It's Christmas in New York, and the lone wolf is about to go AWOL for love…

Navy SEAL Murphy Coen should be celebrating the upcoming holidays with friends and family, but with his sister Aileen missing, there's not much for Murph to feel thankful for. To find Aileen, he's fully prepared to use force, until an unexpected encounter has him rethinking his tactics. Shayma, his friend Daveed's former fiancée, is sexy as hell, and something about her soothes his wayward soul. The brunette bombshell claims she can help, but Murph's never been known for his patience. The clock is ticking, and he isn't sure Shayma won't get in the way of doing what he needs to do.

After ending her engagement to the man chosen by her father, Shayma bint Amr Kahlan has been enjoying the sights of New York City…and her ex's best friend Murphy. The menacing military man has the dark, brooding thing down, but Shayma is certain his temper will lead to trouble—trouble his friends don't want him in. When Daveed offers to promote her father if she can keep Murph in check while he and Heath secretly search for Aileen, Shayma sees a chance to help…and get back in her father's good graces. She's happy to prevent Murphy from getting out of hand. Besides, sometimes it takes a softer touch to get what you want.

Shayma and Murphy's chemistry may be undeniable, but as the stakes get higher, can Murphy open himself up to love? Or will he be forced to choose between Shayma and finding his sister?