. After all, aren't some ranchers also cowboys?!😉🤠

You'll like this story if:
#1 You're a fan of friends-to-lovers
#2 Get mushy when strays get their forever home
#3 Love a man in uniform
#4 Have an aversion to explicit romance (this one's clean)
#5 Enjoy small town stories

Tags/Themes:
Adoption; Advice Columns; Christian Romance; Clean Romance; Contemporary Romance; Dog Lover; Fiction; Flawed Past; Forgiveness; Friends-to-Lovers; Grief; Inspirational Romance; Journalism; New Beginnings; New Identity; Pets; Police; Redemption Theme; Secret Past; Sheriff; Single Father; Small Town

Disclosure:
I received a complimentary physical ARC of The Sheriff's Secret Past from the author. My review is an honest reflection of my thoughts, opinions, and ramblings.

[Sherida Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this story…the first in a new series! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I’m ready to move to Aspen Creek, Colorado! Small town romances are my favorite. I love the close communities which support each other, the charming main streets with cute shops and fun foodie places to explore….plus the friendly neighbors who encourage others with their faith-filled wisdom, plus, of course, the protective heroes and the strong women they love.

When Emily Taylor returns to town and buys the local newspaper where she interned one summer, she didn’t expect some of the challenging issues confronting her dream of running the small press. Sheriff Chase Everett, a former acquaintance, is surprised to find Emily has come back. With an incident in his past he hopes isn’t revealed, he is worried about an election to retain his office, but also is concerned about adopting his orphaned niece, Sarah.

The developing relationship between the couple is sweet…and faith-filled. I liked the compassion expressed by the characters and the forgiveness offered. The precious child, Sarah, and the cute puppy, Byron, added to the enjoyment of this romance. The twist at the end was a surprise….and the resolution is just right.

Author Tina Radcliffe writes sweet romances with great characters in settings where you want to spend more time. I’m so excited the Aspen Creek Cowboys series will continue as I want to know more about the various folks of this small community….and sample more treats as featured in the story. Salted caramel brownies, lemon cream cheese icebox cake, sprinkles on ice cream? Yes, please! And, yes, I highly recommend The Sheriff’s Secret Past!

Favorite quotes:

“Sometimes good things happen when you least expect it and when you think you can’t possibly manage one more thing in your life. And sometimes, they end up being the missing piece in your life.”

“Gram promised me she’d be waiting for me at the entrance to the pearly gates,”

*I received an advance copy of this book with no requirement to write a review. I’m offering my honest opinion.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy reading small town romance books. There is just something special about small towns. The sense of community with people who truly care for one another and want to make sure everyone is taken care of warms my soul. Aspen Creek is one of those special places where Sheriff Chase Everett is in charge.

I knew I was going to like Chase immediately. He was a man that a woman could easily fall in love with. He served his community well, but his most important focus in life was adopting his niece, Sarah. Chase's sister passed away, and he has been caring for her ever since.

Emily Taylor has bought the local newspaper, the Aspen Creek Journal. She knows she has a hard job ahead of her as this small town newspaper is not doing so well.

I also liked Emily because even though she was a reporter, she had values. She did not mind digging and researching subject matter, but she brought a humane side to everything she wrote.

The star of the show is a rescue name Byron. Byron was so funny. He was going to be as big a moose, but he was terrified of going up and down stairs. Byron is exactly what the doctor ordered for Sarah. This dog, whose paws are bigger than his body, steals the show and provides exactly what everyone needs.

This entire cast of characters were fantastic. Though this book was just a little over 200 pages, it had a lot of great stuff packed into those pages from a new love column in the newspaper, political rivalry, The Soul Sisters (lovingly referred to as "Darth Vader in skirts" by Chase) and realizing that sometimes people crave to feel needed. It does wonders for their attitude. There was a little twist at the end that shocked me, but was just the right thing needed to complete this story.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It is perfect light read with charm, wit, a faith element, heartwarming romance and a likable cast of characters that make it easy to read and easy to like.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've gained a new favorite author! If you like small town contemporary romance with a unique cast of characters with their own style of kookiness, a touch of mystery, a sweet little girl, and an adorable dog named Bryon (Lord Byron), then you'll love Tina Radcliffe's first book in the Aspen Creek, Colorado series.

The Sheriff's Secret Past is sprinkled with lots of humor and highlighted by a sweet little girl and a precious pup named Bryon who comes into the heroine's life at the perfect moment.

Emily Taylor returns to Aspen Creek, Colorado; she is the "Spunky Kid" archetype heroine who is determined to bring back to life her newly bought newspaper business. Chase Taylor, the Aspen Creek sheriff is surprised to see Emily and he's immediately wary of her "nose for news" because he is harboring a secret - one that can make or break his career.

The characters who populate Aspen Creek are very unique and kooky, who will steal you heart and make you turn the pages of the story. You'll laugh at the Soul Sisters group of ladies and they will definitely warm your heart! At the end I didn't want to say goodbye and close the book.

I do hope Tina Radcliffe has in mind to write some of the other characters' stories, such as Harley's, Moss', and Hope's. On page 127 in the paperback book the conversation between Chase and Murphy will have you rolling with laughter.

This is an adorable romantic story and I want to read more stories from Aspen Creek! Check out Tina Radcliffe's website for Vintage recipes from the Soul Sisters and lots of news about the next books coming out in the Aspen Creek series......

I was gifted a print copy from Ms. Radcliffe and this review is my own thoughts. I highly recommend this story...Emily and Chase, the heroine and hero, are meant to be together and their story, as well as the other cast of characters, will stay with you long after you close the book!

[Winnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Sometimes good things happen when you least expect it and when you think you can’t possibly manage one more thing in your life. And sometimes, they end up being the missing piece in your life.”

Talented author Tina Radcliffe is the queen of small-town romances. I always love the homey, down-to-earth characters and the charming, delightful stories she writes. The Sheriff’s Secret Past is the first book in her new Aspen Creek Cowboys series, and I’m already in love with all the people in Aspen Creek, Colorado.

“This town has a total of four gun shops, but only one grocery store. Our citizens take their Second Amendment rights more seriously than their avocados.”

The main characters, new owner and editor of the Aspen Creek newspaper Emily Taylor, and Sheriff Chase Everett, are engaging, realistic, and well-crafted. Furthermore, the attraction is still there from when they first met several years ago. When Chase finds that he’s going to be facing an election for his job, the last thing he wants is for Emily to be digging around in his past. He doesn’t need any scandal to ruin his chances for re-election or adopting his niece, Sarah. A stellar cast of supporting characters adds much fun and enjoyment to the story. Some of my favorites are the Soul Sisters, adorable Sarah, and Byron the dog.

Filled with witty, fun banter and heart-warming inspirational observations, this story kept me turning pages and smiling to the satisfying end. I’m looking forward to meeting more Aspen Creek Cowboys in the future. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sheriff's Secret Past by Tina Radcliffe
To give his family the perfect future…
He must face his past

There are only two things on Sheriff Chase Everett’s mind: his upcoming reelection, and adopting his sweet niece after his sister’s death. The last thing he needs to worry about is the new editor of the local newspaper digging into his past. Newcomer Emily Taylor is eager for a juicy scoop for the Aspen Creek Journal, and the handsome sheriff is the perfect subject. But Chase has a dark secret that he’s desperate to hide. He needs to keep his distance from the feisty journalist, which should be easy, until a dog and a little girl bring them together…

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
My favorite quote is
“Community is the best part of a small town.”

Emily continued, “And as sheriff, I suspect you’re in everyone’s business routinely.”

Chase reached for his coffee. “Maybe so, but I don’t go looking for trouble, and I keep my mouth closed.”

She shrugged and drizzled a copious amount of syrup from the little glass jar onto her pancakes. “I guess I’ll find out what I need to know when I complete an in-depth exposé on both candidates.”

Chase froze with his mug held midair. “What do you mean, in-depth exposé?”

“Your background, et cetera.”
I recommend reading this book.
The Sheriff's Secret Past by Tina Radcliffe is a 5-star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Tina Radcliffe
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.

[William J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would like to thank Goodreads and Tina Radcliffe for sending me a copy of this Love Inspired Inspirational Romance that I very much enjoyed reading. Emily Taylor, the new editor and publisher of Aspen Creek Journal has returned to Aspen Creek after 12 years to make Aspen Creek her home, save the Journal by revitalizing it with her new ideas and to try and pull the small community together. Emily hasn't spoken to her father, Douglas Baker, in five years and she kept her mother's maiden name to avoid her father's notoriety. He cut her off financially after he failed to manipulate her career and tried to buy her a fiance. He also kept her in the dark about her grandmother's whereabouts. She later found her grandmother who recently passed away and left Emily her 1963 Volkswagen Beetle. Chase Everett is the town's Sheriff. He has something in his past he is hiding. He and Emily had met 12 years ago and both were attracted to each other. Now she is back and he finds himself interested in her. Chase is running again for Sheriff this time not unopposed. He is also trying to adopt his sister's seven year old daughter, Sarah, because his sister died about a year ago. This warm novel had a dog named Byron whom Emily adopted and is filled with a small community of people that help each other. I liked the Soul Sisters, Chase's Mom Hope, Dispatches from the heart that was part of the Journal, quotes from the scripture and Emily's prayer "Lord, help me to be discerning and gracious and think before I open my mouth. Amen." I highly recommend that you buy, gift, but most importantly read this novel that has a happy unexpected surprise ending. I know you won't be disappointed.

[Jane Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes God gives you a book that you can relate to in many ways. Tina Radcliffe's, "The Sheriff's Secret Past" is that for me. I loved the story and the characters so much. I knew right away when I read the Bible verse at the beginning. Proverbs 3:5 is one of my favorite verses. Byron was so relatable to my sweet fur baby, Kali. She is almost the same breed mix.

In their own situations, each of the characters in the story had to do just what that verse said, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding."

Sheriff Everett, with his secret past, and his niece, Sarah, were newcomers to town and faced many new adjustments. Emily Taylor's return to town brought many new challenges for her as well. Then there's Byron. Who doesn't love a sweet loving dog. I loved his little challenge with the stairs. I enjoyed following all of their paths and seeing how they each dealt with those challenges. I love newspapers and the Aspen Creek Journal reminds me of our free weekly newspaper. It was so much fun reading about the new feature, the advice column, that Emily added to her paper to draw more customers.

Get yourself a copy of "The Sheriff's Secret Past" by Tina Radcliffe and visit Aspen Creek, Colorado. You will find yourself deeply involved with each of the characters and wanting to know more. I know I do. I enjoy her books and this one is very special to me. This is my honest review.

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet story with second chance romance vibes, insta-family, a fun community, and a really sweet thread of faith and forgiveness mixed in.

Chase is up for Sheriff once again, but this time he’s running against someone. With a new journalist in town, she could either help or hurt his campaign as he tries to win over the community. But more concerning than a new paper owner is the fact that Emily (the papers new owner) wants to dig into his past for an article, and that’s exactly why he’s so wary of her. With the adoption of his niece still up in the air, too much digging could turn into a real problem.

The simple solution would be to keep his distance… but that gets complicated when his niece starts gravitating toward Emily, and his heart isn’t exactly listening to his head.

I really loved the second chance vibe and watching Chase start out cautious and suspicious of Emily, but slowly begin to let his walls come down. And seeing Chase, Emily, Sarah, and Byron together was just so cute. The side characters really added a lot to the story too. I struggled a little with this one pulling me in, which isn't a norm for me, but it doesn't impact my desire to read more books by Tina, she's an amazing writer. I am looking forward to what Tina writes next!

I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was hard for me to pick a favorite character in this book! I seem to have this problem with this author's books! She always writes memorable characters that are realistic and heartfelt. Here are my thoughts:
I loved Chase because he had such a love of family and his town. He has great compassion for others and a sense of right & wrong. His past is a dark cloud to him that hangs over him but he's trying to come to terms with it. He doesn't think he should have a woman in his life until Emily comes to town and challenges that thought!
Chase's niece, Sarah, was just the sweetest! She has suffered a tragedy and is naturally solemn but with tender care, she might be happy again. Chase is trying to adopt her and doing his best but it's Emily and her sweet dog that is connecting with Sarah the most.
Emily wants to prove herself on her own terms after a lifetime of her father trying to run her life. She buys the local paper in Aspen Creek even though it's struggling. She's going to make it a success with new ideas and true grit. I loved her office staff! A lost dog adopts her and it changes her life! Chase is changing her in ways she never thought and she's happy about it!
The other townspeople are so great and add a lot to the story! A great book all around!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this small town romance for Emily Taylor and Chase Everett in Aspen Creek, Colorado. They met twelve years earlier when Emily was an intern journalist for the Aspen Creek Journal while in college. Like most small towns, the newspaper only comes out once a week. Since the current editor and owner of the Aspen Creek Journal, Grace, is retiring; Emily bought the 75 year old newspaper with its two part-time employees. She spent most of her savings to become the owner and editor so decides to live in the apartment above her office. Her first encounter with Sheriff Chase Everett is when she sees him putting a parking ticket on her car because she parked in a loading zone. That comical moment turns into a friendship that helps Emily revive the dying newspaper while she helps Chase with the upcoming election as Sheriff. He has an opponent for the first time in his four years as Sheriff but he has a tragic past that he does not want uncovered since he is trying to adopt his niece that he has been caring for since his sister died. Will the enthusiasm of the new editor help or hurt Chase? You will have to read the book to find out. The characters are wonderful and I highly recommend this inspirational small town romance with a hidden mystery. This is my voluntary and honest review.

[Michelle Dodge · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a clean and Christian read.

Emily has returned to Aspen Cove, Colorado to purchase the small town newspaper, the Aspen Creek Journal. It’s been a dream of her to own a small newspaper and she had interned here in college and loved it. One of her first run ins is the local sheriff, Chase. Chase lives here with his niece. He’s hoping to adopt her. His mom is living with him right now helping out. He has just found out that the mayor changed to law to allow his nephew on the ballot as a challenger to Chase’s position. Chase is worried about the newspaper digging into his past. Can Chase outsmart the newspaper? Will Emily find out about his past if she keeps digging? Will it hinder the adoption?

This was a good book about what we sometimes think is insurmountable isn’t. It shows us how God works in mysterious ways. Small towns are great for being nosy, but they are also great for coming together to support one of their own. I liked how Emily is not one of the cut-throat type of reporters. Chase needs to learn how to have more faith. A definite must read.


I received an ARC from the author and am leaving an honest review.

[Elaine Coghlan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sheriff's Secret Past ~ Aspen Creek Cowboys #1 by Tina Radcliffe

This is a beautiful, well-written story and a wonderful start to a new series. It was also my first book by Tina Radcliffe, and I was impressed by her engaging storytelling and memorable characters.

I especially loved Sheriff Chase Everett and Emily Taylor, the new owner of the Aspen Creek Journal. Emily quickly discovers that running the newspaper will require far more work, dedication, and financial investment than she originally expected. As she struggles to save the journal, she finds herself drawn to Chase, a respected sheriff who is hiding secrets from his past.

The mystery surrounding Chase's history adds an intriguing layer to the story. I found myself wondering whether Emily would uncover the truth and, if she did, whether she would publish it in her newspaper. The romance, small-town setting, and well-developed characters kept me turning the pages.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am excited to continue with the Aspen Creek Cowboys series. I look forward to reading the next installment and becoming more familiar with Tina Radcliffe's work.

[Renee Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect example of overcoming and making life better! Emily Taylor moves to Aspen Creek after purchasing the newspaper where 12 years before, she did her journalism internship . Trying to escape her rich father who is trying to control her life, she put everything she has into turning the failing newspaper in the black . Sheriff Chase Everett, has a lot going on in his life. Adopting his young niece after he sister passed away is number one on his priorities, but now that elections are coming up and he desperately needs to win for his and his nieces future, and since his only opponent is very questionable and he doesn’t want to jeopardize his town. Emily, is insisting that she does an in-depth investigation into both candidates. It shouldn’t be a problem except Chase has a secret from twenty years before, that can cost him everything. I love this storyline and all of the characters. How they handled the situations and relied on each other and had to trust new friends. Can Emily make a success out of the newspaper without ruining her new friend’s life? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Susie Sellner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sheriff Chase Everett is highly evasive with the new newspaper owner/editor, Emily Taylor, to avoid her discovery of a past of which he's ashamed. He's planning to adopt his deceased sister's young daughter and doesn't want anything to disrupt that plan. Meanwhile Emily is an adorable character; in fact, she's even enchanted the sheriff, whom she knew when she interned at this same small-town newspaper some years before. Emily charms Chase's niece and his mother, who both warm up to Emily and share with her about Chase. Byron, Emily's rescue dog, and Emily's sweet personality bring the niece out of her shell of grief and shock over her mother's death. While both Chase and Emily face numerous challenges, they persevere and support each other. I loved the slow magnetism that Chase felt toward Emily, and her excitement every time she saw him. The book was well written, humorous, and absolutely delightful!
[While the author provided a copy of the book, the opinions are my honest evaluation of the book.]

[Heather Pickett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y'all, I love starting a new series. Starting one by author Tina Radcliffe is even better. In The Sheriff's Secret Past, Sheriff Chase Everett has a lot going on. Mainly his reelection and getting full custody of his orphaned niece. Emily Taylor is back in town after buying the struggling local newspaper. She needs a good story. He wants to keep his past quiet.
Chase is kind and steadfast. Emily is plucky and sweet. Both are smart and caring. She was attracted to him a decade plus earlier, and he kept his distance then. It's a fun read to see how that is more difficult now. I love the faith thread. It shows how the Lord is working through their hearts and guiding them to one another. I also love the secondary characters. Is there a house for sale in Aspen Creek? I've love to have tea with Sloane or pick up my meds from Ralph. Plus pet Byron the dog!
I enjoyed this story so much, plus it has my favorite, an epilogue!
My thanks for the complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are entirely my own.

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Chase and Emily's story!! Byron the Labernese and Sarah, Chase's niece, steal the scenes, though!! Chase and Emily first met twelve years ago, when she came to Aspen Creek to intern at the local newspaper. Now, she's back as the owner, and Chase is the Sheriff. The attraction they both felt twelve years ago is still there, stronger than ever. Now, though, Chase can't afford for Emily to find out his secret, not when he's trying to adopt his niece and help her get through her grief. When Sarah and Emily meet, though, Sarah interacts with her a little more than normal, and when Byron is around, Sarah is more like she was before her mother died. As Chase and Emily come to know each other more, will Chase learn he can trust her with his secret, and will he finally be able to forgive himself, as God has?? Love how everything works out!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[Joy Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily Taylor is back in Aspen, Colorado after twelve years. She was an intern at the local newspaper for one summer, now she is back as the owner. She is praying that she can leave the past behind her and start fresh, especially after just losing her grandmother. Chase Everett is the sheriff of the town and is in the process of adopting his young niece after his sister passed away. It's also an election year and the mayor's nephew is running against him. Chase has reservations about Emily being back in town, and worried about her finding out about his past. Will Chase be able to win the election and be able to finalize the adoption? How will Emily react when her someone from her past comes to town? While reading this story you will fall in love with little Sarah and the antics of a puppy named Byron. I can't wait to read more of this new series. I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are what I thought of the book.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a faith-based romance that takes place in the quaint little town of Aspen Creek, Colorado. It deals with a romance between Chase, the town sheriff who has a secret he does not want revealed, and Emily, a journalist that recently returned to town dealing with some family and job issues. I really enjoyed the story lines and the characters in the book. I loved the bond between little girl Sarah and the dog Byron. There were some moments that involved Sarah and Byron that were very touching and heart-warming and others that made me laugh. The dog really helped Sarah come out of her shell and deal with the loss of her mother. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I hope there is one that features Harley as I liked her also in this book and would like to learn more about her story line.

I was given an advanced reader's copy of this book, but it did not sway my opinion in any way. I really enjoyed this book and will recommend it to others.

[Deborah K DeLaVina · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author did a great job laying the story out. The Sheriff and the Newspaper Editor have a past. When their paths cross it makes for a very interesting story. She moves to aspen Creek, CO to buy the newspaper where he is currently the sheriff with an upcoming campaign. He holds a deep secret from his past and is concerned that she will uncover it as she digs for her campaign publication. On top of the election he’s raising his niece due to his sister’s death and in the process of adopting her. His mother is there helping him through it all. The journalist is also escaping her past because of an overpowering, influential attorney father. How they maneuver through all is beyond my comprehension but somehow they do. The last few chapters had me thinking about the fact that the story could go very wrong and I hoped it wouldn’t. I was expecting it to happen in a very serious situation but was extremely happy with the ending. A great read!

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a heartwarming story. I love Aspen Creek! It sounds like a wonderful place to live, with so much community, an interesting group of residents, and Byron the dog. Chase Everett is the town’s sheriff, and Emily Taylor is the new owner of the local paper. They met years before and unexpectedly meet again in their new town roles. Chase is trying to keep a secret as he fears it may ruin his career and his plan to adopt his niece. Emily is trying to revitalize the paper and provide needed information to the residents including profiles of the candidates for sheriff. Following their story as they try to keep secrets, fight renewed feelings, and thrive in their community and faith made for an enjoyable story. I cannot wait for more Aspen Creek stories. I voluntarily read an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Natalya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tina Radcliffe never disappoints! The Sheriff's Secret Past was a delightful blend of mystery, romance, and faith, but my favorite part - as always - was the banter between the characters. I found myself chuckling throughout the book because the dialogue is so witty, natural, and full of personality. The playful exchanges make the characters feel real and their relationships all the more enjoyable.
Along with an engaging mystery and a sweet romance, the story offers plenty of heart and a reminder that grace and second chances are always possible. If you're looking for a light romantic read with memorable characters and plenty of smiles along the way, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Tina Radcliffe has a gift for making readers feel like they're catching up with old friends - and I can't wait for the next book!

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love second chance stories and this is a great one! The sheriff, Chase Everett is recovering from his sister's death and trying to raise his niece who is also grieving. At the same time, he discovers that a relative of the mayor is running for sheriff and his job may be in jeopardy. To complicate things further, the new editor of the local paper, Emily Taylor, wants to use the election to help the paper recover. Between all of this, add a lost dog, past secrets/pain and an old relationship, this story just draws you in. Wait until you meet some of the "characters" that live in Aspen Creek!! I'm so glad that this is part of a series! I can't wait to find out what happens with the people who live here. I received an advance copy from the author but all opinions are my own.

[Carolyn Frazier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed The Sheriff's Secret Past. It is a sweet story of a sheriff trying to adopt his recently orphaned niece. When the new editor of the small-town newspaper decides to write in-depth articles on him and his election opponent, he is terrified she will unearth his hidden past. He tries to resist the pretty editor, but when her dog bonds with his grieving niece, he cannot avoid spending time with her. The niece is endearing and the dog is entertaining. There are a some heart-tugging moments that make the already intriguing story that much more engaging.

Tina Radcliffe is a must-read author for me because she writes such heartfelt, captivating, inspirational books. I received an advance copy to read. This is my honest opinion and I highly recommend this book.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome to Aspen Creek where neighbors look out for each other and no one is a stranger. I loved getting to know Emily Taylor as she works on reviving the local struggling newspaper. She has great ideas for helping it to succeed, including featuring Chase, the current sheriff and a man who is definitely eligible!

This is a story of a developing relationship between Emily and Chase and one that the people of Aspen Creek want to encourage. I enjoyed this first book in the series and look forward to reading more.

Things to enjoy:
small town
local newspaper
re-election race
single dad
secret crush
friends to more

I received a copy of the book from the author and JustRead Publicity Tours. All opinions are my own.