From New York Times bestselling author Erica Vetsch comes a stirring western romance (part of the Journeys of the Heart anthology):
Steve Ketchum loves being a trail boss, almost as much as he hates river crossings. But it’s part of the job. As is moving an abandoned wagon out of the ford. But when he goes to haul it away, he’s stunned to see what’s inside.
Kitty Fareholm’s good-for-nothing husband picked a lousy time to die. How could he leave her stranded, birthing a baby in the middle of nowhere? She’d prayed for help to come, but did God honestly think a trail-worn cowboy was what she needed? What’s more, Steve’s trail crew is dead-set against having a woman join their camp. He promises the men he’ll leave her at the nearest town…but Kitty just might have other plans.
Why This Book:
I have read and enjoyed Erica Vetsch’s writing before. Also, the premise intrigued me.
Opening Lines:
Steve Ketchum had heard it said that there were only two things on God’s green earth that cowboys were afraid of: being left afoot and a decent woman, and he believed it.
First Impressions:
The humorous opening line was amusing and within the first page to page and a half, I clearly understood how much depended on the success of this cattle drive. I immediately connected with the hero and wanted to see him succeed.
Main Characters:
Steve Ketchum – A good man trying to do the right thing under more-than-challenging circumstances. His incredible patience and vulnerability combined with his determination and strength make him a fantastic hero.
Catherine “Kitty” Fareholm – A woman making the best of a nightmarish situation. Many women would fall to pieces when faced with Kitty’s circumstances, but not this woman. She not only keeps it together, she advocates for herself and her child without growing self-centered. Kitty’s emotional strength, intelligence, and kindness toward others make her a heroine to root for.
Emotional Engagement & Pacing of the Story:
I was engaged from page one and during the times when I reluctantly put it down to do those “adulting things,” I kept thinking about these characters. I couldn’t wait to get back to the story and find out what happened next.
Elements I especially liked/disliked:
Beyond the relationship between the hero and heroine, the reader gets to enjoy the unique dynamics of a bunch of cowboys thrown together at the last minute. There are sweethearts and troublemakers in the bunch. And then there’s the hero’s younger brother who has a chip on his shoulder and isn’t making life any easier for the hero.
Theme:
God’s plans are not always in line with our plans.
Ending:
Thoroughly satisfying and chock-full of laughs.
Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 stars
Let’s chat!
Have you read any of the books in the Pleasant Gap series? What do you think it means to be courageous?
TWEETABLES:
You won’t want to “adult” when you have this book calling your name!
This sweet adventure romance will keep you turning the pages long past bedtime!
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Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author, but was NOT required to write a positive review. You may read my full disclosure of materials HERE.
I haven’t yet read any of the books in the series. After reading your review, I think I need to correct that!
Let me know how you like them! 🙂