Between the trifecta of physical wounds, memory loss, and the empty numbness, I was a shadow of the man I’d been.
-- Nash Morgan (Chapter 1)

Importance: As this novel opens, Nash feels very bad about himself. Part of this is because of what happened in the previous book in the series where he was shot. He also feels ineffective because he still has physical ailments due to the shooting. He cannot remember what happened, and he doubts his ability to protect the people of the town. This sets the basis for the internal conflict that Nash encounters.

Small towns are where busy professional women get seduced by a rough-around-the-edges local business owner. Ooh! Or a sheriff.
-- Bonnie Solavita (Chapter 2)

Importance: Lina's mother says these words to her. Bonnie wants her daughter to settle down to safety and security, and she sees this as a possibility in Knockemout. In the previous book in the series, Naomi comes to town...