When Alex’s mother died 10 years ago, her father, the town doctor for years, started drowning his sorrow in alcohol. Luckily, Alex had become a doctor and was able to cover for him even though his drunkenness was not a secret. Brett and Alex had been a couple until 12 years ago when he received a letter from her saying she didn’t want to be with him anymore; she also received a letter from him telling her that a marriage between the two would never work. Both had been heartbroken and still bore grudges. Therefore, when Brett returned to take over the ranch he had won in a poker match, there was a lot of tension between the two, especially when he constantly was being injured and required her assistance.

The supporting characters in this book included an in-depth look at his family’s relationship with each other and Brett’s reluctance to accept their help. The feelings between Brett and Alex reignited and her father was not the only one who was upset about them together. A prominent rancher, King Dawson, was not only obsessed with obtaining the ranch that Brett was refurbishing; he was resolute that Alex was going to be his third wife.

Ms. Williamson has done an extraordinary job of telling this story with a myriad of problems to be encountered. The problems of hired guns, murder, manipulation and unrequited love are just some of the tribulations. I was intrigued with this nail-biting story and could not put it down. It is an exhilarating look at the Old West and I recommend it highly!

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Explicit

Reviewer: Brenda Talley
April 9, 2007