She's a haunted runaway forced to hide from a brutal past. He's a charismatic businessman who despises deception. Can they overcome the lies that separate them and embrace a passion worth everything? California, 1871: Sarah Wyndham has lived a double life since escaping her abusive family and a forced marriage. Fleeing to San Francisco, the gifted mathematician lives incognito as a mousey secretary, in constant terror of discovery. Hawaiian sugar merchant Kaleo Manolo sees beyond the disguise however, and when Sarah’s secrets put her in grave danger, the handsome super surfer steps in as her protector. Traumatised by her brutal past, Sarah is ashamed to tell her story. And she knows her desperate attempt to maintain her secrets could cost Kaleo his life. Burned by her off-handed dishonesty, Kaleo battles growing feelings for a woman whose silence raises alarm bells over her integrity. He’s convinced she is hiding something, but he's determined to keep her safe, even if it means standing against a powerful enemy As they navigate a treacherous web of lies and revenge, Will Sarah learn to trust him enough to confide her shame-filled story? Or will Kaleo’s determination to do the right thing lead to him paying the ultimate price? With time running out and their lives on the line, Sarah and Kaleo risk everything for a chance at freedom. But after Sarah's deception, will Kaleo still believe the truth of her heart? Ancient Deception is the mesmerizing ninth book in the Of Gold & Blood historical mystery series. If you like brilliant heroines, principled heroes, and deadly games of cat and mouse, then you'll love Jenny Wheeler's captivating tale of secrets and sacrifice. Buy Ancient Deception to unravel the web of lies today!