Hunter's Moon by Karen Robards

Attractive Molly Ballard is the sole support of her younger brothers and sisters, struggling to make ends meet by grooming at a Kentucky stable. FBI agent Will Lyman, investigating a racehorse-fixing scheme, catches her stealing cash from the stable and realizes that Molly can help him catch the culprits he seeks. Molly feels she is trapped, but will do as Will asks in order to protect herself and her siblings. Sparks fly, as independent Molly struggles to maintain her dignity and independence in a "no-win" situation, with Will "pretending" to be her boyfriend in order to explain his presence in the area. This is a cohesive narrative that lives up to its promise of mystery, murder and romance. A good read. Sandy P