At Love's Command (Hanger's Horsemen Book #1)

Karen Witemeyer

Jun 2020 · Hanger's Horsemen Book 1 · Baker Books

About this ebook

Haunted by the horrors of war, ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries known as Hanger's Horsemen who have become legends in 1890s Texas. They defend the innocent and obtain justice for the oppressed. But when a rustler's bullet leaves one of them at death's door, they're the ones in need of saving.

Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men taking one look at her skirts and discounting her medical skills. What she's not used to is having a man change his mind in a heartbeat and offer to assist her in surgery. Matthew Hanger's dedication to his friend during recovery earns Josephine's respect, and when she hears of her brother's abduction, he becomes her only hope for rescue.

Matt has stared down ruthless outlaws, betrayal, and injury, but when a bossy lady doctor crawls under his skin, his heart is tempted to surrender. And when she is caught in the crossfire, he may have to sacrifice everything--even his team--to save her.

Ratings and reviews

At Love's Command Hanger's Horsemen #1 By Karen Witemeyer Matthew Hanger and his men are ex-cavalry and they have survived the horrors of war. Together they are known as Hanger's Horsemen and they hire themselves out to help the innocent when Texas's lawless run rampant. They have been hired to stop rustlers who are causing no end of grief in Purgatory Springs. But when one of his men takes a bullet Matthew knows help must be swiftly procured. Fortunately for Hanger's Horsemen, Purgatory has Dr. Joe practicing. What Matthew didn't expect was Dr. Joe to be a beautiful, stubborn woman. But Dr. Josephine Burkett is more than competent in her work at saving Wallace's life. And he never expected anyone to touch his heart the way Josephine Burkett has done. The rustlers that the Horsemen have been hired to stop, aren't about stop anytime soon. Worse they seem intent on taking down the Burkett family. Josephine's brother Charlie is taken by the rustlers and a ransom is demanded of their father. Josephine turns to Matt and his men to help her bring her brother home. When their rescue goes wrong, Matthew is left with a decision that he never thought he'd be in - one that finds his head and heart at odds with one another. At Love's Command is the first book in a new series by Karen Witemeyer. This book is a historical romance and is set in 1890s Texas. The writing is excellent as the characters have several facets that make them more than mere words upon the page. The pacing is good, no lagging so interest never wavers. There is a little violence but overall I would say that this is a gentle, clean read. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and wouldn't mind making a return trip to visit with them again in the future. I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion all thoughts expressed are my own.

At Love’s Command is the first in the Hanger’s Horsemen series by Karen Witemeyer. I have been impatiently waiting to hold this book in my hands since Karen discussed her ideas about the story on her fan page. And I have to say after reading this first installment, I don’t think I’ve ever looked forward to the rest of a series more. Karen continues to deliver phenomenal inspirational stories time and again. I love her use of scripture in her writing, and I fall in love with her characters every time. At Love’s Command is no exception! I loved Dr. Jo from the very beginning. Her grit. Her heart. And especially her ability to identify an admirable/handsome man and stand with him during battle. Her vocabulary had me laughing out loud more than once as she crossed proverbial swords with Matt. What fun! Oh, and then there’s the legendary Matthew Hanger. Sigh. Such a good man through and through. And while his roughened exterior is attractive enough, it’s his struggle to surrender everything to the Lord that makes him a true hero. Be prepared to lose your heart. (And gain an extra book boyfriend!) Then, there are The Horsemen. What a group! Each one with their own distinct personalities that complement each other so well. I can’t wait to get to know Preach, Wallace and Brooks even better with the rest of the series. I can only imagine the adventures that await! One of my favorite things about this book is Preach and his penchant for remembering the perfect scripture for any situation. The verses he chose not only provided peace to The Horsemen, but to my hectic life as well. I’m grateful for authors who chose to use the Word of God instead of shy away from it. If you are a fan of Christian historical romance you will adore this book, especially if you are overly fond of western settings. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Karen Witemeyer never disappoints! She is a master at writing a well-crafted story with engaging characters, historically accurate settings and thoughtfully integrated faith lessons. Her books make you want to keep reading, and when you are done you only want more. At Love’s Command, book one in her new Hanger’s Horseman series is no exception! At Love’s Command is the first in a new series and introduces a unique band of mercenaries called Hanger’s Horseman. The Horsemen are four ex-cavalry officers whose experiences at the tragedy of Wounded Knee caused them to decide that “killing is off the menu.” They champion the cause of justice and avoid taking lives as much as possible. In At Love’s Command God brings together two wonderful people, who both decided that romantic love just wasn’t for them. Little did they dream of the plans God had in store. Even after they meet, their path to romance is far from smooth, but their journey helps them learn to trust and surrender to God and one another, which is just what these two stubborn and independent individuals needed. In addition to the lovely romance between Matthew Hanger and Dr. Josephine Burkett this book also introduces the supporting characters, who will feature in the rest of the series. They are Matt Hanger’s Horsemen and his family, the charming young Mark Wallace, fiercely loyal Luke “Preach” Davenport and stoic Jonah Brooks. I, for one, am looking forward to seeing how love will come to each of these men and ‘meeting’ the ladies who will be their happily ever after. I received an early copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed here are my own.

About the author

Voted #1 Reader's Favorite Christian Romance Author of 2019 by Family Fiction Magazine, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. She makes her home in Abilene, Texas, with her husband and three children. Learn more about Karen and her books at www.karenwitemeyer.com.