Hearts Beneath Black WaterWhere secrets drown and danger stalks, only love can keep them afloat.Savannah, 1880.Joseph "Tru" McCormack never intended to return home. A year at law school in New York promised him a different life, far from the shadow of his family's lawman legacy. But when duty calls him back to Georgia, Tru finds himself entangled once more in the past-hauling freight, repairing fences, and crossing paths with the one woman he thought he'd left behind.Beth Roundtree has changed since their childhood quarrels. Lovely, sharp, and fiercely loyal, she carries her own burden: doubts about the wealth her father built after a long-ago robbery that nearly cost him his life. When whispers of betrayal resurface, Beth finds herself torn between loyalty to her father and the unsettling attraction rekindling between her and Tru.But danger is closing in. Escaped convict Carl Rowe has returned to Savannah, driven by vengeance and secrets buried in black water. As Tru and Beth are hunted through swamps and shadows, their survival-and their hearts-depend on trust, courage, and a love strong enough to withstand the truth. Winner of the Narrative Voyager Award in 2025 - A native of southeast Georgia, Gary M. Roberts developed a deep appreciation for the natural world from a young age, often exploring the woods, swamps, and wilderness on horseback. His childhood adventures laid the foundation for his passion for writing, which is fueled by his love for adventure, history, and the great outdoors.With a diverse background as an Army veteran, retired police chief, and educator holding a doctorate in theology and a master's in education, Gary brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his writing. He and his wife currently reside on a charming farm in Georgia, where they continue to embrace their connection to nature and the rural lifestyle. As a historical fiction author, I am passionate about bringing the past to life through vivid storytelling and careful research. My novels are inspired by real events, true resilience, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Each story blends fact and imagination, allowing readers to step into another time while finding connections that still resonate today. I write historical fiction books that explore lives shaped by history-stories of courage, hope, and survival. From Southern landscapes to moments of national significance, my work seeks to honor the people who lived through hardship and left behind legacies of strength.What draws me to historical storytelling is the way small, personal moments reflect larger truths. Whether inspired by family history, forgotten events, or places rich with heritage, my novels aim to weave together authenticity and emotion. Readers who enjoy fiction inspired by true stories will find narratives that are both deeply human and rooted in history. My books are not just about the past-they are about understanding how the past continues to shape who we are today. Thank you for joining me on this journey through history and imagination. I hope my stories offer both an escape into another era and a reflection of the timeless resilience of the human spirit. Follow my blog at: https://garymroberts.com
