What could unite a disgruntled DA and the pretty teacher, responsible for his hung jury? Perhaps his little boy in need of love…

One of her first graders sparks her concern.

Beginning teacher, Patience knows first hand what getting a reputation for trouble-making may do to a child’s future. She sets out to prevent this.

But a stint of jury duty takes her out of the classroom, away from Jackson, and into conflict with Jackson’s dad, by-the-book DA Gil Montgomery.

He knows more about his small town and the law than she does.

When her lone “not guilty” vote results in a hung jury, it means Gil will have to try the case again. For her part, Patience’s upset that her absence has “injured” Jackson. He’s been branded the “class troublemaker,” just what she was trying to prevent.

He wants what’s best for his son,

but Gil’s former wife’s parenting conflicts with his. As irritated as he is with Patience, he soon realizes she is the key to helping him to deal better with his son. Patience is more than willing to help.

But is Gil willing to “hear” her as she uncovers evidence for the re-trial?

Can she change his mind about who assaulted an elderly woman and stole her valuable antiques? A heartwarming Christian romantic suspense you don't want to miss.by a USA Today bestselling author of 50 novels.

“Sweet, heartwarming romance with some intrigue--I love The Heart Hopes. I felt immediately drawn to Patience, Gil and Jackson. While the series is Opposites Attract both Patience and Gil have a lot of baggage from their childhoods. Until they learn to forgive…, they will not heal from the hurt… Who is responsible for the theft of antiques?…There is a ton of well written drama in this book. Ms. Cote manages to tie up all the lose ends and bring this book to a most satisfying conclusion. I could not put it down.”

Originally published as Testing His Patience in 2004.