A mysterious nun eludes arrest for dishing out un-prescribed medications, claiming that they were provided by God, for “He has a plan for everyone.” Tara Reece, a victim, took pills meant for fertility and is pregnant. She turns to Ross Kelly, a childhood friend. They've shared a strong bond, but he wants commitment-something she can’t easily give up- or him either.
While Tara prays for solutions, Lieutenant Commander Daniel Cross wants one too. Women find him old-fashioned in the midst of the turning tides of the late 1970's- a decade known for change and new trends. A Royal Naval mission brings him to NYC, where he meets Ross and Tara on New Years Eve. He shares a musical interest with Ross and he can’t resist Tara’s magnificent eyes. After awhile, Danny convinces them to leave everything for a better life in Wiltshire County, England. Tara marries Danny, even if she doesn’t love him. It's security for her impending children and to get away from the poverty always known.
At the Grand Manor-after introductions to the elite members of the Cross Family-complications occur. Tara’s pregnancy is at risk. Danny’s older brother, Michael, interferes with their marriage and reforms Ross into a “love them and leave them” protégé, who eventually tempts Danny's sisters to compete for his affection. Yet, Ross still wants Tara-even at the sake of putting his new friendship with Danny at risk.
In spite of calamities, can true love surface? Can the miracle of life force them to realize what is truly important? After all the sacrifices, will Tara realize her true destiny while she enflames her lovers souls and capture them “Hostage to Her Heart."
Chriss Hill is a native Central Texan who enjoys several things: traveling, listening to pop/rock music, reading about movie stars and famous singers, fishing, and spending leisure time with her husband, three daughters, one son, and five grandchildren (so far). She is a firm believer of the power of prayer. By day, she works at one of the most prominent hospitals in the region and by evening, she relaxes at her computer; creating stories that combines her passions; that puts characters into unusual situations, weaving their story line into a format simulating a soap opera. Writing has always been a passion discovered early on in life and things really took off after taking a college creative writing course back in 2000. She tackled writing her first novel, “Hostage to Her Heart”, which she hopes can develop enough interest to create a series, about a rock-n-roll “Dynasty-like” extended family that includes musical children created by divine intervention.
As the doctor sewed Tara’s incision closed, the nurses took the infants down to the special neonatal nursery to place under careful watch. Danny followed along. He was given carte blanch to stay as long as he liked, which was a privilege not usually bequeathed. Everyone smiled and gave him congratulatory pats on the back. He marveled over each child, but the last basked in attention.
“Is something wrong?” he asked. The head nurse looked up, but didn’t reply. Instead she used the phone to page one of the doctors. She read over the vitals and statistics that were displayed by the monitors. Within five minutes, he appeared: a tall, lean man wearing spectacles. He took out a cold stethoscope and placed it upon the baby’s bare chest, which made him jump slightly.
“We need further diagnostic tests,” He said, wrote out the order, and looked at Danny, “It’s a heart problem, but after we get the reports, we can determine what to do. It’s not a matter of a simple heart murmur. He may need surgery.”
“How soon?” Danny’s eyes narrowed.
“He’s very small; perhaps, if his weight comes up some, we can do the procedure. I’ll keep you informed.”
The doctor went on his way. The nurse brought over consent forms for Danny to sign.
“The boy will be watched over,” The head nurse looked around, “The others are doing well so far. Why don’t you run along to rest? We’ll keep you posted if there are any changes. I’m sure your family is waiting for news.”
“Yes, of course. I forgot to call with all of the commotion. Good idea,” Danny stammered and his wide-eyed expression made the nurse laugh. She placed a warm hand upon his shoulder.
“It’s an exciting occasion, sir. Very big news. Congratulations, Mr. Cross.”
“Yes, thank you. Thank you for everything.”
Danny left the nursery to stop into Tara’s room. She slept soundly under sedation. One lone IV stand pumped the saline solution and sleeping medication into her veins. He stroked her hair and kissed her forehead gently.
“Congratulations, Tara. They are all here,” he whispered, “You’ve done very well. When you wake up, you will be so surprised, as I was.”