Another book in the popular Martin's Crossing series of
contemporary western romances by Brenda Minton, sounded
very appealing. This author has also written the Cooper's
Creek series and many other westerns. HER GUARDIAN
RANCHER gives the flavor of her responsible characters right
from the title.
Daron McKay lives on a small ranch outside Martin's
Crossing. Daron has returned from military service and gone
into business with a few friends, despite the frowns of his
attorney father. Emma Shaw, a neighbour, doesn't think she
needs his bodyguard service. But swinging a baseball bat at
meth addicts can be tiring. How did life in Texas Hill
Country become so complicated?
Emma is an admirable lady. She's widowed, her husband died
in combat, and has a little girl with a heart
condition, plus a grandfather to care for. When not working
the cattle or waitressing, Emma is taking a college course to
aim for a better job. Now her granddad, aged eighty, is
having problems driving. Her tack store is raided, and
her daughter needs hospital care. Emma is used to being
strong for
everyone and keeps pushing Daron away. However, teamwork
can be better than she realises.
Daron is among the people in the area who are first
responders to accidents and fires. I wasn't keen on the way
that various others of the team are continually described
as 'the first responder' when a term like medic or EMT
would do, or a name. But maybe that is how they say it in
Texas. Daron, an amiable guy, hangs around Emma mainly
because he promised his army buddy that he'd look out for
her. How long is enough? Three years? Emma's brother-in-law,
Pete, is also hanging around because he reckons Emma has a
share of money that should be his. Daron wants to keep her
safe, but he can't interfere in her life if she won't let
him.
At one point Emma's old truck breaks down and her phone is
out of charge. I'll just mention a simple phone charger
that works off the car cigarette lighter. Ladies, it's a
good investment. Emma finally decides to pray about her
sinking life, and decides to let go her pride. Gradually.
Her family needs help, even if she doesn't. This gently
inspirational tale HER GUARDIAN RANCHER will lift your
spirits and the romance is suitable for any reader.
A Soldier's Promise Three years ago Daron McKay made a vow to his dying army buddy: watch over his wife, protect his child. But he never imagined he'd fall in love with mom and baby. Now as Emma Shaw barely hangs on to her ranch and her daughter faces lifesaving surgery, the cowboy bodyguard is determined to see his promise through. But Emma doesn't want a hero. Especially one riddled with guilt. She'll make it on her own, just like she always has. With Emma, Daron faces his most difficult assignment: showing the battle-scarred widow that letting go makes you stronger—and that loving is worth the risk…