Range War Bride

Reviewed by Trang Blackl © 2006

Wild Child Publishing.com © 2006

Title: Range War Bride
Author: Brenda Williamson
Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press
Genre: Historical Torrid Romance
ISBN Number: (E) 1-59374-661-1
ISBN Number: (P) 1-59374-663-6
Release date: August 2006

As the daughter of a Russian immigrant farmer, Danika Stanislaus' life is hard. She escapes from the daily toil by reading dime novels of handsome cowboys and the women they love. When a cowboy who seemingly stepped out of one of her books rescues her during a stampede, she shows no restraint and blatantly accepts the kisses he offers. Even when she discovers he is a member of the Sage Creek Cattlemen's Association, the outfit trying to drive them off of their land, she's still attracted to him. The more time she spends with him, the more she realizes she wants Alex... but what exactly does Alex want? Her or her family's land?

Alex McClaric doesn't know what to make of the beautiful foreigner he met while trying to stop a stampede. His attraction to Danika is immediate and even knowing it's wrong, he can't help but give her a sensual kiss when she's injured. Circumstances force Alex to offer his assistance... but will Danika accept?

Danika is a headstrong young woman; although she works hard, she's also the spoiled only daughter in a large protective family. Her secret wish to meet a cowboy is granted unexpectedly, but this girl is not one to pass up any opportunity. She sees what she wants and goes after it. And what she wants is Alex. Alex is a little shocked at this beautiful young woman and her passion, but he can't resist her. He wants Danika but not the commitment he knows she deserves. Their relationship moves along quickly, especially after the awful circumstances surrounding the death of Danika's family members. Both of these stubborn people must learn to acknowledge their feelings for each other and come to terms with them.

Range War Bride is an intense story full of struggle and strife as well as a lot of sexual tension. The two main characters are well developed and likable whereas the secondary characters seem to be glossed over. Yet they fit quite nicely into the flow of the story. I do wish the conflict between Danika and Alex regarding their relationship was more fully developed, as well as the story behind the range wars. The whole 'to marry or not to marry' scenes seemed rushed and left me wanting to know more. In addition, the range war aspect was not addressed at all, and I really feel that would have added to the story, especially as it was an integral part of why Danika and Alex get together. Fortunately, the sexy, hot passion between these two more than made up for that. Range War Bride is an enjoyable, easy to read story that definitely delivers. Enjoy!

Rating: 4 Cats

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To find out more about how to purchase Range War Bride, visit Whiskey Creek Press.